A boating holiday in the French Riviera has such glamorous associations, doesn’t it? I immediately think of Grace Kelly elegantly draped on a grand deck, looking effortless in cat-eye sunglasses and a turban!
And while hanging out on the Pinta is glamorous to a point, the practicalities of confined spaces below deck require a capsule, no-fuss, flexible edit of clothes that won’t crease, will keep you cool, provide warmth when you need it and work interchangeably – it’s cashmere and cotton separates all the way.
Like dressing for a long-haul flight, a boating holiday is the ultimate capsule wardrobe challenge. I always choose Acne or Jacquemus T-shirts, because both are made from 100% cotton, so like cashmere, they’re breathable and comfortable. Good-quality cotton also retains its shape, giving these tees greater versatility. While cheaper T-shirts can look sloppy worn over anything other than jeans and shorts, these styles work equally well paired with a slip skirt in the evening.
My favourite cashmere pieces for both kinds of ‘cabin’ style are the Pinta, the Bex cashmere hoodie (named after Rebecca!), the Janie cashmere crew-neck for its wear-with-anything ease, and the June cashmere cardigan because it has a scarf-like neckline for added cosiness – the June is a terrific travel piece, especially for long-haul flights where tiredness and coldness often go hand in hand. A pair of Castanea cashmere Lou pants (available again this autumn/winter) also make any trip feel more relaxing, yet because they’re crafted from a luxury fabric, they never look like an afterthought. To me, cashmere joggers really define laidback luxe.
My other cashmere must-have is socks – essential for chilly evenings up on deck and overnight flights. Raey stocks beautifully comfortable and cosy soft-stretch cashmere socks that are one of those little luxuries worth spending on. Another of my holiday indulgences is Eve Lom lip balm, and Caudalíe water mist; both have terrific soothing and hydrating effects. Like everyone, I want to return from holiday looking fresher than when I left, and these extras really help with that.
My other travel essentials are a Slip silk sleep mask – made from mulberry silk and non-toxic dyes – a good notebook and a Muji pen for designing (trips abroad always leave my head full of ideas), and my carry-all is a Jil Sander oversized canvas bag, a perfect piece of utilitarian chic.
Travelling is so much fun, but prepping for trips can feel like a real chore, so I hope this checklist gives you a few useful ideas. Happy holidays, Love Paula. X
