Founder Fiona Hodges Picks What To Wear Where This Christmas
FAMILY FUN CAPE TOWN
Where to Stay: The Belmond Mount Nelson
Famous for being painted the cutest shade of pink and known by fans simply as ‘The Nelly’, this old-world hotel blends colonial nostalgia with gorgeous gardens, a glorious swimming pool, the glamorous Planet champagne bar and a ridiculously extravagant afternoon tea. The staff are unflappable, the day spa a true escape.
Which piece to pack: The Rosie Dress and The Ava Romper
Fiona says: “This is such a winning combination, really fun, I loved creating both the grown up and mini version. When it comes to the dress it’s all about the drawstring waist, billowing tiered hem and delicate ruffles. In my experience children love the comfort of rompers.”
BEACH BABE MEXICO
Where to Stay: Hotel Esencia
This beautiful beachside hideaway, a world away from the massive, showy resorts strung along Mexico’s oh-so-ruined Riviera, is typically tropical with fantastic guesthouses: cool white décor, mahogany doors, breezy sea views and refreshing garden plunge pools. Come here to truly unwind and enjoy a two-mile secluded beach under the watchful eye of sun-worshipping iguanas.
Which piece to pack: The Mercedes Maxi Dress
Fiona Says: “I just love the parrot print, it just screams tropical! Ideal for a location like Mexico which is so vibrant and itself tropical. This dress is also made in one of the loveliest, softest fabrics – cotton voile, perfect for hotter climates.”
CITY BUZZ SYDNEY
Where to Stay: Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel
Escape the main city and stay at the newly refreshed Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel located on the shores of Sydney Harbour with wonderful beaches and cliff top walks nearby but only 30 mins from the city by ferry. The look is white washed Hamptons chic and a cocktail at The Beach Club is a must.
Which piece to pack: The Emma Dress
Fiona Says: “This is the perfect dress for that beach/city combo holiday. It’s ideal for wearing out shopping in the afternoon and then for going on somewhere like Doyles on The Beach (Watsons Bay) and feasting on calamari, jumbo prawns or simple fresh fish.”
CHIC RETREAT BAHAMAS
Where to Stay: The Dunmore, Harbour Island for pink sand beaches, privacy, peace and divine super stylish yet simple cottages. With names like Coral West and Pink North expect crisp cotton beds, linen and rattan clad sitting rooms, candy striped umbrellas, rum punches. There’s a tennis court and pool but you’re likely to spend most of your time on one of the best beaches in the world.
Which piece to pack: The Grace Maxi Dress
Fiona says: “Made of the lightest, crisp white Swiss dot cotton this dress is the ultimate day to balmy-evening dress – its effortlessly chic, extremely feminine and has beautiful elbow length puff sleeves. I adore it. You can find this maxi dress at The Sugar Mill, India Hicks' iconic shop on Harbour Island.”
GOA A GO GO
Where to Stay: Paros by Amarya
There are many ways to do Goa, but we like this one best. Off the beaten track, unusual, quirky and boho, this place is less hotel, more luxury tents right on the beach - how cool is that? On a secluded section of Turtle beach, there’s yoga, pretty walks, markets to visit, the sea and all the charm of India to experience.
Which piece to pack: The Millie Endless Summer Dress
Fiona Says: “If only summer was endless, I could live in this dress forever! It’s pretty, flattering, comfortable and white is ever stylish. It’s a can’t-go-wrong piece.”