I Know My Way Around a Summer Edit—These Are the Staples I Always Pack

The sun has finally started emerging in London, and as everyone gets their spring clothes out of storage and looks towards warmer days ahead, my mind inevitably drifts to thoughts of summer getaways. Those blissful days spent lounging on sandy shores or exploring quaint coastal towns—I can't wait. But amidst the excitement of planning my next adventure, there's one thing I need to get sorted first: what to pack. Over the years, I've honed in on a selection of classic summer staples that never fail to earn a spot in my suitcase, ensuring my holiday wardrobe is practical, easy and chic.

First up on my packing list is a pair of breezy linen trousers, perfect for wandering through bustling markets or enjoying al fresco dinners as the sun sets. Paired with a relaxed basket bag and simple leather sandals, this outfit works no matter what the day has in store. And of course, no summer getaway is complete without a flowing dress that easily transitions from beach cover-up to evening attire with the help of some block heels and accompanied by a trusty pair of sunglasses to shield my eyes from the midday sun.

Picking pieces for your holiday wardrobe can feel overwhelming, but one place I can always rely on to help get the job done is John Lewis. The retailer always offers an array of high-quality pieces from brilliant brands that harmoniously integrate into my seasonal edit. The curated selection of linen trousers, basket bags, sandals, dresses and sunglasses has become the backbone of my summer wardrobe, elevating my style no matter where my travels take me.

When it comes to styling these summer staples, the possibilities are endless. I can pair linen trousers with an airy white button-down for a day of sightseeing in Rome, or throw on a flowing dress for an evening stroll along the shores of Santorini. Whether I'm exploring cobblestone streets in Positano or soaking up the sun in the south of France, John Lewis' summer edit has the perfect pieces to suit every destination and occasion, making packing for my next getaway a breeze.

Below, I've rounded up the five pieces I will never jet off without.

Shop My Favourite John Lewis Summer Staples:

1. Linen Trousers

John Lewis

Stripe Linen Trousers

£55

Worn with the matching waistcoat, this is the perfect uniform for strolling through a sunny city.

Shop the matching Stripe Linen Waistcoat (£45).

Part Two

Eniola Wide Leg Linen Trousers

£105

I can see this paired with a white tank and flip-flops for lunch at the beach.

Whistles

Linen Wide Leg Pocket Trousers in Black

£99

Don't be scared of wearing black in the summer; just pair it with creamy neutrals.

Mango

Maena Linen Trousers in Pastel Grey

£80

I can always rely on Mango for relaxed tailoring.

2. Basket Bag

Strathberry

The Strathberry Basket Bag in Natural/Tan

£275

The mix of textures really elevates this sleek basket bag.

Mango

Sabina Large Woven Palm Leaf Basket Bag in Dark Brown

£100

I love the subtle tie detailing on the handles.

Longchamp

Le Panier Pliage Canvas Top Handle Basket Bag in Brown

£205

A basket version of Longchamp's beloved Le Pliage bag.

Mint Velvet

Straw Basket Bag in Natural

£119

I'm taking this with me to Positano in a few weeks.

3. Simple Sandals

Birkenstock

Arizona Narrow Fit Birko Flor Double Strap Sandals in Black

£80

I already have these in brown suede but the black leather pair are calling my name.

John Lewis

Lu Kha Leather Mnin Buckle Strap Sandals, Olive

£75

Strappy sandals are going to be everywhere this summer, and these look comfy too.

John Lewis

Lordie Leather Chunky Big Strap Footbed Sandals, Tan

£79

These would look so chic under a white, linen-blend maxi dress.

John Lewis

Lovey Leather Woven Padded Footbed Sliders, Chocolate

£75

Every holiday wardrobe could benefit from a pair of brown sandals.

4. Flowy Dresses

John Lewis

Cutwork Sleeve Tiered Dress in Dusty Orange

£79

This dress is guaranteed to get you compliments.

John Lewis

Fluid Drawstring Waist Dress

£59

The perfect beach dress does exist. I'll be wearing this to a sunset dinner on the coast.

Velvet by Graham & Spencer

Meradith Stripe Linen Midi Dress in Khaki

£330

One for those many al fresco lunches and afternoon strolls.

Nobody's Child

Natalia Organic Cotton Shirred Maxi Dress

£79

I love the shirred detailing and rich olive shade of this cotton maxi.

5. Sunglasses

Mango

Marai Square Sunglasses in Brown/Brown Gradient

£20

The gradient-tinted lenses soften the square frames.

Vogue

VO5338S Square Sunglasses in Dark Havana/Brown Gradient

£92

A cat-eye style always elevates a simple look.

Chloé

CH0008S Irregular Sunglasses in Orange/Orange Gradient

£255

I couldn't have added these to my basket any faster—I think I may have found my new favourite pair of sunglasses.

Yves Saint Laurent

Sl 276 Women's Mica Cat's Eye Sunglasses, Black/grey

£285

You'll fit right in at the chicest coastal European towns.