I'm a fashion editor, this is exactly what to wear if you DON'T want to look like a Brit abroad
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Packing for a summer holiday can be a stressful business. Best to take a jacket just in case? Are you really going to wear those heels? Will it be too hot for jeans? But – whether sunning themselves in Spain or galavanting in Greece – many holidaymakers ignore the one fashion rule that’s going to serve them best when it comes to looking chic – NOT dressing like a Brit abroad!
So, chuck out those trusty chinos, bin your ancient Bermuda shorts and follow my guide to dressing like a stylish local...
Greece
Greece has enough ancient ruins, don’t let your summer wardrobe be another one.
Instead, why not take your colour palate inspiration from the national flag and those blue and white blue domed churches of Santorini that every influencer wants in their selfies?
This striking blue and white two piece by Paolita will take you from a day time shopping trip to a night time taverna and get you noticed in all the right ways. The label’s founder Anna-Paola was raised in Athens and her heritage shines through in her unique designs.
Footwear? It has to be Anceint Greek sandals. The family run business handmake all their shoes in Greece and this braided leather pair will elevate any floaty summer dress. If you’re looking to accessorise, London and Athens based brand YSSO have the perfect sculpted jewels to polish off your look.
Italy
Hopefully you’ll know not to embarrass yourself by asking for an ‘Expresso’ coffee or pineapple on your pizza – but what about your wardrobe?
From Prada and Gucci to Dolce and Gabbana, Italy is home to some of the finest luxury fashion houses in the world.
La DoubleJ, an Italian brand known for their colourful and vibrant flair aren’t cheap but it’s worth splurging on their more affordable accessories if you want to make a statement. This Pucci-esque silk scarf would perfect for wrapping around your hair when driving in an open roof cinquecento or – if you’re brave enough – on the back of a Vespa. You don’t have to compromise on comfort when it comes to Scarosso’s shoes. Their handmade, premium Italian leather sliders are easy to pack and will work with every outfit.
Feeling a bit anxious about your bikini? Never fear, Italian brand Calzedonia have you covered with this cool linen beach shirt.
Spain
They may not have as many famous fashion houses as their French and Italian neighbours, but the Spanish are no slouches in the style stakes. For too long the poor locals have had to suffer badly dressed Brits – so why not switch things up by looking more sparkling and cool than a glass of ice cold cava?
Brand Maria de la Orden have made statement ruffles their trademark, a stylish way to incorporate a little flamenco flair.
Everyone knows about Zara but fewer people are familiar with their grown up sister brand, Massimo Dutti. This long pleated cotton wrinkle-proof dress will pack well and is perfect for creating a little Ibizan boho glam. As for shoes, it has to be espadrilles! Spanish brand Castaner have been in business for nearly 100 years, their hand-made espadrilles will not only add the finishing touch – they’ll last a lifetime too.
France
Timeless, glamorous and so fabulously chic, French women are world famous for their effortless style – so the last thing you want is to or look like a frightful frump on your French holiday.
Instead, take a lesson from a local and learn that you can’t go wrong with classic print, like this one from Sezane that will look great tucked into shorts or a well-cut pair of jeans (French women love their jeans!) A puff sleeve blouse is also wearable year round and instantly dresses up a pair of denims.
You’ll need fancy footwear to match too, as Coco Chanel famously said ‘a woman with good shoes is never ugly,’ These woven ballet flats from Bobbies could get Coco’s seal of approval.
Blending in with the locals means no horrible headgear, like an oversized straw hat. Instead, opt for a less conspicuous baseball cap in a muted colour from ba&sh – team it with oversized sunglasses, et voila!
