“What do I wear?” It’s the first thing you think after you’ve booked up your perfect wellness escape in some dreamy location. Knowing what to pack, whether it’s for a week or weekend, can always be tricky—but this is where holiday staples come in handy. For our monthly fashion fix, Compare Retreats’ founder Dervla Louli chats to Jo Ellison, the witty and opinionated Financial Times fashion editor, to find out her favourite resort wear and pieces she never travels without.
Whether she’s walking around Paris in an androgynous suit during fashion week or chilling out in ‘dad shorts’ on holidays, her style is very real and doesn’t take fashion too seriously. When asked about her about her favourite resort-wear labels, she said, “I tend to look like a PE teacher on holiday.” She’s kind of right—but somehow it works. Here’s everything the editor who has the fashion world hanging onto her every word packs in her holiday suitcase. Don’t let the Velcro strappy sandals surprise you—we have a feeling they’re making a comeback.
James Perse T-Shirts
These flattering and fitted slub cotton-jersey T-shirts are specially designed to look worn in. Stock up on them in every colour here and donate your other T-shirts to the nearest charity shop, you won’t need them anymore—I ordered three after Ellison told me she lives in them, and I’ve neglected every other T-shirt in my wardrobe since.
Teva Sandals
Ellison’s summer snaps in her trusty Teva sandals are a throwback to every 90s kid’s summer holidays—I’d never thought about them again until I spotted her sporting them on Instagram. She’s probably the only person who can pull these off and make them look ironic, however, if you’re tempted to try the throwback trend on for size you can pick up a pair here.
Prism Swimwear and Dresses
If there’s one brand you add to your resort repertoire from this list, make it Prism. Ellison swears by their elegant and wearable swimwear and dresses. I’m a little obsessed with their animal print swimsuits, cropped pants, shorts and glasses. They also have matching sets for mums and kids. Check out Prism online here.
Paula’s Collection For Loewe
Remember Loewe’s cult raffia leather-trimmed tote that caused quite a stir this summer? Well, Ellison’s a fan and saves Paula’s Loewe collection for when she “wants to look flash”. The crepe midi dresses and straight-leg jeans will never go out of style and are perfect for endless summers. Shop the collection here.
