The high street may be filling up with new season pieces, but if you’ve yet to jet off on your summer break, this is exactly where you can still find stylish and affordable holiday fashion.

Let’s face it, not all of us get to escape from work during peak vacation time. Many prefer it that way, saving annual leave for the quieter stretch from late August into September, once the school rush dies down. However, opting for late summer shouldn’t mean settling for end-of-season dregs. If you’re like me, you’ll want pieces that make you feel good, style that won’t break the bank, and yet still looks super polished. Well, these are the stores I always rely on to deliver. Yes, they are on it with those autumn/winter collections, but they also have some seriously gorgeous heat-wave-friendly pieces for that last-minute holiday or for right here in scorchio UK.

If you’re like me, you’ll want pieces that make you feel good, style that won’t break the bank, and yet still looks super polished.

Ashling, Contributing Style & Interiors Editor

1. H&M

A heads-up, this favourite has just stocked up on its swimwear… and it’s all divine. It takes a lot for a swimsuit to be mood-boosting, but H&M has taken that torch.

A person sits on the floor against a white wall, wearing a white bikini top and a light beige embroidered shirt—relaxed and ready for any last minute holiday plans. With legs crossed, arms at ease, slicked-back hair, and a serene expression, they embody effortless getaway style.
Broderie nglaise cotton beach shirt
H&M, £27.99
A person looks down while wearing a light beige embroidered shirt over a white bikini—an effortlessly chic look perfect for a last minute holiday. The shirt is unbuttoned, revealing the bikini underneath. The background is plain and softly lit.
Broderie Anglaise Cotton Beach Shirt
H&M, £27.99
A woman stands against a light background wearing an orange button-up shirt with rolled sleeves and dark brown cut-off shorts, her left hand in her pocket—ready for a spontaneous last-minute holiday adventure.
Raw-edge Denim Shorts
H&M, £17.99
A woman with long dark hair stands barefoot on a green stone floor, wearing a sleeveless, sheer white lace dress over a white bikini—perfect for a last minute holiday escape. She stands against a white textured wall, her shadow cast beside her.
Pointelle-knit Beach Dress
H&M, £37.99
Woman with long brown hair wearing a brown one-piece swimsuit with cut-out details and gold hardware, standing against a white wall in natural light—perfect inspiration for your next last minute holiday getaway.
Padded-cup High Leg Swimsuit
H&M, £32.99

H&M has long been my go-to for designer-inspired fashion at affordable prices. From knockout beach cover-ups to the most glamorous swimwear, this high street icon has your holiday wardrobe covered, even if you’re jetting out for end-of -season fun.

A person with short hair stands sideways, wearing an oversized white button-up shirt over a white top, outdoors near a chain-link fence—capturing the relaxed vibe of a last minute holiday.
Linen-blend Shirt
H&M, £27.99
A pair of brown open-toe slide sandals with cut-out geometric straps, placed side by side on a light-coloured surface—perfect for slipping on during your last-minute holiday getaway.
Sandals
H&M, £19.99
A person poses against a plain background, wearing a leopard print bikini—perfect for a last minute holiday—with arms raised and hands near the face, looking downwards.
Padded Triangle Bikini Top
H&M, £14.99

2. Mango

For something a little elevated, I always head to Mango. I adore the brand’s classics, tailoring, and essentials. Plus, anything I ever wear from this store always gets a compliment. Now that’s always going to make a person feel good.

A person with long blonde hair wears a light blue halter dress and crosses their arms over their chest, standing against a plain light background—capturing the relaxed vibe of a last minute holiday.
Draped Halter Dress
Mango, £69.99
A woman with long blonde hair wearing a light blue, sleeveless, backless midi dress and black heeled sandals stands sideways against a plain light grey background, perfectly styled for that effortless last minute holiday getaway.
Draped Halter Dress
Mango, £69.99
A woman with dark hair in a low ponytail wears a light yellow shirt dress—one of our top holiday fashion picks—and carries a large green woven tote bag under her arm against a plain white background.
Natural Fibre Tote Bag
Mango, £59.99
A person with curly hair wears a loose white playsuit with spaghetti straps and elasticated cuffs, paired with black sandals, standing against a plain light background—an effortlessly chic choice for last-minute holiday outfits.
Baggy Jumpsuit With Belt
Mango, £55.99
A person wearing a black long-sleeve top, white trousers, and black flip-flops with red straps is reclining on the floor against a white background, looking relaxed with hands behind their head—capturing the carefree vibe of a last minute holiday.
Leather Strap Sandals
Mango, £39.99
Woman wearing a white blazer, black vest top, black shorts with white trim, black sunglasses, and black sandals, standing against a plain white background—a chic look perfect for last minute holiday fashion.
Striped Linen-cotton Blend Shorts
Mango, £29.99
A person with slicked-back hair wears a sleeveless beige top over a white vest and white trousers, standing against a plain white background—one of our favourite fashion picks for effortless holiday style.
Boat-neck Top
Mango, £15.99
A woman wearing a white vest top, a white mini skirt with broderie anglaise details, brown sandals, and gold bangles stands against a plain white background—an effortlessly chic look perfect for your last minute holiday.
Cotton Skirt
Mango, £35.99

