The biggest change I’ve noticed in my approach to fashion in my 50th year on this beautiful planet is that instead of following trends, I work with my style. Choosing clothes that flatter me, give me confidence, and work hard for me.
I love the idea that age and shape are no obstacles to being confident, stylish and beautifully put together. I want it all: stylish, flattering, comfortable, and quality clothing. At this point in my life, I’m not willing to settle for less.
Balancing my job and everyday life means being on the move, and with that comes a lot of packing. I would say I’ve become something of a packing pro, and I wanted to share some of my top tips with you.
Packing wisely: Jasmine’s top 5 packing tips
Think about it. How many times have you come home from a holiday with half the contents of your suitcase unworn? Over the years, I’ve managed to streamline my packing. I prefer to stick to hand luggage as not only is it so much cheaper, it’s also sooooo much quicker getting through the airport at both ends!
1. Build a holiday capsule wardrobe
Capsule wardrobes are a great way to get the most out of every inch of your luggage. Grab your favourite, fun-loving pieces to act as the showstopper for every outfit — think patterned wide-leg trousers for a breezy day on a boat, a gorgeous kimono as your beach cover-up, or a floral maxi dress for an elevated dinner outfit.
Then, pack a few neutrals that work well with each of your statement items. Simple colours like white, black, grey, or beige are easy to mix and match, and classic fabrics like denim go with everything. Now you’ve got plenty of outfit combinations from just a few pieces. Finally, opt for some versatile accessories. Think sunglasses, a beach bag, or a sun hat.
Plus, to really maximise space, choose pieces with multiple uses. For example, a white linen shirt can double up as an easy, breezy beach cover-up during the day, or tucked into your favourite trousers for a sleek evening dinner look when the sun goes down.
2. Be smart with layers
Choosing your layering pieces carefully is another simple trick to make your luggage space go further. Look out for versatile pieces like sheer, long-line cardigans that can be worn over outfits, used as a beach wrap, or even repurposed as a blanket during the flight. Hats can also be a great alternative to packing pods; fill them with socks and other small items to stop them from becoming buried in your bag.
As an added tip, instead of folding these pieces up in your luggage, roll them small and stuff them into any gaps around the edges of your bag or suitcase. Not only will this free up room in the middle for larger clothing, but it also acts as a buffer to protect your valuables from accidental damage during check-in.
3. Use the ‘3x3’ packing formula
Thinking in threes is an excellent way to make sure you have everything you need to create outfits that work for whatever you’ve got planned on your trip. You’ll want three of everything. For relaxing strolls along the coastline and laid-back lunches at beachside bistros, three dresses (ideally one of each length: maxi, midi, and mini) and three pairs of sandals are a winning combination.
Or, if you’ve got something more active in mind, packing three tops and three pairs of trousers to be worn with a pair of walking shoes or trainers keeps you comfortable and stylish on the move.
You’ll also get bonus points if all of these pieces can be mixed and matched or styled differently for day and night wear. To keep your bag organised, separate each item of clothing into packing cubes.
4. Try the ‘weigh & wear’ technique
This tip is an oldie, but for good reason. It’s no secret that bulkier clothing takes up more space in your luggage, so wearing as many of these larger pieces as possible during the flight will help you get more out of your bag. If you’re travelling somewhere cold, plan your coat, knitwear, and even boots into your airport outfit, and do the same on the return journey home.
5. Pack double-duty accessories
The right accessories make all the difference when you’re throwing together your holiday looks, but when you’re trying to keep your packing light, finding pieces that work for multiple outfits is essential. Here are some suggestions to get you started:
Neutral jewellery - Simple pieces in classic shades of gold or silver can be mixed and matched to create endless combinations that enhance any outfit.
Classic sunglasses - You can’t go wrong with a simple pair of tortoiseshell-frame glasses that go with everything and give any look a style boost.
Simple bags - A handbag is vital for carrying around your essentials. Stick to neutral tones like black, white, or beige to match any outfit while you’re away.
