My favourite memories are of my family and I holidaying in our far-too-small-for-a-big-family caravan. We would pack up the car and pile our belongings into the back of our temporary summer digs and get on the open road. Our favourite spots to hit were Achill Island, Lough Key Forest Park in Roscommon and whatever county the Fleadh was invading that year. Wardrobe options consisted of hand-knit Arran jumpers, Wellington boots of varying lengths and plenty of spare socks for the inevitability of cold, wet feet.
Now that I’m older, my summer holiday wardrobe needs a bit more attention (as do my accommodation choices!), which is why I’ve found H&M to be the best solution for creating a stylish statement summer wardrobe that’s tailored to my personality.
Digital leader Niamh wears long floral skirt, €39.99, only available in-store. Yellow T-shirt, €9.99 powder pink mules, €19.99, crossbody bag, €14.99, denim jacket, €49.99, sunglasses €9.99, necklace, €9.99, neck scarf, €7.99
This year, I’m heading to the beautiful Blessington lakes for a weekend of reconnecting with nature and old friends, and I need a wardrobe that will reflect the activities I plan to do during the daytime, from kayaking, mountain biking and abseiling to boutique-hunting, foraging and baking. But I love to dress up in the evening and plan to dine al fresco with friends, so I need suitable outfits for that, too.
Yellow t-shirt, €9.99 at hm.com
After an afternoon of adventuring on the water, I want something that’s going to make me feel pretty and feminine. This long floral skirt is super soft and elegant, and the button-down detailing means its easy to layer over shorts, jeans or leggings. The bright pop of colour provided by this yellow cotton T-shirt really compliments the busyness of the skirt, while the embellished denim jacket ties the whole ensemble together and will be ideal for chilly summer evenings. A lightweight crossbody bag is perfect for evening wear. I personalised mine by wrapping a pretty neck-tie around the strap. It ties together the colours of the skirt beautifully.
denim jacket, €49.99, neck scarf, €7.99, crossbody bag, €14.99
I prefer one-pieces to bikinis and H&M always has a great selection to choose from. I love that this khaki swimsuit with lacing can easily be worn with a pair of jeans or shorts and statement earrings for a summer-time evening look. I like to bring a selection of sandals on holiday that are comfortable and easy to wear.
Swimsuit with lacing, €22.99 at hm.com
These pretty, lightweight sliders are exactly what I’m looking for: the oversized bow adds additional glamour, making them perfect for transitioning from day to night.
Slides with a bow, €19.99 at hm.com