insideKENT Magazine Issue 28 - July 2014 | Page 119

HOLIDAY FASHION ESSENTIALS With temperatures starting to rise and the kids out of school, we’re taking a look at some of the hottest summer trends available at House of Fraser, Bluewater, to help you prepare for your holidays. In addition, Bluewater’s personal stylists, Clare Watson and Bianca Faber from Miss Dress have provided some handy tips and tricks for packing that perfect suitcase! If you’re heading down to Bluewater to pick up your travel essentials, why not make a day of it with free parking and a selection of top restaurants. Check out bluewater.co.uk for the latest offers. Aztec Shorts £55, Farah at House of Fraser Jacquard Floral Shift Dress £170, Sportmax Code at House of Fraser Biba Athena Triangle Bikini Top (£25) and Athena Tie-Side Brief (£18), Biba at House of Fraser Floral ‘Mindy’ Tote Bag £35, Therapy at House of Fraser Yellow Logo Swim Shorts £53, Polo Ralph Lauren at House of Fraser Straw Trilby £22, Howick at House of Fraser House of Fraser, Bluewater, 01322 374000 MISS DRESS’S TIPS ON PACKING THE PERFECT SUITCASE • Before you even start thinking about what to wear whilst away, it is always important to do your homework and check online to find out exactly what the weather is going to be like at your destination in order to pack the right type of clothing. • Rather than emptying the entire contents of your wardrobe into your case, think about exactly how many outfits you need for your time away. Do you seriously need a complete change for every evening of your hols? • Save space and rather than pack bulky knits to cover up for cool evenings, opt for a selection of brightly coloured pashminas that work with the colours of items you have packed. They are inexpensive and besides looking chic with any outfit, brights will also compliment a great tan! Throw one in your bag for the plane to add a touch of glamour to wrap around yourself once the chilly air-con kicks in rather than using one of the in-flight ‘institute style’ blankets. • Always pack a mini SOS kit for any type of clothes crisis abroad that consists of a few safety pins, double sided tape, and a small pack of baby wipes. They are the three top quick fixes to any problem from falling hems, to slippy straps, to spot stains. • Rather than packing a separate selection of items for the beach/pool and then bar/restaurant, opt to pack slightly dressier smart casual tops and just a few good key basics as they are far more flexible to transform from sunset to sunrise with the right accessories and bottoms. Too many casual vests and tshirts and likewise evening tops waste valuable space and weight when guaranteed the majority never get worn. • Essential holiday pieces that work for any sundrenched destination should always include a good kaftan. Not only is it this season’s must have item, but it is so versatile for transforming from beachwear to party wear if you choose one that has a little decorative embellishment and team with a classic pair of white wide leg linen trousers. Also the one-shouldered swimsuit is the ultimate beach look; far more forgiving than a bikini and flattering on any shape or size. • A large 70’s style wide brimmed straw hat is another excellent holiday staple. Besides the sun protection benefit, they are great for anyone who feels slightly self conscious about having their body on display poolside, as the size of the hat will not only add proportion but also distracts from any body hang-ups. See something you like? Why not use Bluewater’s simple and easy click and collect option? Visit bluewater.co.uk for more details. 119