For me summer holidays are all about totally unwinding and really letting go. Every summer I go to my family destination in Versilia, Italy, which I have been going there since I was born. Full of memories and childhood friendships, it’s my little hidden gem where I like to escape to. Away from the chaos and hectic life of the city, I find myself immersed amongst the tranquility of the northern Italian coast.

Not a care in the world, it’s nice to let go. Make up free, hair totally reacquainted with frizz and sea salt tingling on my skin, it’s always good to be back. My style on holiday is probably best described as very minimal, casual and a touch of chic just for good measure. It is for this reason that for me The White Company is the perfect shopping destination to visit when looking for laid back Summer essentials that become your must have staples. Here I’m sharing three looks while cavorting in my favourite places.

Casual About Town

Forte Dei Marmi (meaning the marble fort) is a cute chic destination that has lured the likes of Michelangelo, Puccini and Andrea Bocelli just to name a few. A town that exists because in the 16th century the great Michelangelo built a road to transport his marble to the ships. In fact it is situated not far from the Carrera Quarries where the infamous Carrera marble comes from and where Michelangelo cut his stone. I totally geek out at things like this because it’s knowing a town’s history that really makes a place that extra special. Streets filled with pine trees in an orderly manner you can’t help but fall in love with Forte Dei Marmi. Not to mention all the luxury boutiques they have which are perfect for window browsing and admiring a far. Preferably the best time to go is off season, May, June and September are months where it is pure Italian heaven and full of enchanting allure.

Keeping it casual but cool at the same time I opted for the perfect linen shirt because quite frankly you can never have too many linen shirts. While the majority of holiday goers totally dress up with luxury designer brands and high heels that even lady Gaga would be envious about, I like to keep it simple. For me comfort comes first and to be honest I believe you can look chic without being OTT. Here’s my look while wandering the streets of Forte.

Here I am Wearing

Brompton Boyfriend Shorts

Linen Stripe Hem Shirt

Straw Basket

Flat Suede Tassle Sandals

All from The White Company

Beach Livin’

Nothing makes me more happy than being by the sea. Just sitting on the beach and gazing from the distance brings a real sense of calmness. It’s my happy place and it’s in my blood. My mother is from this part of town and it is where she grew up. I can see myself in the future living by the sea but for now I still remain a city girl, who needs to occasionally break free from the hectic schedule and immerse myself in total tranquility. May & September is possibly my favourite time as the beaches are empty. The Italian coast is all about the beach clubs, with their carefully curated huts and umbrellas mounted on the beach. I personally prefer it when it is a raw affair and the beaches just lay bare.

Monochrome beach style is always my first port of call. Black swimwear is pretty much my daily uniform. If it ain’t broke why fix it, is my motto.

Here I Am Wearing

Twist Front Bikini Top

Tie Side Bikini Briefs

Long Silk Beach Cover Up

All from The White Company

Evening Aperitivo

Sunset could possibly be my favourite part during the Summer holidays. Here in Italy it’s all about the aperitivo, a ritual that us Italians take very serious and one in which we pride ourselves to be very good at. If you ever happen to be on holiday in Versilia, then a place I would highly recommend is Pietrasanta, a picturesque and quaint medieval town. It really is a hidden gem and Piazza del Duomo will leave you breathless. A place known for its marble and bronze workshops, it’s the hub of so many international artists. Again Michelangelo frequently visited Pietrasanta to learn skills from local artisans. Here you will find temporary exhibitions, art galleries, boutiques that make this town extra special. Make sure to enjoy an Italian aperitif in one of the bars facing the square, you’ll thank me later.

The perfect fashion choice for me is a simple maxi dress and I have fallen in love with this black silk one. For chillier months pair it with a leather or denim jacket, and ankle boots can finish the look off. Come warner evenings and strappy sandals are always my favourite.

Here I Am Wearing

Silk Maxi Drawstring Dress

Flat Leather Tassel Sandals

Both from The White Company

Bag from Balenciaga

This post is in collaboration with The White Company. Views and styling however are my own and I only feature brands that I truly love. 

Photography Riccardo Calamini.