Fashion: Easy breezy styles for summer getaway

It's almost that time of year again, when thoughts turn to warm, beachy holidays. With the first long weekend of the summer on the horizon, you may be thinking about what to pack in your bag for a few days away.

We've compiled some summer holiday essentials to make packing your bags a bit easier - and picked out some of our favourites, from funky hats to versatile wedges.

First up, you'll need a good maxi dress.

Not only are they comfortable and easy to wear but they can be dressed up or down as the occasion requires, whether you need something to wear to the beach or out for lunch.

This great dress from Sabine is perfect for an evening out if you dress it up with wedges and some chunky jewellery, but can also work well for an afternoon sitting beside the pool.

Florals are perfect for summer holidays for this reason, too. This Sirocco floral maxi from Farmers is a really versatile option. Florals are really girly by default, even with minimal accessorising, they can look dressy.

Glassons' shorter floral option follows the trend for flared, almost 50s-style dresses this year. It's a really flattering look and perfect for summery barbecues. The pin-up inspiration is carried through to swimsuits, with quite a lot of structure and panelling - good news for those of us not brave enough to bring out a bikini.

Denim shorts are back again this year, especially in pastel and light-coloured fabrics.

Don't think you have to channel Jessica Simpson, though - they look good with flowing tops with longer sleeves to balance out the shortness of the shorts.

Some longer-style T-shirts are also good matches for a pair of denim shorts.

A long, flowing shirt - whether it's boyfriend style, tunic or kaftan - is a must for your bag, too. These are an excellent cover-up for trips to the beach and can work with a pair of shorts or jeans if you need to head off somewhere afterwards. Super comfortable and breezy, these are the definition of summer holiday wear!