The kit you need by your poolside lounger – including the swim shorts, sunglasses, SPF sunscreen, towel and shoes.

It can be tempting to assume that the pool-lounging part of a holiday is the time to switch off. And this is certainly the case if by “switch off” you mean disable your work email alerts, pour yourself a gin and tonic, and set your sunlounger to horizontal. But not when it comes to deciding what clothes to pack. Obviously you will want to invest in a decent pair of swim shorts that fit well before you decide to parade yourself by a pool, but you also might like to consider what to wear when out of the water – if, say, the temperature drops or you decide to hotfoot it to a nearby bar. On second thoughts, don’t consider anything at all. Put your feet up, and have a look at the below. We’ve done the work for you.

There are many brands that we would recommend for sophisticated swim shorts, but few specialise in this department as well as Frescobol Carioca. Apart from their interesting designs and vibrant colours, they know how to execute a snug, contemporary fit as well as anyone. This orange short-length pair are so well conceived that, as long as they’re not damp, they’d be as appropriate on dry land as in water. Especially when teamed with this cotton-terry towelling tee – which reminds us of Mr Sean Connery’s casual wardrobe in Goldfinger. Which is a good thing. OK?

The sun has many benefits. It warms the cockles, it turns our skin into a more palatable colour (if you’re careful, mind – more on that in a minute) and it allows us to wear sunglasses. Yes, yes, they’re very practical and everything, but they also have the effect of making everyone roughly 40 per cent cooler. And, not only that – they also allow you to people watch to your heart’s content. Which is quite useful when you’re by a pool, let’s all admit. Now, about that skin of yours. It’s the body’s biggest organ, so take good care of it. We like Hampton Sun lotion, as not only does it look after the basics, such as UV protection, it also helps prevent premature aging.

Those sunloungers don’t half get hot, right? Total nightmare. So, what towel will you go for? The free one provided? Your old gym towel? Or a handsome, well-made one by Frescobol Carioca? As you may have guessed, we’re a big fan of this Rio de Janeiro-inspired brand, and not least this piece, with its stylish diamond design woven on pure linen. And, what’s more, it’s big enough for two if you like to sunbathe with company; or, if you decide to head to the beach, it will work wonders keeping you away from all that pesky sand. Now, if you decide that you need to remove yourself from said towel – perhaps to a nearby bar to take the edge off your stressful day – make sure you have some espadrilles to make the journey as pain-free as possible.