Holidays are at the forefront of everyone’s attention at the moment.  Whilst we’re getting giddy thinking of sunset sessions, chilling out and spending time with the girls or a loved one we know it can be every fashionista’s worst nightmare trying to work out what to pack.

We’ve put our heads together and compiled a must-read list of the clothes you need to take on holiday with you this summer. There are a few essential items you’ll need in order to create this capsule wardrobe, and we’ve categorised them into three outfits to help when it comes to doing the suitcase cram.

City Slicker

Achieving a chic city look is easy; you just need a few staple items:

• Tailored city shorts
• A Fedora hat
• A loose fitting shirt
• Gladiator sandals
• Oversized tote

Tailored shorts are totally on trend at the moment (think Olivia Palermo) so opt for camel shades or crisp white colours as these will help enhance your tan. For your shirt, floaty materials will work best – cotton and chiffon are spot on but if you’re off somewhere really hot, it’s probably worth looking for a linen number. *top tip* To keep the look ‘au naturel’ choose mink or dusty pink hues.

And it doesn’t matter if you’re not headed to a culture capital; this look is transferable cross-continent – from Morocco to Marbella nothing beats smart, chic style for day wear.

Evening Elegance

Once the sun goes down it’s time to glam up your look. For your staple evening wear, pack the following:

• Maxi dress
• Midi dress
• Jumpsuit

In our opinion, you can never have too many maxi dresses to take on holiday. Versatile, graceful and the ultimate statement piece, they’re ideal for taking a look from beach to bar in a matter of moments.

If you want to exude a touch more sophistication and glamour then opt for a figure hugging midi number instead – bright Aztec prints are totally hot right now.

We’re also loving the Grecian goddess look, which is easily replicated in a white jumpsuit. It’s a classic, smart style that is sure to impress for a special meal out or cocktails with the girls. Team with gold bangles, heels and a clutch bag for 5* appeal.

Beach Babe

There’s no denying that swimwear has become an absolute style statement over the past few seasons. With elaborate cut-outs, decorative monokinis and more tassels than you can shake a stick at, beach fashion is at its best.

Pack:

• A patterned monokini
• A bikini
• Kaftan

A monokini is essential if you want to look bang on trend – we’re loving khaki coloured swimsuits with gold detailing as well as bright floral patterns that will really tip the trend scales. To avoid any awkward tan lines make sure you pack a standard bikini too (think nautical if you’re stuck for a design). If the sun gets too much, or you’re looking for something sleek to slip on walking to the pool then a kaftan is your best bet. Neon pops have proven to be the shade of the summer so why not try an azure blue or fiery orange cover up?

So, whether you’re raving it up at one of Croatia’s island festivals, making the most of it in Marbs or absorbing the splendour of a European city, keep this guide in mind when you’re packing – see you later luggage allowance!