With not one but two bank holidays on the horizon, May is basically the unofficial start of summer. Of course, quick changing forecasts can put a slight damper on the long weekend mood, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still dress incredibly chic - even when spring showers are in the mix. The solution? A great transitional outfit that’s perfectly suited to whatever the weather might throw your way - unless you decide to skip the capricious weather conditions and spend a long weekend soaking up sun abroad, that is.
For a spontaneous weekend away beyond the British border, skip the jacket and pack your lightweight essentials - think breezy striped shirts, breathable linen trousers (M&S is known for its impeccable trouser selection) and your favourite pair of thong sandals. These effortlessly chic staples will keep you cool and polished from brunch to beachside strolls, and they’ll carry you well into summer once the balmy weather decides to stick around.

If you're planning a staycation in the great outdoors - whether that means hiking in one of the UK’s National Parks or visiting the charming seaside villages of Cornwall - consider an outfit formula with a little more coverage. Think a lightweight jacket, and loose-fitting jeans to protect against the cooler evening chill, alongside a fail-safe pair of trainers or clog-style slingbacks.
We’ve found four of the best looks that’ll work no matter what your three-day plans include - shop them below.
Shop: The Best Weekend Outfit Formulas
Chic City Break
Jetting off for a few days in the sun? You’ll want a capsule wardrobe of mix and match co-ords, suede flip-flops that go with everything and generously-sized basket bags. Now to test the limits of how long a rosé fuelled lunch can really last.

uk.camillaandmarc.com

uk.camillaandmarc.com

mintvelvet.com

www.next.co.uk

lespecs.co.uk
Classic Coastal
Pottering around idyllic coastal villages calls for comfortable but chic footwear – think mesh ballerinas and suede trainers – ideally worn with pyjama bottoms that double as trousers, cool-girl caps and an easy-going pastel colour palette.

www.gap.co.uk

www.marksandspencer.com

www.gant.co.uk

www.longchamp.com

www.thereformation.com
The Great Outdoors
Whether you’re off for a hike or gentle stroll, dress the part in crochet knits, checks and plenty of khaki. Pack the cool box, grab your rucksack and prepare to breathe in that fresh air. Whether you camp is entirely up to you.

www.zara.com

www.uniqlo.com

www.ganni.com

www.stradivarius.com

www.mytheresa.com
Hackney-On-Sea
We do like to be beside the seaside, preferably with a 99 (well, £4.99) in hand. Head to the UK’s buzzy seaside towns in paintbox bright jellies or natty deck shoes, nautical stripes and cosy cardigans for that salty sea breeze.

www.johnlewis.com

www.mytheresa.com

uk.sandro-paris.com

www.harveynichols.com
20.
Mango, Mesh Bag

shop.mango.com
Emma Richardson is a fashion commerce writer for Grazia. She was previously a fashion and beauty commerce writer for Heat and Closer, and has contributed digital content for a variety of lifestyle brands. Emma finds much of her inspiration in celebrity style, with Sienna Miller often being a major influence, and loves a pair of ballet pumps and a trusted trench coat.
Julia Harvey has been Grazia’s shopping editor for over three years, overseeing and editing all things shopping for the title from trend pages, gift guides and the best things to buy now in both print and online.