I'm packing for a late summer holiday – here are 9 high-street fashion pieces that will work into autumn too
From statement jewellery to a versatile blouse, these pieces work for sunny days and for the autumn weather too
I am lucky enough to be heading off on a very special late-summer holiday to the Maldives – meaning that I have a very good excuse to look at some new fashion staples. However, we are reaching the end of summer, so I'm searching for pieces that will work both beachside and when I return to the UK for the cooler season ahead.
Although there is no need to overhaul my summer wardrobe, I have got nine things in mind that would make my suitcase a little bit more exciting. Whilst I'm choosing lighter fabrics and silhouettes for the warmer climate, I'm also considering my autumn outfit ideas, because versatility is key, especially when it comes to building a capsule wardrobe with longevity.
For example, the dreamy white linen blouse from Rixo that I have chosen will work with a pair of breezy linen trousers or shorts, but will look equally good underneath a suede blazer with jeans when I return. From an eye-catching eveningwear dress to a woven tote bag, these are the nine pieces I'm considering for my trip that should provide plenty of wear beyond it.
A linen shirt is one of those holiday staples that you'll practically live in once you touch down. For my trip, I'd wear it over swimwear or buttoned up with denim shorts for a beach outfit idea, but it can be brought into autumn, layered underneath a blazer or leather jacket – just add jeans, because I want breathability all year.
The blue and green print makes this swimsuit feel more than just a practical piece. The vibrant tones are so beautiful, reflecting the ocean and feel perfect for a beachside holiday. Once home, I'll be slipping into this for any local pool visits or spa days I have planned for the rest of the year. And of course, I can still wear it next summer too.
I already own the (now sold-out) larger version of Anthropologie's Nola woven bag and use it daily, so the mini version immediately turned my head. The textured leather finish feels holiday-ready, yet versatile enough to use every day once returned. The dark brown tone also feels very aligned with the autumn/winter colour trends for 2026.
One of the best parts of a holiday is going for dinner after a glorious day of sunbathing, but figuring out what to wear can be tricky. This vivid blue dress is the perfect find. The flattering dropped waist and ruching are what drew me to it, while the cobalt hue again aligns with the autumn/winter fashion trends for 2026. Add boots and a leather jacket for cooler weather.
From holiday styling to complementing office wear, these heeled ballet pumps are truly the most versatile find. They come in a rich burgundy shade that will go with just about anything, from white-jeans outfits to colourful frocks. While I will wear sandals for the day, in the evening I do like to have a smart flat shoe for dinner.
These earrings have long been on my wishlist, and I've been waiting for an excuse to buy them; this trip might give me one. The silver shell detail gives a vintage feel, and the pearl pendant is detachable for versatile styling options. Part of the jewellery trends for 2026, the influence of aquatics on accessories is one I expect to return next summer too.
This floral printed scarf can completely transform an outfit. On holiday, I would wear it as part of a beach outfit, tying it over my hair or around my woven bag handles. On my return it can be styled loosely around the neck with a knit, shirt or jacket in cooler temperatures.
This romantic lace blouse can be dressed up or down effortlessly, from wearing it to a relaxed beachside lunch with denim shorts or cotton capris to styling it for an evening out with a printed slip skirt and kitten heels. The ruffled collar adds to its charm.
Made from a linen blend and featuring a charming fringe detail, this white skirt immediately caught my attention whilst browsing the Zara new-in. Add heeled sandals, a simple vest and a woven clutch, and you're good to go. Come autumn, add a cosy feel by teaming it with suede boots and a chunky, olive or tan-hued knit.
The best way to shop for a late-summer holiday is to choose pieces that can be layered and styled through the season ahead. Or at least pieces that you know you will wear when the warmer weather returns next spring. A great blouse, leather flats or an evening dress can look completely different with a suede jacket, knitwear or tights. Autumn styling is all about layering, and with a little thought, plenty of your summer pieces can be worn into the cooler months ahead.
