You’ve just booked the holiday of a lifetime; you’re jetting out with your best mates to a desert island. You are counting down the months, weeks and days until you land on foreign soil and begin creating memories that will last a lifetime. The only thing that is left to do is start thinking about what you’re going to pack for your time in the sun. To help you out, I’ve come up with 5 fashion fixes for your summer suitcase: the absolute summer 2013 must-haves.

Iconic Panama hat

So many Panama hats, so little time!

The legendary brimmed straw hat is a seasonal must-have accessory, and the most renowned and well respected hat type in the world. In Ecuador where genuine Panama hats are crafted, they’re called sombreros de paja toquilla and are made of palm fibre. Panama hat gained its iconic status when President Theodore Roosevelt wore one on his visit to the Panama Canal.

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Bold metallic heels

Le Silla Metallic Heels

What to do to be as bold as you like without saying a single word? It’s easy this summer! Go for the undeniably elegant metallic heels that will finish sultry day or night looks with a shock of elegant shimmer. Be it boyfriend jeans or girly dress, silver, gold or just coloured metallic can be worn as a statement with chic neutrals, or as a colour-compliment to just as bright separates. Beware: the heels lend a super modern look.

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Itsy bitsy crop top

Crop top for summer

Your stomach might just be on display in the coming weeks since an itsy bitsy crop top is taking streets by storm. If you’ve been hard at work in the gym before your holiday and want to get noticed, this might be your new best friend. Wear it with bleached denim pants and canvas sneakers for the ultimate 90s-inspired look, or a floaty maxi skirt and oversized sunglasses for a laid-back boho chic look.

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Beach-chic straw bag

Stunning 1950’s wicker handbag

Ready to hold all your essentials in style? The ladylike bag featured in summery straw usually works as a casual beach bag, but this time it is handy for your daily commute. If you miss warm evenings by the shore but are forced to spend summer in the city, this seasonal accessory will easily transtition your wardrobe into summer. From the farmers’ market to the stylish soirees, the beach-chic bag has it all: seasonal style, practicality and versatility.

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Frumpy Bermuda shorts

Distressed bermuda shorts

Though this versatile baggy short which stops just above the knee, won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. The unfitted design is far from a frumpy style and definitely the most comfortable of short formats. Bermuda shorts are brilliant for foreign holidays where you want to keep cool but need to respect the local’s opinions on showing too much skin. Choose from both patterned summer designs and tailored smart-casual styles especially dedicated to the office.