Fashion: Hot for summer

By Michiko Hylands

Spy.co.nz·

20 Dec, 2015 02:00 AM4 mins to read

Find the perfect outfit for your summer break.

Refresh your wardrobe with these stylish holiday essentials.

Finally, summer holidays are here and it's time to kick back after another hectic year. Whether you're off to a glam resort or simply taking the kids to the beach, the main thing to do is relax.

The warmer weather calls for simple dressing. Elevate your style with these must-have holiday staples and ease yourself into a long, hot summer.

Join the jet set in Trelise Cooper's You're Not My Stripe dress. Simply throw on this kaftan-inspired number and your look is instantly transformed into true resort style. This pretty floral dress will take you to the beach and beyond.

Keep things playful with a playsuit, a practical option when you want to have fun in the sun. Seed Heritage's printed jumpsuit epitomises comfortable dressing for those long, cruisy days off.

Staple + Cloth's floaty, easy-to-wear Wave dress is carefree clothing at its beautiful best. Simply team with gladiator sandals and you're ready for cocktails beside the pool.

Add a nautical touch to your summer wardrobe with Hideseekers' striped Dreamweavers dress. This boho-inspired number will be a perfect addition to your getaway wardrobe.

Go off-duty and slouch into Country Road's printed Harem pant and essential halter tank. You'll be sure to beat the heat in this cool offering. Pair with a raffia beach bag and sandals and you're all set for a stylish and relaxed summer.

Karen Walker's Boating dress personifies laid-back luxe. The whimsical bold daisy print keeps the mood light and fresh and you can slip on some heels and dress it up for an evening soiree.

Looking the part when you are on holiday is a breeze with Tigerlily's strapless, broderie anglaise Balchick matching top and skirt.

This chilled-out outfit is perfect for those apres-swim moments - and crisp white is a perennial summer staple.

Outfits from left:

Trelise Cooper You're Not My Stripe Dress $729

Seed Heritage printed jumpsuit $119.99

Staple + Cloth Wave dress $249

Hideseekers Dreamweaver tank dress $198

Halter top $89.90
Printed harem pants $109
Drew braided sandal $89.90
Rope handle bag $169
All from Country Road

Boating dress $450
Hollywood Pool frames $369
All from Karen Walker

Balchick top $199.95
Balchick skirt $249.95
All from Tigerlily

The Lineup:

Next year is looking even brighter thanks to Gorman's Zissou frames. They bring back the glam and add an instant cool factor to any outfit.

Don't forget to take care of your skin after all that time spent in the sun. My go-to skin saviour is Pure Fiji's Exotic Bath and Body Oil in Coconut, which nourishes and moisturises.

A large beach tote is the only bag you will need for a busy summer's day out, and Witchery's neutral Stacie tote is the perfect poolside companion.

A metallic sandal will add a bit of glitz to even the simplest outfit. Kathryn Wilson's Pearson sandal will lift any beach ensemble.

Don't forget to pack your swimsuit. Unleash your wild side with Zulu and Zephr's Sun Dazed Bralette bikini.

And of course a simple summer hat is an absolute necessity to keep you sun smart.
For a chic update, French Connection's Wide Brim Tassle trim hat ticks all the boxes.