Heading off in search of some winter sun? Lucky you. And if you’re looking for inspiration on what to pack, you’ve come to the right place. While the dresses, sandals and sunnies you reach for year after year can start to feel like a well-rehearsed, sun-ready uniform, there’s something undeniably uplifting about introducing a new piece into the mix—even if it’s just one update to refresh what’s already in your suitcase. If you ask us, there are five key categories worth considering.
Sunglasses, for one, move in and out of favour surprisingly quickly, and the right pair has the power to make every outfit feel instantly current. The same can be said for sandals, with this season’s most in-demand styles offering a particularly pretty twist. And a new swimsuit? Practically a necessity. As someone who’s arrived at their destination only to discover the elastic has given up on the one they packed, trust me on this.
Scroll on to discover the five winter-sun fashion finds to start investing in now—so it’s not just the holiday itself you have to look forward to.
The Cut-Out Cossie
(Image credit: Zimmermann)
Zimmermann
Wylie Swimsuit
Crafty cut-outs and a one-shoulder design makes this Zimmermann suit rather striking.
ACCESSORIZE
Trim Detail Swimsuit
This low-back style feels particularly chic.
Selfridges
Cannes Balconette High-Leg One-Piece
Every fashion editor I know owns an Away That Day suit.
The mermaid-like bag
(Image credit: Future/Getty Images)
If I had to pick just one Spring/Summer 2026 catwalk collection to invest in, Balmain would be it—particularly when it comes to the bags. With a strong focus on shell motifs, from pretty pink fan-like shapes to sculptural silver oysters, they adorned everything from delicate evening styles to more structured satchels. And there’s no shortage of similarly mermaid-tinged options to invest in until this collection comes out.
Vanina
Round-Handle Shell Tote Bag
This silver shell bag is a real statement-maker.
Consider this your new (albeit small) beach bag.
Jigsaw
Mini Shell Beaded Tay
This shell-encrusted bag works just as well for summer evenings as it does for weddings.
The floral frock
(Image credit: Future/Getty Images)
We dubbed floral frocks as one of the dress trends to watch for 2026 and, predictably, summer is when they come into their own. On the runways at Chloé, Rodarte, Carolina Herrera and Erdem, designers leaned into a distinctly vintage-tinged romance, sending out prints that felt equal parts nostalgic and refreshingly modern.
Rixo
Mireta Midi Dress in Pink Jeannie Bloom Ivory
Rixo is one of the first places to search for floral frocks
Dolce&Gabbana
Floral Cotton Minidress in Black
Not too keen on the ditsy print? This cotton mini dress feels a bit more daring.
This floral mini feels particularly retro.
The statement sandal
(Image credit: Future/Getty Images)
Proenza Schouler made a compelling case for OTT footwear, and much like we saw with dresses, florals took centre stage once again. This time, however, they arrive with a twist: rather than relying on classic prints, the season leans into tactile, 3D embellishments that add a sense of playfulness to even the most pared-back outfit.
H&M
Appliquéd Strappy Sandals
These flat sandals will elevate your outfit far more than flip flops.
ALAÏA
90 floral-appliqué leather and PU mules
These Alaïa shoes are a real conversation starter.
Zimmermann
Orchid 85 Floral-Appliqué Velvet Sandals in Burgundy
These orchid sandals will pair perfectly with a simple slip dress, jeans, and even tailoring.
The oversized sunnies
(Image credit: Future/Getty Images)
The slim, 90s-inspired rectangle may have reigned in recent years, but this season the focus shifts to something altogether bolder. Extra-large frames are firmly back in the spotlight, bringing a sense of drama to even the simplest of outfits. Whether angular and square or softer and more rounded, shape comes second to size—so treat your sunglasses as a key accessory, not an afterthought.
& Other Stories
Oversized Aviator Sunglasses
If you’re someone who can never keep hold of their sunnies, the high street is the place to shop.
Stella McCartney
Runway Flat-Top Sunglasses in Beige
This angular shape seen on the Spring/Summer 26 catwalk will instantly add interest to any outfit.
SAINT LAURENT
Ys000488 Blaze Rectangle-Frame Acetate Sunglasses
With an extra-large logo, these sunglasses are for those who love a luxury label.