You're packing for a holiday and the skirts just aren't calling your name this time. Sound familiar? Don't worry, you're in very good company. Sometimes you simply want something a little different, and that's not a problem at all. In fact, it's an opportunity.
Whether you're thinking about what to wear on holiday in the sun or planning for a city break, there are so many brilliant alternatives to skirts that look just as stylish, feel just as feminine, and are a whole lot more versatile. Think lightweight trousers and holiday shorts, effortless co-ords, and the kind of easy dresses that practically pack themselves.
Read on for our favourite women's holiday outfit ideas that will have you feeling chic and confident from the moment you arrive to your last night out. Simple. Stylish. Stress-free.
A great pair of holiday trousers is one of those wardrobe staples you'll wonder how you ever travelled without. Lightweight, cool, and easy to throw on in the morning, they work just as hard for a day of sightseeing as they do for a relaxed dinner with a view.
The Washed Cotton Wide Leg Crop Trousers are a brilliant place to start. These cropped wide-leg trousers are cut in a flattering relaxed silhouette that skims the leg beautifully, and the washed cotton fabric keeps things cool when temperatures rise. They come in a generous range of colourways, so you can pick one to match your holiday mood. Team them with a crisp white tee tucked in at the front and your favourite sandals, and you're good to go.
Crops sit that perfect halfway point between trousers and shorts, ideal if you want a little more coverage without feeling overdressed.
If you've been a little unsure about holiday shorts in the past, we completely understand. But here's the thing: the right pair can feel just as comfortable and flattering as your favourite trousers, especially when the length and fabric are spot on.
The DASH Elasticated Waist Shorts are exactly that. Cut to a flattering longer length and finished with a comfortable elasticated waistband, these are the kind of shorts you can happily wear all day without a second thought. Style them with a simple t-shirt and comfy sandals for a relaxed daytime look, or swap to trainers on days when you'll be on your feet.
For something with a little more texture, the Washed Cotton Twill Shorts are a great wardrobe staple. The washed cotton twill fabric gives them a slightly more structured feel while still being wonderfully easy to wear, and they pair beautifully with a loose linen blouse or a cotton top tucked in at one side.
Both styles come in sizes 10 to 28, because a size 16 should fit like a size 16, every time.
You know those days on holiday when you just don't want to think about what goes with what? That's exactly what a matching co-ord is for. Top and shorts sorted in one click. Done.
The Autonomy Coral Print Shorts and Coral Print Sleeveless Top are a head-turning pair. The bold coral print feels vibrant and holiday-ready, and the sleeveless top keeps things cool in the warmth. Wear them together for a pulled-together look, or mix the pieces back with wardrobe staples for twice the outfit options.
If you love a print with personality, the Tie Dye Shirt and Tie Dye Shorts co-ord is a brilliant choice. The watercolour-style print feels effortlessly on-trend, and the shirt works beautifully worn open over a cami as well as buttoned up for a smarter finish.
And for a co-ord with real wow factor, the cobalt blue Postcard Print co-ord is a holiday showstopper. The bold blue and white postcard-inspired print feels vibrant and resort-ready, while the relaxed boxy shirt with three-quarter sleeves and the longer-length shorts create an effortlessly polished look. Styled with flat black sandals, it's the kind of outfit that looks like you've put in far more effort than you have.
We know, we know. This is a guide about what to wear instead of skirts. But if you do fancy slipping into a dress one morning, we've got you covered. And at just £12, you might just want more than one.
The Aztec Print Strappy Button Placket Dress is a true holiday hero. Made from 100% viscose, it feels lovely and light against the skin, with a flattering cinched waist detail, button placket front, and sleeveless design that keeps you cool. Style with sunglasses and sandals for effortless daytime fashionability.
Or try the Ditsy Print Sleeveless Empire Seam Dress, also £12 and rated five stars by customers. The empire seam cut is wonderfully flattering, the v-neckline adds a touch of elegance, and the ditsy print gives it that holiday feel in an instant. Pair with sandals and your favourite crossbody bag and you're ready for the day.
It's the little things that make an outfit feel truly finished, and holiday dressing is no different. A few well-chosen pieces can take even the simplest look from 'just got dressed' to 'completely pulled together'.
A crossbody bag is a holiday essential. It keeps your hands free, sits neatly against the body, and adds a polished touch to everything from cropped trousers to co-ords. A simple straw or woven style works beautifully with summer outfits, while a leather-look crossbody can take you from day to evening.
Add some jewellery to really bring the look to life. Layered necklaces, hoop earrings, or a stack of bangles all work brilliantly with summer outfits, and you don't need to overdo it. Pick one or two pieces that feel right, and let your outfit do the talking.
And of course, comfortable sandals are non-negotiable. Whether you prefer a flat slip-on or a low wedge for a little extra height, the right pair can tie an entire look together.
Browse our full range of women's accessories for everything you need to complete your holiday look.
Are cropped trousers flattering?
Absolutely. Cropped trousers are one of the most universally flattering styles. The key is the cut: a wide leg crop sits away from the body and creates a long, elegant line, while the cropped length draws the eye down and makes the most of your footwear. Pair with a fitted or slightly tucked top to define the waist, and you've got a look that works brilliantly on every shape.
What's best to wear in hot weather?
Lightweight, natural fabrics are your best friend when the temperature climbs. Look for cotton, viscose, or linen-look styles that allow the air to move around you. Loose silhouettes like wide leg crops, relaxed co-ord shorts, or a floaty summer dress all work beautifully in the heat. Avoid anything too fitted in heavier fabrics, and stick to lighter colours and prints if you're heading somewhere very sunny.
Can I wear shorts at any age?
Of course you can. There's no age limit on wearing shorts, and the right pair can look incredibly chic. If you feel more comfortable in a longer length, looks for shorts that are cut to a flattering three-quarter style that sits on or just above the knee. The longer length gives great coverage while still feeling light and summery. It's all about wearing what makes you feel good.
What colours feel fresh for summer?
Warm corals, crisp whites, soft stone shades, and punchy turquoises all feel wonderfully summer-ready. If you love a print, bold aztec patterns, watercolour tie-dye styles, and ditsy florals are all working hard this season. Our holiday shop is packed with colours and prints that feel made for warmer days, so it's a great place to browse for inspiration.
Skirts are wonderful. But so are women's holiday outfit ideas that don't involve them. Whether you're reaching for lightweight holiday trousers, trying your first pair of longer holiday shorts, building a look around a matching co-ord, or slipping into a £12 summer dress, we've got something for every mood and every trip.
Shop everything in sizes 10 to 28 and discover styles that fit the way they should, every single time. Because great holidays deserve great outfits.