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Please help me pack for a holiday

2 replies

queenoftheglee · 26/09/2023 06:20

Hi S&B experts. I have never done this before, I am in desperate need of some help and know that you are just the people to ask.
I am due to go on a sunshine holiday in 4 weeks time. I have not been on a holiday like this for well over a decade, at least 1 dress size smaller and pre-kids.
For one reason and another I have nothing suitable to pack. Where do I start?
I am a 5ft 6, size 12 with a pero meno tum. I am lacking in confidence and dressing a completely different size and shape than before.
I do not have a limitless budget (as it may be another decade before I go on this type of holiday again,) but I don’t want to end up sitting in my room and missing out on all of the fun, because I have not packed appropriately.
The majority of the week’s holiday will be spent by the pool. I have no swimwear so need pointers for at least 1 (preferably 2) swimsuits/bikinis which will conceal/flatter my tum. I have hair which is prone to frizz in humidity so I need tips on handling that too. I am a pale, ‘English rose’ type. I need suggestions for some flattering places to find summer clothes out of season - possibly Vinted if I know which brands to look for?
I know that you will tell me that there are all shapes and sizes by the pool and that the most important thing is to enjoy the time with my family. I am just not great at keeping this in perspective and know that I will let my body insecurities spoil my holiday.
Tips and pointers please, so that I can get myself in order, put together a simple holiday wardrobe and approach the week with confidence.

OP posts:
melonhead · 26/09/2023 08:33

I am about the same size and shape and age as you, prob a bit older and fatter, and I live in a seaside town in Europe. My summer wardrobe is - denim cut off shorts (about 70% of women here wear them all summer), loose vest tops (linen, rayon), saltwater sandals. Loose dresses from Uniqlo or Hush or the market in my town. Cross body leather bag. Hessian bag for the beach. That's it! Every day! Bikinis from M&S or LandsEnd - nobody cares or notices your tummy and you will feel so free!!

SarahC50 · 26/09/2023 12:25

I am packing just now for a holiday too. Swimwear from Boden is good, you can get tummy control. I've bought a sweaty Betty black swimsuit which has cups and adjustable straps,it is very flattering. I think markies also have good tummy control cozzies. I find if I feel nice and well supported it makes me feel more confident walking about.

I'm taking two pairs of the white company shorts - one denim and one white. Also a pair of linen shorts and a navy pair. I'm taking lots of vest tops. HM,hush and mint velvet are good. For my feet I am taking white Birkenstock sandals,Teva sandals,trainers and a pair of wedge sandals for at night.

For the pool I am taking a sun hat, two big linen shirts and a few coverups, accessorize and seafolly have great ones. I'm really pale too but embracing it! I use p20 the SPF 50 version to stop myself burning

How about a spray leave in conditioner for the frizz.

Hopefully you will get some good sale items at this time of year but definitely accessorize, seafolly,figleaves,Boden,white company and hush I have found good summer stuff in.

Have a wonderful time I'm sure you will look fabulous xxc

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