You Asked, and I Answered: The 7 Cult Buys That Make Up the Chicest Holiday Capsule

Summer holiday season is finally in full swing—and if my WhatsApp chats are anything to go by, the only thing more discussed than airport strikes is what everyone's packing. Whether it's a low-key Italian island or a long-haul hop to somewhere with guaranteed heat, July and August are peak escape months. And naturally, the collective mindset shifts into full vacation-mode—wardrobes included. This time of year always brings with it a fresh set of packing considerations, from easy-breezy daytime looks for wandering beach towns to polished yet effortless dinner outfits. There's something so satisfying about dressing for holiday, too—the freedom to lean into light layers, open backs, and basket bags is the signifier we've truly arrived (mentally and physically). The good news? This summer's cult buys don't feel trend-led for trend's sake—they're pieces that have built up longevity over recent seasons, so investing now feels smart. They've stood the test of time, which, frankly, is all I'm asking of my wardrobe.

When I find myself mentally styling outfits weeks before a trip (guilty), NET-A-PORTER is usually where I land—not only because it's reliably filled with the pieces I've been eyeing, but because it's one of the few sites that genuinely nails that crossover between polished holiday wear and pieces I know I'll rewear on home turf. I'm not someone who shops aimlessly or packs an entirely different personality for holiday. If I'm investing in something, I want it to work for impromptu dinners at home, September weddings, and weekend getaways well into next season. And that's where NET-A-PORTER’s new-in section continues to deliver, especially when it comes to summer staples like cotton dresses that don't crease on arrival, swimwear you can actually swim in, and sandals that look cool without being blister traps. It's the edit that always feels like it gets what I'm going for—considered, not costume-y.

So, what exactly am I reaching for this year? I've narrowed it down to seven standout categories that are shaping every stylish person's suitcase right now: throw-on Matteau dresses that hit the sweet spot between minimalist and impactful; Loewe basket bags that have become something of a passport stamp in bag form; A.Emery sandals that feel modern without veering into micro-trend territory; Hunza G swim that somehow suits everyone (yes, really); Celine sunglasses that prove sunglasses can do the heavy lifting in any outfit; staple summer denim from Agolde and comfy linen sets courtesy of Deiji Studios. Some of these pieces I already own in a different colourway from last year and can confirm they still feel relevant, while others are new-season additions that fit neatly into what I've already got. Ultimately, they all earn their place by working hard for me on holiday and long after the tan fades. Keep scrolling to see (and shop) my top picks from each.

Shop the 7 Chic Holiday Staples

1. The Dress Code: Matteau Dresses

Matteau's airy silhouettes are the kind of dresses I always regret not packing. They strike that ideal holiday note of looking like you tried without actually trying, and they can be styled up or down with a quick shoe switch.

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MATTEAU

Strapless Ruched Organic Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress

An elevated option that doesn't feel overly "evening." It’s one of those pieces that could work for a gallery opening or a barefoot dinner on the beach.

MATTEAU

Tiered Organic Cotton and Silk-Blend Midi Dress

Light as air and practically crease-proof. This fabric handled a whole suitcase-crush situation and still came out wearable.

MATTEAU

Shirred Organic Cotton-Poplin Mini Dress

The shirred is super flattering and helps keep things relaxed. I've seen a similar style worn over a bikini and later to dinner with leather sandals—versatility is key.

MATTEAU

Shirred Organic Cotton-Poplin Maxi Dress

I spotted someone wearing this dress at a beach wedding with stacked gold jewellery, and it looked incredible.

2. The Basket Bag Upgrade: Loewe

The Loewe basket has reached icon status for a reason. But what I love is how it keeps evolving while still feeling classic. It's no longer just a beach-day bag—it's an outfit-completer.

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LOEWE

+ Paula's Ibiza Anagram Medium Leather-Trimmed Woven Raffia Tote

The signature logo adds just enough detail without screaming "designer bag." I've had mine for two summers now, and it's only getting better with age.

LOEWE

+ Paula's Ibiza Leather-Trimmed Raffia Bucket Bag

I saw this exact style multiple times at the airport this past month. It's compact enough for dinners but still fits the essentials.

LOEWE

+ Paula's Ibiza Embroidered Raffia Tote

A slightly more structured shape for those who prefer a sharper silhouette. Also great if you're packing breakables—trust me.

LOEWE

+ Paula's Ibiza Puzzle Fold Medium Leather-Trimmed Raffia Tote

The puzzle shape has a sculptural quality that feels more directional. I'd wear it with a column dress and sandals for city breaks.

3. The Flat Sandal That Works: A.Emery

A.Emery sandals are the quiet heroes of my holiday wardrobe: minimalist enough to go with everything, structured enough to look considered. And crucially, they're actually comfortable.

