Fashion: Pack to basics.

Byline: Shereen Low

HOLIDAYS are a godsend, but packing is a nightmare. THow often have you neatly packed all your clothes, only to find it just will not shut? Or worse still, you manage to cram everything in only to find that you're missing several essentials when you finally reach your destination

BEACH

There's nothing like the warm, wonderful glow you get from a week by the sea. But if you don't pack the right gear, your holiday may not be as glamorous as you hope.

Try packing a flannel mini-skirt or knee-length stretchy skirt and a zip-up hoodie for lounging by the pool.

'For a more tropical sexy look, try a sarong combined with a fitted tank top,' says Elycia Rubin, co-author of Frumpy To Foxy In 15 Minutes.

'For dressier beachside evenings, a halterneck dress worn with flat leather sandals that you can kick off looks good, or light cotton or linen trousers with a jumper over a camisole.

'The res only one way to go with shoes at the beach - when you're not barefoot, just don bold-coloured flip-flops.

'Must-have accessories for beach trips are a wide-brimmed straw hat, sunglasses, and a beach tote and towel.'

Floozie by Frost French cocktail print sundress, pounds 18, teamed up with the accompanying basket bag, pounds 20, will look great in the evening, while Next's green crochet halterneck top, pounds 21.99, and white cropped chinos, pounds 19.99, will take you from the resort to the town centre CITY BREAK Wandering the cobblestone streets of Rome, snapping photos from the top of the Eiffel Tower, or shopping on New York's Fifth Avenue can be unforgettable.

But so can wearing the wrong clothes and getting all hot and sweaty, or shivering because of a breeze Look chic and stylish with a pair of well-fitted trousers, lightweight skirt and flat ballet pumps, or slimline trainers.

'Casual and classic ensembles work best. Keep your look simple and blend in with the locals. Don't bring a heavy coat, instead a soft cashmere wrap to keep you warm, and instead of a bulky backpack, bring a small tote bag,' says Elycia.

Marks & Spencer's beaded camisole, pounds 28, drawstring trousers, pounds 32, and glitter sparkle flip-flops, pounds 10, Next's denim crochet trim camisole, pounds 19.99, and indigo chambray skirt, pounds 26.99, and Cherokee's stripe crinkle halter dress, pounds 10, are comfortable and practical.

And with shorts in fashion this summer, check out Gap's chic city shorts, pounds 35, worn with a cap-sleeve top, pounds 14.50, and scalloped belt, pounds 19.50COUNTRYSIDE RETREATIf you think you can just relax and not have to bother when you're in the country, think again. You should be prepared for activities such as hiking and horse-riding, which means a pair of sturdy walking shoes are essential.

Make sure you also pack a flattering pair of jeans or khakis, and light layers like T-shirts, long-sleeved tops and cotton trousers you can layer up when the weather gets cool.

The best way to dress up an outfit in the evening is with accessories - so bring a pair of embellished shoes, some pretty earrings or a sparkly belt.

Uniqlo's nylon utility trousers, pounds 19.99, Principles' pale blue embroidered cropped trousers, pounds 29, and River Island's khaki combat trousers, pounds 39.99, will prepare you for any mishaps during the day

CAPTION(S):

Left Cherokee crinkle halter dress, pounds 10 Above Gap top, pounds 14.50, and city shorts, pounds 35 Top USA pro active range, from pounds 25