How to: Pack for a mini-break, in association with StylePilot
By Will Stroude
We’re finally realising that long haul isn’t always the answer, and that we have a multitude of holiday options right on our doorstep. Hollywood always sends their stars to mainland Europe – the epitome of romance and old-world glamour – and with so much scope, StylePilot are helping us to pick out the key items you shouldn’t board the Eurostar without.
It’s been all about the turtle neck on the catwalk for the past few seasons, and if you’re heading somewhere as chic as Paris, this is how it’s done. Pop a mac or peacoat over the top and go for a muted, more sophisticated colour – very grown-up, very Jude Law in The Talented Mr Ripley.
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Roll neck top by Boohoo, £7 at stylepilot.com 2. Roll neck wool jumper by Tommy Hilfiger, £55 at stylepilot.com 3. Black selected homme roll neck jumper by Topman, £25 at stylepilot.com
Whether you’re dining out in Berlin, going to the ballet at Palais Garnier in the 9th Arrondissement or the opera in Rome , it’s a good idea to take something formal. A black suit is a versatile winner for any formal situation: you can’t go wrong with a classic.
1. Convent Garden Black tailored fit satin edge suit by Moss Bros, £99 at stylepilot.com 2. Tailored fit satin notch lapel by French Connection, £249 at stylepilot.com
If you have your suit, don’t trip up with the finishing touches. Simple and classic is all you need for this one.
1. Black heathcote calf leather Oxford shoes by Oxford, £185 at stylepilot.com, 2. Black flemming Oxford shoes by Oxford, £99 at stylepilot.com 3. House of Hounds black Oxford shoes by Topman, £80 at stylepilot.com
You’ll be travelling light, so your bag won’t just be just the holdall luggage for your flight: you’re going to be carrying it out and about all weekend. Whatever your destination, choose your bag wisely. Picking a rucksack or a holdall with plenty of security is important, but it doesn’t hurt to make it look pretty: hand luggage doesn’t have to be dull.
1. DRJONES bright canvas holdall by Ted Baker, £80 at stylepilot.com 2. Abingdon laptop bag by J. Crew, £98 at stylepilot.com 3. Tote bag by Penfield, £35 at stylepilot.com
Planning on a dip in a geothermal spa in Reykjavik, a traditional bath house in Budapest or a city beach trip while in Barcelona? Well, you’re going to need some swimwear for this: Make sure you have your bases covered and pack something that can get wet, as you never know when you might need them. Why not pick a vibrant print – you’re on your holiday after all.
1. South America shortie swim shorts by Oil & Boiler, £40 at stylepilot.com 2. Blue tribal swim shorts by French Connection, £16 at stylepilot.com 3. Teal printed swim shorts by Lacoste, £70 at stylepilot.com 4. Gustavia St. Barth swim shorts byMC2 Saint Bartha, £75.99 at stylepilot.com
Visit stylepilot.com to work out your own style DNA and find the best fits and colours for you.