As a fashion editor, my wardrobe is my playground. Every day, I mix pieces that can take me from meetings to after-work drinks with ease, but when it’s holiday time, I kick it up a notch. The first thing I look for are pieces that’ll work for holidays but at home too, and which I know I’ll want to wear year after year—I’m all about that capsule wardrobe. This summer, Free People is proving majorly helpful for adding some fresh pieces into said capsule with its perfect summer staples. The brand’s latest drop is where comfort meets a bohemian aesthetic, making it a breeze to pack for any holiday, be it a special trip abroad or a hot-weather staycation.
Look at the Taking Sides Maxi (£108) for example. Its ruffled details and breezy silhouette make it perfect for everything from beach strolls to dinner dates. The We the Free Cruisin’ Long Shorts (£88) With their relaxed fit, they’re great for lounging or pairing with a cute top. And let’s not forget the Vista Sweater Co-Ord (£108), a versatile set that can be styled a million ways. These pieces aren’t just about looking good—they take the hassle out of getting dressed when it’s hot and make you feel ready for anything.
So, what am I packing for my holiday? First up, strappy dresses. The Wilder Days Mini Dress (£118) is my go-to for hot summer days—light, airy and comfy. For beach days, I’ll be pairing the On Repeat Linen Shorts (£60) with a classic tank for a cool laid-back look. Of course, I can’t forget swimwear, so I’m taking a few options with me—the Peony Broderie One-Piece Swimsuit (£248) for a classic beach moment, and the bright yellow Free-est Amber One-Piece Swimsuit (£158) from the brand’s holiday Free-est collection, for a pop of colour. And for those boho-chic vibes, a ruffled set is perfect for a romantic dinner by the sea—I’m eyeing the Fischer Skirt Set (£118).
Below, I’ve rounded up my top four holiday basics that you can never go wrong with, so keep scrolling for the pieces that get this fashion editor’s must-pack stamp of approval.
Shop My Favourite Holiday Staples From Free People:
1. Strappy Dresses
FREE PEOPLE
Free-Est Taking Sides Maxi
£108
I fell in love with the smocked detailing on the bodice, and the front ties add a bohemian feel that makes it very holiday-appropriate.
FREE PEOPLE
Wilder Days Mini Dress
£118
This minidress doubles as a cover-up for long days spent lounging at the beach, saving extra space in your luggage.
FREE PEOPLE
Last Dance Maxi Dress
£288
I’m planning on wearing this to a beach wedding this summer. The colour, the silhouette, the ruffles—it’s everything I need in a wedding guest dress and then some.
FREE PEOPLE
Hibiscus Tiered Maxi Dress in Ivory
£158
All you need is a classic white strappy dress to bring your whole holiday wardrobe together. The floral embroidery on this tiered maxi gives it a little more interest.
2. Beach-Ready Shorts
WE THE FREE
We the Free Cruisin’ Long Shorts in Ultra Light Beam
£88
The low-slung, oversized silhouette of these longline denim shorts is perfect for adding an easy, casual element to an outfit.
FREE PEOPLE
Get Free Striped Pull-On Shorts
£58
These comfy cotton shorts come in so many colourways.
FREE PEOPLE
We the Free Palmer Shorts in Outer Space
£88
I’ll be wearing these dark-wash denim shorts with a flowy white lace blouse for a delicate and classic look.
FREE-EST
On Repeat Linen Shorts
£60
The semi-sheer linen means I can show off a bright swimsuit when I’m heading for lunch straight from the beach.
3. Swimwear
FREE-EST
Free-Est Amber One-Piece Swimsuit
£158
I always take a good bright swimsuit on holiday, and this one features thin straps, a low neckline and open back for cute shape.
MONTCE SWIM
Bendita Bikini Top
£140
This yellow two-piece would look amazing styled with a sheer white cover-up, some white strappy sandals and a raffia tote.
MARE PERPETUA
Sol Triangle Bikini Top
£74
I’m calling it: you’re about to see mint everywhere this summer. I’m jumping on the bandwagon early with this dusty mint-blue bikini.
PEONY
Broderie One-Piece Swimsuit
£248
The subtle peony embroidery on this clean white swimsuit is so pretty.
4. Bohemian Sets
FREE PEOPLE
Free-Est Vista Sweater Co-Ord
£108
Made from the brand’s seasonless thin knitted fabric, this set will be the first thing in my suitcase. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve needed something a little warmer for colder nights when I’ve been away, and this is just perfect.
FREE PEOPLE
Free-Est Fischer Skirt Set in Chocolate Fondant Combo
£118
Have you ever seen anything cuter than this boho-chic skirt set? It comes in a few different colourways, but the brown and white is my favourite.
FREE PEOPLE
Free-Est Strada Co-Ord Set
£78
To transition this set into an evening outfit just add some heeled sandals and a structured clutch.
FREE PEOPLE
Free-Est Mairead Fauxchet Co-Ord
£78
I always come back to crochet pieces with tie closures for the warmer months, and this set not only gets my approval but that of my fellow Who What Wear UK editors too.
