Buying a holiday wardrobe

Off to Cyprus on Wednesday! Part of the pleasure of a holiday, for me, is the leisurely showering and hairwashing after a day in the sun, and then applying a glimmering body lotion, just a little make-up and a new outfit: a pretty dress or a floaty skirt and top, accessorised with a cute little bag and sandals.

I not only book the holiday in January, when it gives me something to look forward to in the dark months, but I start buying clothes in the winter too. This silk blue top by Mandolin I bought at the Swindon designer outlet back in Jan/Feb. I love the teal colour.

The cream dress with the embroidery, left, was bought in Marks & Spencer, a snip at just £45. I have a bag (shown) and matching shoes from Monsoon which are the same soft coral solour as the embroidery. Next to the dress is a floaty skirt, £35 from Marks & Spencer.

In La Senza I bought two bikinis, both with shorts (more flattering than briefs): the cherry print, shown, and a red and white polka dot. I love the flip flops which go with the cherry print. On the back of the chair is a red cover-up, also from La Senza. Ideal for lunchtime or for buying an ice cream and not wanting to walk over in just a bikini.

I like to buy a new beach bag too. The basket shown is from Marks & Spencer (£15) and I bought a new bag charm from Boho Fashion Jewellery (£18).