With holiday prices rising this summer, many of us are opting for hand luggage only trips, but it can be tricky to know what to pack in a small suitcase that still translates into plenty of outfits. We set fashion expert Jo Elvin a challenge to create a nine-item summer capsule wardrobe perfect for your next trip.
Whether you're wondering what should I wear today? or looking for holiday outfit inspiration, Jo's carefully curated selection will mean you look chic whether you're strolling along the sand or sweating out another heatwave at home.
And the best bit? Every piece is from one of our favourite British clothing brands, Marks & Spencer, meaning you can guarantee quality and style at an affordable price. Its latest collections have been going from strength to strength, and whether you're looking for classic cuts or pieces inspired by the latest spring/summer fashion trends 2026, you won't be disappointed by what Jo's picked.
A post shared by woman&home (@womanandhome)
A photo posted by on
The ultimate space saving shoes, these sandals will barely take up any space in your hand luggage - the gold disc detail will add a touch of glitz to every outfit.
For a beach-to-bar look, pack this crochet cardigan. When it comes to how to wear it, Jo says, "wear as a gorgeous little lightweight crochet top - it would look great over your little bikini or one piece."
If you're looking for new long skirt outfit ideas, this lightweight maxi is the perfect addition to your wardrobe. Wear over your swimsuit on the beach or with a cool tee back at home.
As Jo calls it, this swimsuit will be 'the centre of your nine piece hand luggage universe'. With shell detailing and a lightly padded bust, it could easily double as a bodysuit for an evening outfit.
With pretty butterfly sleeves, this floral printed top will look great on holiday with a swishy skirt or wide leg trousers, then when you're back it's the perfect stylish top to wear with jeans.
A linen shirt is a holiday must-have - wear it as a cover-up over your swimsuit or team it with wide-leg trousers for a laid-back silhouette for the evening.
Adding a splash of colour to an otherwise neutral holiday wardrobe is a 'wild card', according to Jo. If you've been wondering how to wear butter yellow, holidays are a great time to try this trend.
Available in six colours, M&S' linen trousers will keep you cool on even the hottest of days. Timeless black is not only chic but it will pair with every style of top in your capsule wardrobe.
A tank top is a versatile holiday item - Jo suggests wearing it under the crochet cardigan and the skirt for a tonal look or team it with wide leg trousers for a pared-back monochrome outfit.
If you've not heard of the three-colour rule yet, this clever fashion hack creates a chic, cohesive wardrobe that's perfect for mixing and matching. By opting for neutral tones in white, brown and black, Jo's nine-piece holiday wardrobe allows for a wide variety of stylish summer outfit ideas that will nail what to wear in the heat.
While the 'wild card' of a pop of yellow might throw you, adding a single bolder colour is a great way to mix up your outfits and create interest in otherwise simple outfits. Last summer's 'unexpected red' trend has been replaced by the sunny tones of butter yellow, a surprisingly flattering colour that works with all skin tones and will complement the neutral colours of Jo's edit.
Whether you're lounging by the pool or enjoying cocktails in the evening, this clever nine-piece wardrobe will create a host of holiday outfit ideas - no hold luggage required.