Dressing for every destination
Living in Spain (the most popular holiday spot for Brits), you’d think life is just one long holiday… Now, don’t get me wrong, sometimes I have to pinch myself. Like when I’m watching the sunset whilst having a barbecue on the beach on a Friday night, glass of sangria in hand. But it’s not always like that.
The same everyday issues, obligations and responsibilities come with you wherever you live, so for me, it’s still important to take time out and have a holiday. Here are some of my favourites:
City Break: Barcelona
The look you’re going for here is stylish but not trying too hard. A bit of attitude and an urban edge will make your outfits stand out.
Dressing for city life, you can get away with being a bit adventurous and avant-garde. Neutrals with bright pops of colour are fitting for this vibrant Spanish city. Comfortable shoes are a must if you are sightseeing, and don’t forget to pack your swimsuit for the beach. Some iconic places of interest, such as Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, have a dress code, so you’ll need to be prepared to cover your shoulders.
I love versatile clothes that can go from day to night, so packing a flattering, floaty dress, light enough for the heat of the day, and pretty enough to wear in the evening, with practical pockets, would be a good move.
Active Holiday: Chamonix
Most known for winter sports, Chamonix is also a great destination in the summer for an active holiday. Here, the vibe will be Active-Alpine chic, where functional and comfortable clothing meets a touch of French “je ne sais quoi”.
For biking and hiking, you’ll need comfortable outdoor clothing or active wear. Appropriate shoes (what do you mean, wedges aren’t appropriate for the mountainside!?) are a must.
Wear shorts, cargo pants or cropped trousers, and comfy layers as temperatures can be changeable at altitude. Transform casual vests and T-shirts with a little “French tuck”, a simple trick where you tuck in just the front of the top, defining the waist and adding some shape to loose-fitting shirts, whilst feeling quite laid back yet elegant. It’s the clothing equivalent of a messy bun.
Exotic Holiday: Caribbean
When you are in a paradise location, you’ll want tropical glamour that looks effortless. Sounds tricky, but you can easily achieve this with flowy, breezy silhouettes, bright, clashing colours and statement jewellery.
Feeling comfortable and airy is key to your confidence, and there is no reason you can’t go from beach to bar in the same outfit. On a Caribbean beach, you won’t feel out of place in dressy sandals, big earrings, and gold accents to pair with your swimsuit. A stylish kaftan, big hat, sunnies and a natural basket bag will finish the look.
Colourful, bold prints work well, and you can bring the look right up to date with a coordinating wide-leg trouser and a satin-sheen shirt for extra glam on a glitzy night out. Plus, the bonus of protection from the mozzies!
UK Holiday: Isle of Wight
Many childhood holidays were spent on the Isle of Wight, and seaside-inspired outfits with island countryside charm are what we’re looking for.
We know we can’t rely on the weather when holidaying in the UK, so we plan for it, and pack for it, remembering to bring a cheery raincoat for the odd, inevitable shower. Stripy knits, reminiscent of a stick of rock, paired with jeans will give you a classic, layered, weather-ready outfit. Classic shapes will work better than high fashion in this context.
Think wide leg jeans, “English-rose” inspired floral prints, muted and neutral colour palette with a splash of Isle of Wight lavender. A pretty tea dress and soft knitwear will be a must for a quaint afternoon tea.
Culture and Beach Break: Greece
Let’s talk about colours first. The classic Greek aesthetic of blue and white print is timeless and feminine and will never go out of style. You’ll see it reflected in the buildings, the sea, and the sky. Add to this the olive greens, earth tones and sun-bleached, bright white of the landscape, and you won’t go far wrong.
Whilst many of the Greek Islands have their distinct flavour, I think Rustic and bohemian styles have a natural and understated elegance which works here. Include fresh linen, crochet accents and embroidery, which will suit the location down to the ground. Simple gold jewellery or accessories will finish off this time-honoured look.
