It’s not necessarily what you think…
Despite some days wanting to wear the least clothes possible, for sightseeing – I love to wear dresses. They’re easy to throw on and even easier to take off, especially if you’re in a city like Barcelona where you find yourself doing sights one minute and then relaxing on the beach the next…
I always like to look ‘chic’ on holiday – it’s just my thing.
I am a warm weather girl and I save all my favourite clothes for holiday. Plus, sightseeing is one of the few times I take holiday snaps so want to feel good. This dress, I must admit, I bought a few months back but wasn’t entirely convinced – but trying it on again with the right sandals and frame of mind – it was definitely a winner this trip.
It’s cotton: so natural and breathable when it’s 30 degrees and the long sleeves are actually perfect for someone like me who gets burnt easily on my shoulders.
In Barcelona, our tip is to get up early to do the sights, before the crowds but, more importantly, before the heat sets in.
We only really did one sightseeing morning this time, as we’re Barcelona veterans but it’s a place on our ‘must-see’ and revisit list: Park Guell. Set above the city as one of Gaudi’s finest monuments, it’s a beautiful haven outside the city with amazing views, even better architecture and of course, the essential lust-worthy tile (or two).
Now you have to book in advance to visit Park Guell (the last time we went it was Free Admission) but it is still worth it. But even if you don’t want to pay, there is a section of the park open to everyone – which is where we headed to. It’s still a beautiful walk through the gardens and we bought a cd from a local busker playing wonderful flamenco guitar. We realised afterwards neither of us actually owned a cd player anymore – but it all adds to the experience!
In terms of holiday footwear: these sandals have been it. I was after a pair of Birkenstocks in khaki (after seeing on Instagram fave @Innika) but couldn’t find a stockist anywhere, so when I saw these I couldn’t believe my luck and they are so comfortable – in fact I wore these pretty much everyday of my holiday where walking was involved.
This post was in partnership with Next, whose clothes I don’t pack my suitcase without.
To find out what my essential holiday items are, click here.
Dresses all the way for me. Lived in Bangkok for several years and I ONLY wore dresses! Love these pics…Barcelona is one of my faves x
Your trip looks gorgeous and I love what you chose to wear! Its such a great option and it looks fabulous on you! So easy and breezy!
x
Shloka
http://thesilksneaker.com
Love your dress<3
It looks super fashionable! xx
https://www.oneirojewelry.com
My Birks are my favorite go-to for travel. Literally the most sturdy and reliable sandals ever! They last forever. And pairing them with the dress just makes them look less utilitarian and more chic.
xo,
Emily
http://www.theeclecticfashionista.com
I really like your dress and the bag goes super nice with this look!
Jovita from Black Vanilla
http://www.b-vanilla.com
I love that dress, you’re right it looks so comfortable for the hot weather. Park Guell sounds amazing, would love to visit one day!
Brigitte x
brigittehayley.com | youtube.com/brigittehayley
Oh you must – Barcelona as a whole is amazing, one of our favourite cities x
Love me a Birkenstock xx
Hi Alex
Is your black Astley Clarke bracelet the nugget version or the normal one? Thanks
It’s the nugget one xx
I recently wore a pair of Birkenstocks on a trip to Madrid, my feet were in shreds after a day in them. So disappointing, as I love how they look with dresses. Must try Next for a suitable replacement!
Love your posts, they really help me when I’m packing for trips x
Oh such a shame! Not everyone can wear them – my dad’s feet don’t fit the pre moulded shape!! Thank you so much xx
What is it about high-waisted shorts that makes every girl want to wear them? Is it the convenience of having something to wear that lets the air flow into your legs during the scorching hot days of summer?