The Edit: 5 Fashion-Forward Pieces to Wear on Summer Vacation

Words by Shreya Wankhade

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The time has come. No more bundling up in multiple layers and dreading the sun setting in the middle of the day. Summer is finally upon us. But what to wear on vacation can often be one of the most fraught fashion conundrums for many women, usually leading to agonizing over “bikini bodies” or “summer bodies”. Needless to say, the perfect vacation look should be the one that lets you feel confident and comfortable, wherever you are spending your summer, and even better if there is an element of sustainability to it. So, as you plan your getaway to sunnier climes this summer, here are five pieces you wouldn’t mind taking along with you, and they are all available to shop on The Folklore Marketplace right now.

The bikini

Summer getaway means beach and beach means water, which means a bikini and Nigerian fashion designer Andrea Iyamah’s Kuwa bikini is the perfect summer swimwear. Flattering and stylish, it comes in various colours, from olive green to a cocoa brown but our personal favourite is the Blush version, which complements just about any skin tone. The Kuwa bikini has a fashionably cut top with removable pads and flattering high-rise bottoms that are designed to be as comfortable as possible.

The coverup

You can’t pack a swimsuit without packing a robe. Andrea Iyamah’s Zadie Robe will pair perfectly pairing with any swimsuit (as well as the Kuwa bikini set). The long printed robe is elegant, simple and most importantly breathable. The distinct grapevine design along the sleeves of the robe effortlessly emphasizes the way they flare out from the elbows, adding a little fun and character to your getaway look.

The hat

Well-chosen accessories that not only look good but serve a purpose are a great way to add some personality to your vacation look. Zashadu, one of Nigeria’s leading sustainable luxury brands, has got you covered for pieces that aren’t only fashionable but also protective. Handwoven in Lagos, this oversized Raffia Sun Hat is the perfect headgear for shading your face from the sun, thanks to its wide brim. The natural straw material it’s made from also means it will go well with anything you pack in your suitcase.

The dress

After a day spent on the beach or laying by the pool comes evening drinks at the bar or a moonlit dinner, which calls for comfortable clothes you can dine in. Look no further than the chic maxi dresses from resortwear label Lemlem, the brainchild of Ethiopian supermodel Liya Kebede. The consciously made Bahiri dress has a striking flaterring V-neckline with a stylish tiered skirt that will look good on anyone. The light blue, white and orange color combination will suit all skin tones – tanned or not – and offers plenty of styling or accessorizing options, whether dressed up or down.

The bag

Every vacation needs a casual summer-ready bag that will easily go from beach to bar and the Bata Woven Bag, also from Andrea Iyamah, is the ideal for warm climes. Made from 100% Nigerian raffia, produced through a crotchet weaving process, the statement design is compact yet spacious enough to hold your phone, wallet and sunscreen. It stands out for its unique spherical shape that’s detailed with raffia tassels along the edge, while its cotton canvas-lined interior will keep your belongings sand-free and secure.