Trinny Woodall reveals the beach accessory she can’t do without – and the reason why was unexpected (but genius)
The stylist even keeps the accessory in her hand luggage...

Trinny Woodall might have an extensive wardrobe, but when it comes to going on holiday, there is one item she can’t do without – a sarong. And after reading the reason why, it will be top of our packing list going forward too.
During her weekly Closet Confessions on Instagram, Trinny revealed how she struggles to pack light (hence the two suitcases for a 10-day trip to the Bahamas). But she also shared a sarong as being a travel essential, so much so she packs it in her hand luggage to ensure it never gets left behind.
And, aside from the versatility of the item, the main reason it’s such an essential was not only a surprise, but a genius travel tip too. “In case we lost our luggage, I had packed a sarong,” she explained. “I can’t tell [my daughter] Lila this as she is always so paranoid …she doesn’t like me to jinx things.” See - genius!
A post shared by T R I N N Y (@trinnywoodall)
A photo posted by on
Effortlessly chic sarongs
This beautiful tile print sarong from M&S is among our favourites, as it was designed by Sienna Miller. It captures the actress's effortless boho style and has a gorgeous vintage feel. Add your favourite swimsuit for a timeless, relaxed look.
Whether you are staying in the UK or bound for tropical shores, this leaf-print sarong will help you make the most of summer. It has a gorgeous, vintage-style design but will go with almost any swimwear thanks to its muted tones. Plus, the cotton material will help you stay cool even as you relax by the pool.
It’s not hard to see why Trinny chose this particular sarong, the pink and orange hues immediately elevating a simple black swimsuit. Sarongs are great for easy, versatile styling, working as a beach cover-up for the day or a relaxed dress in the evening - making it a great piece to have if, indeed, your luggage should go missing.
While none of us like to think of our luggage going awol, packing a sarong in your hand luggage is a great fail-safe. Like Trinny, we’d also advise packing a change of shoes and a bikini too, just in case - it goes to show that you don’t need a lot to make an effortlessly chic outfit. Need a fail-safe cabin bag too? We've found two, tried and tested, cabin bags each under £25.
Sign up for the woman&home newsletter
Sign up to our free daily email for the latest royal and entertainment news, interesting opinion, expert advice on styling and beauty trends, and no-nonsense guides to the health and wellness questions you want answered.
-
Missed out the first time around? Fashion editor favourite A.W.A.K.E. Mode is back with another John Lewis collection
Shop this collection online & in-store now
By Molly Smith Published
-
Maxi skirts are the new midi dresses and Queen Mary’s floral design is utterly eye-catching
Queen Mary’s floral skirt has convinced us that maxi skirts are a brilliant alternative to midi dresses for spring and summer.
By Emma Shacklock Published
-
Missed out the first time around? Fashion editor favourite A.W.A.K.E. Mode is back with another John Lewis collection
Shop this collection online & in-store now
By Molly Smith Published
-
Amanda Holden nails tonal dressing with a difference in dusty blue and mint green
Amanda Holden just paired dusty blue and mint green together and highlighted that tonal dressing can incorporate different colour families.
By Emma Shacklock Published
-
The viral M&S suede loafers are finally back in stock in chocolate brown - they're super comfy so don't miss out
This is not an April Fool - the £55 shoes are online now
By Caroline Parr Published
-
Spice up your swimwear - Jasmine Harman shows how to make leopard print sensational for summer
If you've never tried wearing leopard print before then Jasmine has proved why swimwear is an easy way to try this trend
By Emma Shacklock Published
-
Chocolate brown is everywhere but Ranvir Singh's Reiss sale dress stands out from the crowd
Ranvir Singh has made us fall in love with deep cocoa brown all over again and her Reiss midi dress is more than 50% off
By Emma Shacklock Published
-
Victoria Beckham rarely ditches her heels, but when she does adidas is her go-to – we've found similar trainers in the Amazon Spring Sale
Shop similar white trainer styles from as little as £30
By Molly Smith Published
-
Gwyneth Paltrow’s classic pinstripe pyjamas will keep you cool and comfortable on warm nights
Chic and comfortable? Her stylish pyjama set is our new go-to
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Pistachio green is the pastel to wear in 2025 – do it with white shoes like Amanda Holden
The soft green shade is perfect for spring
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published