My 'one and done' found...kind of

As my trip edges closer I’ve been focussing on my summer travel wardrobe. As you’ll recall from last time the pressing dilemma was to find a casual dress to supplement my holiday uniform of boxer short and matching shirt sets -

My 'one and done' - will I ever find you?

Since airing my frustrations in that post I’ve gained some clarity on the issue. And as a result I’ve decided to stop looking for the elusive ‘one and done’.

Instead I’m going to look to other pieces to add depth and dimension. What pieces? A kaftan and a pair of shorts with a difference (for me at least).

Kaftan

Technically a kaftan is a dress but it’s one that has a specific purpose. To me its highest and best use is as a chic swimwear coverup.

Sometimes a kaftan is sheer and whilst this looks great it means it can’t be worn beyond that purpose.

I find that so many more possibilities open up when that isn’t the case. My own navy kaftan by Pippa Holt - which I’ve written about a lot - is a perfect example. I’ve had it for so long and live in it when I’m on holidays. Breakfast, beach, pool, shopping, dinner - it works in all scenarios.

I’ve thought about getting another one, mostly when I’ve been wearing it. With my dress dilemma unsolved and a coincidental flash sale, the timing for this seemed just right.

If you go onto the Pippa Holt website you’ll see they come in an incredible array of colours. I have to admit I was tempted in spite of my strong preference for neutrals. Maybe something vibrant to mix things up?

But then I came across this from

Angie Uh

in How To Avoid Shopping For A Fantasy Summer Wardrobe -

Our summer calendars are usually filled with a fun vacation or two and social events but do you tend to buy or pack for your fantasy self? Do you imagine yourself in a new locale and suddenly, you are “Vacation ME!” wearing things you normally wouldn’t ever wear at home?

I saw myself in those words and it really made me think. Maybe I’d be better off looking like myself rather than dressing to suit what I imagine the destination demands.

There are clear advantages in this approach. First I’m likely to feel more comfortable when wearing the piece in question. Second I’ll reach for it more than something that doesn’t quite align with my aesthetic. Third, if it doesn’t specifically scream ‘holiday’ it will be easier to wear at home. All of which adds up to getting more mileage from my purchase.

So - I’ll appreciate the gorgeous colours from afar and stick to what I know I’ll wear. Which means I’ve happily ended up with black.

Shorts with a difference

Shorts are my ‘go-to’ in summer.

The simplicity of a boxer style with its thick elastic waistband and generous cut is something that especially appeals to me. That said, different short silhouettes are also interesting.

Longer shorts are definitely enjoying a moment so after looking into them I’ve decided to head in that direction. There are lots of options - tailored, jean and pull on versions in a range of lengths from mid thigh to below the knee. And various leg widths from slim to generously proportioned.

I’ve gone with a jean style in white -

My new shorts from Agolde.

Why? I think they’re a bit more polished and summery than blue denim. And cooler and more relaxed than a lot of tailored versions. Fingers crossed my travel wardrobe is more interesting as a result.

And that’s it from me for now. I’ll see you in two weeks!

Jennie

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