What to wear on a city mini-break
Clue: don't do as I just did
I am just back from Istanbul. It involves all the hazards of a city mini break: airport, swollen ankles, walking in a busy bazaar, dinner somewhere smart, a near naked hammam. It was sunny by day, cold at night. I made the mistake of wearing four-inch Louboutins on a rooftop on a windy day. My shoes could, literally, have killed me. But fear not. Here are some options to make sure you enjoy your trip rather than suffer in silence.
I earn no revenue from brands mentioned on this Substack
For the airport and plane
These are smart enough to wear each day
Birkenstock, £105
For a posh dinner, I love these below by Victoria Beckham, but they are pricey at £520…
Much cheaper are these looky likeys…
Massimo Duti, £119
A large tote is great for day; make sure it has a zip in case pickpockets are lurking, and no backpacks. I once had my backpack slit from end to end in Madrid without my knowledge
H&M, £12.99
For dinner, keep it small…
Mini shoulder bag, £14.90
Our normal clothes can look shiny and stained in bright sunlight, so avoid taking your usual black jacket. I love this jacket, as it says ‘holiday’ rather than work. A bomber jacket has a bit of edge, rather than being frumpy
Cos, £115
You need some relaxed trousers for day. Jeans can be too hot, so I love these, in Petite, meaning they won’t drag on the ground
Reiss wide-legged linen trousers in Petite (goes up to a size 16)
The perfect holiday dress so you will feel all floaty and relaxed is a must. You don’t want anything too restricting or formal, or that will have creased in your case. According to this week’s Times fashion section, Brown is the new Black. Did you know I invented that phrase back in the early Eighties? Well, this dress is brown. Team with a sheer, sparkly shawl
Reiss satin midi dress by, £170