Cool print summer tops

I am beginning to get emails from my readers asking for advice on what to pack for a summer holiday, a trip to a mediterranean seaside resort or a Caribbean cruise.

You will need to pack cotton, linen, silk (I always wash mine) or viscose. Polyester is, in my opinion, too hot and sticky for high temperatures. It is practical to include items that multi task. If you overpack you risk lugging heavy suitcases around or paying excess baggage costs. Choose pieces that can be worn day or evening and do not take up too much room in a case. If you are clever you may be able to manage with a carry-on. This will depend on the climate and the activities you are planning.

The top I am wearing is a soft filmy cotton. It can be worn as a dress, over a swimsuit on the beach, or as a tunic over trousers. It can also be dressed up with jewellery for a casual summer evening out.

These gorgeous photos were taken by Julie (aka Jaf_in_the_box). Julie is a French girl, mum of 3 who has a passion for photography and has recently joined the blogosphere. You can see more of her beautiful photographs on her Instagram or read her Lifestyle blog at www.jafinthebox.wordpress.com. Do pop over not only does she share her stunning photos she also features delicious french recipes.

The photos were shot at Isabella Plantation in Richmond Park. If you are visiting the UK in the Spring you must must go there. As you can see from the photos the Azaleas are breathtaking.

I bought the top I am wearing in France and have had it for several years.

SHOP SIMILAR COTTON TOPS

Chicatanyage

I write a fashion and beauty blog for women over 50 with the aim of inspiring mature women to continue to enjoy and have fun with their fashion choices. I have spent most of my working life in some way connected to fashion. I started my career in Fashion PR and then trained as an Image Consultant when my children were young. I subsequently worked in the corporate world running seminars, doing private coaching and speaking at conferences. I started my blog in 2009 as I wanted to share my years of experience working in the world of fashion. I truly believe we can continue to have confidence in the way we present ourselves. Our style may evolve with time and changing lifestyles, yet with a little knowledge and inspiration, we can all continue to have fun with fashion. As women of a certain age we are a growing demographic let us prove that we can also be a chic one.

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View Comments

WendyB says:

9th June 2016 at 16:17

I LOVE that blue top - it looks absolutely stunning on you. I have found over the last few years that I have to think more about what I wear in the summer - I used to love the heat but these days I get hot and sticky much quicker. I like loose cotton or linen - I haven't tried silk but I must do so. By the way, that photo of you in the hat and your blue top has a delightful period look about it and really shows off the beautiful shape of your face. Lucky woman!
- Chicatanyage says:
  
  9th June 2016 at 17:54
  
  Thank you for the compliment WendyB. I have often felt that I was born that I would have like to have been born in another era. Maybe the 20s as in Downton Abbey!!!
Naomi says:

9th June 2016 at 18:22

Love that top on you! This a delightful post. Enjoyed a lot!
Margo says:

9th June 2016 at 21:39

Josephine. Thank you for this post I also was going to contact you about packing for a summer trip. I am going to Nice on Sunday and have been thinking over what to bring. I find summer clothes so much of a challenge not being able to wear more concealing sweaters and not to mention veins on legs! Any tips would be very much appreciated. I didn't want to ask when you are on holiday but I hope you are having a lovely break and by the way you look stunning as usual. You are a real inspiration. Margo
Sue says:

10th June 2016 at 01:46

Love the cotton tunic. I just purchased one (Sulu brand) and love it. Cotton is the best fabric for summer.
LesleyP says:

10th June 2016 at 14:07

The summer tunic looks fantastic with the hat or without. I have a white cotton tunic top to go with linen shorts or red cotton jeans. A great addition to the holiday wardrobe.