I always pack long-sleeved shirts, ideally linen or a linen blend. Brands, especially sporty ones, fall over themselves to market high-tech moisture-wicking fabric, but my ancestors the Bedouin had this solved thousands of years ago. A long sleeve, easy-fit (not tailored) shirt works anywhere in the world, in any climate. A thermal underneath turns it cosy and taking it off keeps it breezy.

It’ll keep you protected from the sun, keep you cool and if you want to sun your arms, you just need to roll up the sleeves. Bonus points if it’s naturally dyed, of course – the anti-microbial qualities of these dyes stop you smelling like a football player. They’re also easy to wash and are utterly unpretentious in every setting. We have also collectively agreed that linen, or linen blends, have a special pass when it comes to ironing, which is a massive time saver.

When packing for a holiday, my first thoughts are about eveningwear. Whether heading to a taverna, the local bar or even just having a barbecue, the perfect combination would be a loose-fitting shirt and pleated wide-leg trousers. The latter will not only be comfortable – especially in warmer climates – but will also look effortless and chic.

When made from the right fabric, a good pair of pleated trousers go a long way. I often find them to be a better option to shorts. If they are wide fitting and light enough, loose fit and airy fabric will help you keep cool.

The best example of trousers like this are from mfpen. I have many of its pleated trousers, all made from lightweight tailoring fabrics and in darker tones, which makes them perfect for the evening.

A big advantage to having the thinner and lighter weight trousers is they take up less space in your suitcase. Rest assured they will not be a dent to the weight allowance, either.

I always try to have at least three pairs of sunglasses for any trip abroad. I have a real penchant for 1970s Christian Dior frames; they’re increasingly rare, but worth every penny when you find them. They’re the most efficient way of changing a look, they take up almost no space and, since you’re on holiday, you can wear a slightly ridiculous pair of frames you might usually feel self-conscious in when at home.

I enjoy a lightweight ecru knit polo, some sort of cotton-linen-silk blend. It has the ease of a T-shirt but feels a bit more put-together, like a button-up. It doesn’t really crease, it’s lightweight and breathable in the heat. I’ll wear it with smart pleated shorts, straight over swim shorts or dress it up with a jacket later on in the evenings. Whenever I go away, I stick to a similar palette, so everything just works together. I don’t like overpacking, so I bring fewer pieces that can be worn in different ways without having to think about it too much.

I like to always have one black blazer packed. It might seem counterintuitive for a summer holiday but they’re incredibly versatile when you want something smarter for an evening. There’s very little that doesn’t pair well with a black blazer and I think it adds finesse to any look. You could always opt for a linen one, like something from Kartik Research, which is a great brand – just give it a little steam beforehand. I’m also a huge fan of a blazer with short shorts.

I consciously pack things that are unstructured – blazers, trousers, pleated shirts, that kind of thing. You’re on holiday, so you want to at least look like you’re relaxing. It’s all clothing that can get away with a crease or two. Also, while on holiday, you should try to introduce some colour or something you don’t wear often. It’s a good opportunity to go out of your comfort zone.

I have a pair of canvas court sneakers that I take everywhere with me. They’re the only pair of shoes that I’ve ever rebought before I wore my current ones out, just because I know I’ll be devastated if my current pair ever breaks down. Packing-wise, they basically pack flat because the canvas is so floppy, so that’s a game-changer. They’re great because they work for the beach but are also a classic enough style to not be an eyesore at a fancy restaurant. And as long as you aren’t planning to hit the treadmill, they’re decent gym shoes, too.