Summer is coming, and we’ve drawn up a handy how-to for warmer-weather style. Just add blue sky.

Dress for the occasion – and the destination. 

Written by Afrika Bogatsu

So, it’s finally time for a break, whether with the family, treating your favourite person, or taking some well-deserved time out for yourself. You’re there for a good time and not a long time so it’s important to look your best and make the right style impression. If 2021 taught us anything, it’s that life is short and we should take any and every opportunity to turn every moment into an occasion. 

We’ve drawn up a staycation style guide for wherever you might find yourself this summer.

The must-pack essentials

Before we get to the destination, let’s start with the basics:

• Double up on socks and underwear – wherever you’re headed, the more the merrier because we’re talking multiple looks a day.
• Pyjamas because you can still be stylish while you sleep.
• Sunglasses (and sunscreen) and a cap or bucket hat.
• A toiletry bag. This goes without saying but we’ll say it again, you always gotta stay fresh and clean, and moisturised wherever you may be. Bra God, don’t like ashy. Throw in your choice of the 6 ultimate scents of summer. 
• Masks and sanitiser. Vaxxed or not, we’re staying safe all summer long. 

Packing tips

• Choose clothes that can be mixed and matched, so all the combos communicate. Coordination is key, as it’ll make getting dressed so much easier. 
• Avoid overpacking. We know this can be difficult if you like options but you also don’t wanna look like a sgidla va, or like you’re moving in. 
• Roll, don’t fold your clothes. It not only saves you space but also prevents clothes from creasing, because who has time to iron when you’re on holiday?

Beach

Let’s take it back to the beach

You don’t have to be Chad le Clos to look the part when you’re invited to a pool party or the beach. Have fun with your choice of swimwear, grab a fun bright print or eye-catching colour that’ll ensure your friends won’t miss you on Clifton 1 through 4.

When you wanna dress up for sundowners or dinner somewhere nice with your summer fling, go for a light (linen or cotton) co-ord. 

Most importantly if you’re going to be wearing flip flops or slides, please get a pedicure. We thank you in advance.   

Kick back and soak up sun, sea and serenity at a quintessential beach holiday destination like Gonana Guest Lodge like Paternoster on the West Coast, or enjoy poolside luxury with an ocean breeze at The Oyster Box in Umhlanga, minutes from Durban. 

Nature

The Great Outdoors

Now that you’ve survived one of the toughest years of our lifetime, you wanna test your limits on an extreme adventure out in nature. You may not be as hardcore as Bear Grylls but you can take a page from his survival guide by packing a pair of tough yet stylish utilitarian joggers or shorts. 

Maybe you’re not the adventurous type and prefer relaxing under the African sky, checking out The Big 5. If so, make sure to pack a warm enough jacket or hoodie because it gets pretty chilly at night.  

Expect up-close encounters with the Big Five at Thanda Safari, a luxury game reserve in KZN, or soak up the tranquility of Nkomazi’s riverside location and opportunities for spectacular game viewing in a unique safari experience.

City Break

Bright lights, Bigger city

Your bae has given you a visa for the summer, or maybe you’re recently single and ready to mingle and turn up in the big city – Jozi Maboneng. 

The aesthetic to go for here is smart yet a little sporty.  

We’ll start from the bottom, because people really do judge you off your kicks. Go for crispy clean sneakers or loafers. A good pair of dark wash jeans are versatile enough to wear to a friend’s braai or a rooftop bar for happy hour, paired with either a graphic tee or a smart-casual golfer.  Add a little bad boy edge to your look with a biker jacket or keep it sporty with a puffer that’s sure to keep you warm and dry.

Why not enjoy the cool, considered calm of one of the Home Suite Hotels, or get the party started with a chic room at The Capital? Both have properties in various cities in SA, so the choice is all yours. 

The Lali’s / Emakhaya

Hometown Glory

Those who have the privilege of having rural roots, will most probably be visiting home for either a wedding, an unveiling, thanksgiving ceremony or some sort of umsebenzi for amadlozi. Summer is mcimbi season. Impress the aunties (boRakgadi noMakazi) and make sure you make your mom proud whenever you leave the house to run errands, because people are always watching. 

You don’t have to be showy and extra, as long as you make an effort. Go for a simple but classic look, that says “I’m grown.” Choose chinos or hardworking thick jeans that won’t get too dirty when you’re helping umalume. Good shoes that are ideally water-resistant, like boots, are your best bet for footwear. 

Now you’ve got the looks down, it’s time to plan a summer to remember. Whatever you do, don’t forget to document your staycation style upgrade for your fans and followers – if it doesn’t make it to Instagram, it didn’t happen.