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A.EMERY

Jalen Suede Sandals

This colourway is a softer alternative to black and feels a bit more summery. I've had the chocolate pair for two years, and they're still in perfect condition.

A.EMERY

Heidi Leather Sandals

I saw these on someone outside a gallery opening in Kuala Lumpur—she had them paired with a matte black pedicure and an oversized blazer. Sold.

A.EMERY

Edna Leather Sandals

A.EMERY

Flora Leather Flip Flops

These flip-flops have a modern feel but don't veer too far into editorial. I'd style them with loose trousers or a slip dress.

4. The Swimwear Staple: Hunza G

Hunza G is one of those rare brands that truly fits most bodies. It doesn't dig, it moves with you, and it dries quickly. Plus, the brand somehow keeps finding ways to reinvent its classic styles.

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HUNZA G

Seersucker Bikini

This flatters everyone. Genuinely. I've recommended it to three friends, and they all love it.

HUNZA G

Ruby Metallic Seersucker Bandeau Bikini

A great strapless option that actually stays up. A WWW editor wore this under a linen shirt dress for post-swim Aperols.

HUNZA G

Domino Embellished Metallic Seersucker Swimsuit

That crinkle texture is iconic now, and this mink colour is so chic.

HUNZA G

Sabrina Gingham Seersucker Bikini

A classic cut in a very 2025 print. I've seen it worn in Greece, Cornwall, even just sunbathing on the balcony—always a hit.

5. The Finishing Touch: Celine Sunglasses

Celine sunglasses do for outfits what good lighting does for selfies. Even if you've just thrown on denim shorts and a tee, these make your outfit feel intentional.

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CELINE EYEWEAR

Triomphe Oval-Frame Tortoiseshell Acetate Sunglasses

They're dramatic but not costume-y—perfect if you want something with presence.

CELINE EYEWEAR

Oval-Frame Rose Gold-Tone and Tortoiseshell Acetate Sunglasses

Softer, rounder edges that work especially well if you're into the whole coastal-grandma thing, which—let's be honest—we all flirt with now and again.

CELINE EYEWEAR

Cat-Eye Acetate Sunglasses

A modern twist on a classic shape. These are the sunglasses I always get compliments on, even from strangers.

CELINE EYEWEAR

Square-Frame Acetate Sunglasses

These give off low-key '90s supermodel energy. I pair mine with slicked hair and a white tank.

6. The No-Brainer Co-Ord: Deiji Studios Linen Sets

Matching sets might be everywhere, but Deiji Studios is doing something different. Their linen co-ords have an ease about them that makes getting dressed feel like less of a task and more of a mood. They work just as well for slow mornings on holiday as they do for warm city days when you still want to look pulled-together.

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DEIJI STUDIOS

The 03 Striped Washed-Linen Shirt and Shorts Set

Proof that linen doesn’t always have to mean pale tones. This stripped grey set feels elevated enough to wear to dinner with a red lip and simple mules.

DEIJI STUDIOS

Arch Tie-Detailed Paneled Striped Organic Cotton-Poplin Shirt

This and the matching trousers below are very PJ-core, and I'm all here for it.

DEIJI STUDIOS

Ease Striped Organic Cotton-Poplin Pajama Pants

They would look so cute with a tank top too.

DEIJI STUDIOS

The 03 Washed-Linen Shirt and Shorts Set

The soft neutral tone is subtle but still feels fresh. I'd wear this with leather slides and a big pair of sunglasses for a 'don't talk to me until my coffee arrives' vibe.

7. The Cool-Girl Classic: Agolde Denim

Denim might not scream "holiday essential," but if there's one brand that's changed my mind, it's Agolde. Its summer cuts—breezy shorts, easy jeans and slightly oversized jackets—hit that rare sweet spot between relaxed and refined. I always end up bringing at least one pair of Agolde jeans on trips, whether I'm heading to a festival or layering up for an early morning flight.

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AGOLDE

'90s Crop Mid-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans

Crop jeans are having a moment, and this denim pair feels like the grown-up take. I'd pair them with a racer tank and flip-flops.

AGOLDE

Rhoda Pleated Organic Denim Shorts

A classic cut with just the right amount of edge thanks to the black wash. Reviews mention how soft the denim is—zero break-in time needed.

Agolde

Lotta Organic Denim Shirt

This slightly boxy jacket is the ideal throw-on for breezy evenings. I bought the light-wash version and have already layered it over slip dresses, linen sets, and swimsuits.

Agolde

Twist Low Slung Baggy jeans

These hit just the right point on the ankle. I've worn them with button-downs and bikini tops alike.