Staycation in style with the best of British: Trips abroad are in peril. So capture the holiday mood with fabulous homegrown fashion
- Amy Kester shares a selection of items to pack for your summer staycation
- UK-based style expert suggests silk items for versatility in different seasons
- Recommends investing in cashmere cardigans for unpredictable weather
Are you joining the hordes holidaying on these shores this summer? Staying local isn’t confined to holidays, the fashion world is championing homegrown talent, too.
Here’s what to pack for the perfect summer staycation wardrobe — while flying the flag for the best of British brands...
Amy Kester shared advice for effortless style throughout summer, while flying the flag for British brands. Pictured: Monroe bikini in hydrangea, £129, samantha sage.com
1 Summer silks
Founder Stephanie Beard has travelled the world collecting silks to use in her clothing brand, Silked London.
She found classic pieces offered the versatility she desired in her wardrobe, adapting to different seasons, climates and social occasions.
Championing English production, everything is made in London from 100 per cent sustainably sourced silk. Her summer collection — including simple camisoles (£165), skirts (£280) and slip dresses (£400) in either black, royal blue and oyster — will inspire you to dress up this holiday even if you’re campervanning in the wilds of Cumbria.
Feeling the chill? Shrug her luxurious kimono (£400) on top.
2 Yes, you still need a cardie
Cashmere cropped cardigan, £245, broraonline.com
As you can’t depend on the weather, it’s worth investing in a cashmere cardigan. Brora has one of the best selections —from a long-line style in black, camel or light blue (£345) to this shorter mustard design — all made in Scotland. It doesn’t just do coverups. Many of its Liberty print jersey pieces are also made in the UK. The fabric provides a comfortable fit and is machine washable, plus it won’t crease in your bag.
Share this article
3 In the swim
Jerry Hall, Nigella Lawson and Helena Bonham Carter are all fans of British designer Samantha Sage — her halterneck one-pieces and on-trend high-waist bikini bottoms are brilliantly figure-flattering. Keeping her global footprint to a minimum, all her garments are made in England. The 1970s-style print on this deep V-neck swimsuit will lift your spirits even if you venture no further than your back garden.
4 Belt up
Leather double-wrap belt, £31.50, thewhite company.com
Whether you’re adding a belt to your favourite summer dress for a cinched-in look, or after a stylish woven style for your shorts, The White Company has some of the best — all leather ones are made in the UK by skilled craftsman.
5 Natural charm
British jeweller Alex Monroe is famed for his bumblebee, swallow and daisy designs, inspired by his childhood in the beautiful Suffolk countryside.
Each and every piece of his jewellery is handmade in England and involves as little impact on the environment as possible. This necklace will elevate a simple white tee.
6 Arm candy
Mulberry, the UK’s largest luxury leather goods maker has two factories in Somerset where more than 50 pc of its bags are made. This mini cross-body Portobello tote is the perfect size for essentials such as sun cream and sanitiser.
7 Finishing touch
A classic Panama suits everyone and there’s no better place to get yours than traditional British milliner Christys’ London. It imports the Panama hat hoods from Ecuador in the rough, coned shape then finishes them by hand in the UK.
There are seven variations, from the Royal Ascot Godolphin Panama to this black and natural weave, complete with pom pom detailing for a fun finish.
8 Bright sparks
The go-to brand for boardroom-ready officewear, Winser London’s summer collection is a surprise staycation hit. Whether you’re after bright shorts (what could be more mood-boosting than a beautifully cut, lemon yellow pair?) or an oversized shirt — both fully sustainable and made in London — this label ticks all the boxes.
Striped oversized shirt, £179 and silk shorts, £159, winserlondon.com
Comments 0
Share what you think
No comments have so far been submitted. Why not be the first to send us your thoughts, or debate this issue live on our message boards.
