From where to go, to what to pack – here are our 12 top tips to summer in style
Words by Holly Swayne
Your vacation inspiration starts here. We’re counting down the top travel trends of 2017 – from need-to-know fashion tips to the hottest destinations and hotels on our radar, as well as some insider recommendations from luxury travel site Mr & Mrs Smith.
Swimwear takes a sporting direction
Think scuba fabrics, bright colour blocking and chunky zips, as athleisure labels Duskii, P.E Nation and Zeus+Dione take centre stage.
Nature meets luxury
Recommended by Mr & Mrs Smith: New Zealand’s opulent Annandale retreat is a dream for wildlife sightings – expect dolphins, blue penguins and fur seals to name a few. Or try Awasi Patagonia’s 12 chic cabins and stay among the awe-inspiring wilderness of Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.
Beach accessories get conceptual
Straw hats with pom-poms, bags in the shape of sculptural pots and state-of-the-art sandals: designers from Rosie Assoulin to Paloma Barcelo take an inventive approach.
Cuba is the ‘bucket list’ destination
Fidel Castro’s passing last year means there is fresh impetus to visit the Caribbean island before it changes forever. A bright palette will complement its vivid plastered walls perfectly.
Ruffles pack so perfectly
No matter how good your packing skills (it’s about rolling, never folding), creases are an unhappy eventuality. Pick architectural ruffles that will hold their shape.
Hire an island (yes, it’s possible)
The newly opened Voavah is the Four Seasons’ first exclusive-use private island in the Maldives, complete with spa, 3 pools and a staff of 28. On the packing list? A suitcase of tropical bikinis.
Opt for a city staycation
Be a tourist in your own town by booking the attractions you’ve never had time to see, but always wanted to – best styled out in sharp (heat-friendly) tailoring.
Eco-hotels are on the rise
China's first carbon-neutral hotel, Urbn, boasts tree-laden balconies and luxurious hemp furnishings, while the Rosemont Hotel in Dubai will house 7,000sqm of artificial rainforest.
The more embroidery the better
But not just on little details… Look for it (it won’t be hard to find) splashed all over dresses, swimwear, jumpsuits, sandals and bags.
Take a swim with a view
Recommended by Mr & Mrs Smith: Bathe in the infinity pool at Bali’s Alila Ubud hotel and enjoy panoramic views across the rainforest, or opt for unbeatable sunsets and volcanic scenery from the rooftop tub of Greece’s Grace Santorini hotel.
The aviator makes a comeback
Current iterations are bringing everything from classic black through to sunset ombre and cool blues and greens back into the spotlight, so coordinate yours with beachwear.
Look to Brazil for sizzling style
The country is generating a new wave of noteworthy vacation labels. Try Isolda’s outré fruit prints, or Osklen for swimwear with an edge.
Mr & Mrs Smith is exclusively offering all Farfetch customers $100* off a 3-night hotel stay. Book now at mrandmrssmith.com using code FARFETCHTRAVEL.
Offer valid until 31st August 2017. Only applicable to first time bookers and not valid when combined with other promotions.
*Or equivalent amount in your currency