A Fashion Editor's Guide to What to Pack for Barcelona
If there’s one thing I look forward to all year, every year, it’s a holiday. Whether that’s a UK staycation or a trip abroad, it’s the one thing I save up for and make sure to get booked as soon as possible. And while I love heading to new places and planning exciting things to do, I think we can all agree that sometimes, holiday planning can be a little stressful. Especially when it comes to packing. Right? Well, I've learnt this year that with the right prep, packing can be easy and dare I say, enjoyable.
Depending on where I go, what I take with me varies. If it’s a city break, I’ll predominantly tend to stick to comfier clothes such as linen trousers and trainers with a couple of maxi dresses for the evenings, however, if it’s more of a relaxing, beach holiday, my suitcase will be lined with bikinis, sandals and mini-dresses. This summer, I’m jetting off to Barcelona and whilst I’m there anticipate a mix of sightseeing and lounging on a beach. I’ll be taking practical yet light pieces with me, and utilising my accessories to make outfits feel different.
As much as I love to treat myself to new pieces for a holiday, I do always ensure they are pieces I will keep in my wardrobe for years to come. I focus on wardrobe staples that can be worn with other outfits at home, and when it comes to something like swimwear, I ensure to stick to pieces I know I’ll take away with me for years to come. White dresses, tailored shorts and strappy sandals are a definite on my packing list that will be coming with me to Barcelona, but will also see me through the British summer too.
Whether you're headed to Barcelona or another sunny spot for a holiday, let this list be your guide to your packing essentials.
A Fashion Editor's Guide on What to Pack for Barcelona:
1. Simple Swimwear
Style Notes: Whether you prefer a basic black bikini or a bold printed swimsuit, swimwear is an essential to take with you. My advice is to opt for silhouettes that you feel comfortable in, rather than what's trending, to ensure you go from beach to bar seamlessly.
Shop the Look:
& Other Stories
Textured Triangle Bikini Top
A basic black bikini is so chic.
ZIMMERMANN
Coco Cutout Bikini
Zimmermann always creates the most beautiful pieces.
Away That Day
Cannes One Piece
Away That Day is one of my ultimate favourite swimwear brands.
JOHANNA ORTIZ
Coral Reef Cutout Twist-Front Recycled Halterneck Swimsuit
The perfect black one piece.
2. Statement Cover-Up
Style Notes: Finish off your swimwear look with an equally chic cover-up option. Whether it’s a printed sarong (that is so versatile with how you tie it) or floaty kaftan, make an instant poolside statement.
Shop the Look:
4th & Reckless
Aura Abstract-Print Stretch-Woven Sarong
A chic sarong at an affordable price.
H&M
Pointelle-Knit Beach Dress
So easy to throw on over your swimwear.
Toteme
Monogram Cotton Beach Cover-Up
This monogrammed cover-up can easily pass as a dress for a day of exploring the local area.
Johanna Ortiz
Printed Organic Cotton-Voile Pareo
I love the soft pastel hues of this.
3. Tailored Shorts
Style Notes: No matter what type of holiday I’m going on, I always pack shorts. I much prefer a tailored short compared to a casual style as it just feels so much more elevated and put-together. They can be styled so many ways too, whether it’s with a racer vest, linen shirt or scarf top.
