Joanne Hegarty: Holiday wardrobe, I’ve missed you!

If there was ever a year when we all needed a holiday, it’s this one. I cannot wait to walk down an aeroplane aisle in a chic white dress and hear those magic words: ‘This is your pilot speaking – welcome aboard!’

This week I’ve been craving a break more than ever after a horrible dream that more or less summed up the past 14 months.

Still vividly clear days later, in my dream my home city of London was under siege by rioters, and as a safety precaution Boris decided we must go back into full lockdown – immediately. And, just as infuriating, my husband told me he agreed with him. I woke up full of rage, aware I’d been babbling and ranting in my sleep, and with those ghastly old feelings of uncertainty and fear doing a jig on my chest.

From that morning on, I’ve allowed myself to dream and plan a holiday. Whether you’re staycationing or flying off somewhere, it’s wonderfully therapeutic to plan your wardrobe in plenty of time. Even quietly thinking about what to pack is an escape in itself.

Rather than dread packing, indulge in it, fantasise about being the best holiday version of yourself, and enjoy the whole process. After all, this has been a long time coming.

This year my holiday look will be inspired by Tilda Swinton’s wardrobe in the movie A Bigger Splash, set on the remote Italian island of Pantelleria.

I loved her backless maxi dresses and jumpsuits in whites and linen stripes, and also the blue cotton shirts she casually wore on the beach over simple black swimsuits. She also carried a brown leather bag similar to the ones by The Row, and a wicker basket for shopping in the local market, with lemons and herbs artfully poking out. So I’m planning a Tilda holiday version of myself this year.

And, of course, I won’t be forgetting the delicious travel toppings: strappy tan footwear, hats wide-brimmed and finished with a black ribbon, plus jewellery in gold with shells and pearls.

Even though I haven’t gone anywhere yet, just thinking about holiday dressing has been a real tonic. If you’re planning a trip to the British seaside this year, dream about gorgeous breton stripes and white jeans rolled at the ankle. Or a pair of pre-loved Levi’s with a white T-shirt or shirt.

Come evening, imagine dressing up in chic dresses and cosy cashmeres or wearing your swimsuit as a top with your favourite maxi or midi skirt. Feeling more relaxed already?

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