How To Dress For A Yachting Holiday

Your best friends have hired a yacht somewhere in the Pacific, and you have to pack a capsule wardrobe that will see you through sun-filled days on deck, chilly evenings under the stars, potential stormy weather, and high-octane glamour when at port.

You are limited for space (the cabins on board simply cannot cater to your extensive luggage requirements) and the variety in weather, temperature, ports, and days on deck will not make it easy to refrain from taking your entire summer wardrobe.

On the other hand, those who prefer to take minimal belongings on a boat trip should be reminded that a certain amount of modesty is needed when holidaying and boating with friends - nude runs on deck are simply not the norm even by Baywatch standards. Careful wardrobeplanning, therefore, is essential to enjoying your 'breaking the waves.'

The first rule on deck is to forget about high heels. However much you are addicted to wearing them on land, they are useless - and even dangerous - on a boat. The deck itself is sensitive to the sharpness of the heel and you could easily ruin the finishing and damage the wood. Not a good way to start of with your host or yacht-owner. Instead, wear comfy flipflops or plimsoles, or alternatively opt for something with a rubber sole. Flipflops come in a variety of colours and decorations and as they are good value for money, you can invest in an ocean of colours to match your outfits. If you are finding it difficult to stray from the season's must haves, bring along your platform wedge sandals. Still, you'll probably find yourself walking about barefoot most of the time running to grab a cocktail, or for paddling in the sea.

The second rule on deck has to do with the choice of swimwear. This is your chance to work on your tanlines and show off your figure so find a bikini or onepiece to suit your shape. The first rule of thumb as that one size doesn't fit all. Be pragmatic about patterns and cuts that suit your body shape. Also, go for something that has spandex. This may sound scary, but lycra-based fabrics can smooth out lumps and bumps and are generally more flattering.

Other on-deck must-haves include kaftan tunics, tiered gipsy-style skirts, smock tops and white cotton trousers. Don't forget a cardigan or warm jumper for breezy nights under the stars. And, seeing as boating and yachting are marine activities, you'll need something stripey. Navy, white and red can be very sexy, if worn a la Yves Saint Laurent.

And lastly, a yacht holiday offers great escapes from reality. You tend to forget about your mortgage, your dog, and everything else that isn't sur la mer, so enjoy it while it lasts.