A Guide To Summer Resort Style

One of the best things about Australian summer style is the way we embrace relaxed resort-style dressing, even if we’re not actually on vacation. Whether you’re packing for a beach holiday or spending every weekend at your local swimming spot, having a few swimsuits that can be styled with the rest of your wardrobe will ensure you look effortlessly put together, even in the hottest weather. This summer, add a vacation feel to outfits with these key new season styles.

The versatile one piece

Swimwear is our unofficial summer uniform, and if there’s one thing you throw in your suitcase, this should be it. One piece swimsuits are ideal when swimming a few laps or frolicking in the waves, they exude effortless elegance when lounging by the pool, and when you’re out of the water, they can be worn as a bodysuit. Styled with linen pants or a floaty summer skirt, a one piece will double as a form-fitting tank top in your favourite silhouette — a square neckline, scoop neckline or asymmetric one shoulder style are timeless options.

The bikini

Wearing crop tops and bralettes visibly layered under an open shirt is a classic vacation look, so why not do the same with your swimwear? A bikini top styled with a striped poplin or linen shirt will create the impression you’ve just stepped off the sand while still feeling fresh, clean and modern. A crisp, slightly unbuttoned shirt is perfect for beach-to-bar styling and the addition of a triangle bikini or crop top worn underneath allows for spontaneous dips.

The denim short

Denim shorts are a summer staple, no matter what your destination. This is the piece you throw on whether you’re on a city break or travelling abroad, and you can be sure a pair of denim shorts will go with everything in your wardrobe, from poplin shirts to tees and tanks; leather sandals to casual sneakers. This season, opt for high waisted shorts inspired by vintage denim. Stonewash denim cut-offs are a classic summer style, or for a more clean finish, look to rolled hem shorts.

The beach shirt

An oversized shirt is a chic alternative to a beach cover-up. This season offers short sleeve shirts and long sleeve shirts with generous, breezy proportions that are designed to layer over swimwear. For a little extra coverage, complete the look with a pair of shorts and a rib tank. And if you usually stick to a classic white shirt during the week, the holidays are perfect time to try a billowing beach shirt in a striped pattern or summer colour.

The breezy skirt

A long linen skirt will prove to be one of the most versatile pieces in your wardrobe. It’s easy to throw on with a swimsuit if you’re headed to the pool or beach, but a maxi skirt is also made to wear to brunch with friends or relaxed dinners — simply elevate your outfit with a halterneck top or silk camisole. The key to achieving that breezy silhouette is a skirt designed with slits in the hem that create movement, and an elasticised waistband that will allow you to wear it for your most comfortable fit.

The linen slip dress

When you think of the ultimate beach dress, a relaxed linen slip almost certainly springs to mind. It has all the elements you need: Easy to pack? Tick. Even easier to throw on and style? Tick. Lightweight and laidback, a linen slip dress requires zero effort but will always look fresh and put together. This summer, choose a classic midi-length style that you can wear from dawn to dusk, or opt for a linen mini dress that feels cool and casual on hot summer days.

The summer occasion dress

Face hot summer weather in style in this season’s most beautiful occasion dresses. This is the piece to reach for when summer events, destination weddings and end-of-year celebrations fill your diary and you need a dress that feels easy to wear while looking elevated. A great summer occasion dress should also have a flattering silhouette designed with subtle, elegant details — think decorative trims or a beautiful neckline. Complete your occasion-ready look with a pair of minimal sandals that you can wear all day and dance in at night.