3. Free People

If you’re wondering what to wear on a last-minute holiday, Free People has all the bohemian, sun-drenched inspo you could ask for. From crochet hats to floaty maxi dresses, you’ll find everything you need for your tropical escape.

A woman in a flowing light green dress stands outdoors amid lush greenery, adjusting her hair with both hands—capturing the carefree spirit of a last minute holiday. Palm trees and a blurred view of water are visible in the background.
free-est Dixie Maxi Dress
Free People, £108
A woman in a long, light green dress stands outdoors among lush tropical plants and palm trees, with the sea and waves visible in the background—capturing the carefree spirit of a last minute holiday.
free-est Dixie Maxi Dress
Free People, £108
Woman stands outdoors in sunlight, eyes closed, wearing a loose white sundress with a red beaded necklace—a striking image that evokes the carefree joy of a last minute holiday. Her long dark hair is wet, and there are tropical leaves in the background.
free-est Zina Cotton Tunic
Free People, £58
A woman with brown plaited hair wears a yellow crochet sun hat and a loose-knit cream jumper, sitting against a neutral background—ready for that effortless last-minute holiday escape.
Cut-Out Daisy Crochet Straw Bucket Hat
Free People, £40
A woman with curly hair sits on a pavement in sunlight, wearing a white T-shirt, red shorts, and tan lace-up sandals, looking at the camera—capturing the carefree spirit of a last minute holiday.
Under the Sun Wrap Sandals
Free People, £98

If there was a label to entirely epitomise the true heart of summer, it would be Free People, every time. Free-spirited, floaty, beautiful and made for sunsets and sun rises.

A woman in a white, loose outfit and brown sunhat stands outdoors near the sea, eyes closed, enjoying the tranquil breeze of her last-minute holiday, with one hand holding her hat under a partly cloudy sky.
free-est Bea Top
Free People, £40
Woman in a maroon one-piece swimming costume poses on a beach with blue sky and clouds in the background, her long dark hair blowing in the wind—perfect inspiration for your next last minute holiday.
Keyhole One-Piece Swimsuit
Toast, £134
A woman in a light yellow blouse and denim shorts stands against a white wall, her head tilted and hair loose. With a peach bandana tied at her waist and sunlight highlighting her face and outfit, she exudes relaxed confidence—perfectly capturing the carefree spirit of a last minute holiday adventure.
We The Free Tippi Denim Shorts
Free People, £78

4. Zara

Perhaps a no-brainer, but honestly, Zara almost never fails. Admittedly, it is hard not to get distracted by the new season fashion, but this high street fave is still serving up some gorgeous resort-style pieces.

A woman stands on rocky terrain by the sea, wearing a light floral top and matching shorts, with flip-flops—perfect attire for a last minute holiday. The sky is clear and blue, and she looks at the camera with a relaxed expression.
Floral Print Shorts
Zara, £25.99
A person stands on rocky terrain wearing a light, floral-patterned sleeveless top and matching shorts with lace trim, soaking up the sun under a clear blue sky—a perfect outfit choice for a spontaneous last minute holiday.
Floral Print Shorts
Zara, £25.99
A woman in a swimming costume and sunglasses relaxes on a large brown outdoor lounger by the water, enjoying her last-minute holiday with her legs stretched out and wearing grey flip-flops. The background shows trees and a sunny sky.
Wedge Sandals
Zara, £39.99
A person in a loose white outfit and black sandals stands on rocky terrain, with one hand on their head, looking down, as if savouring the spontaneous freedom of a last minute holiday, against a clear blue sky.
Straight Trousers
Zara, £27.99
A woman wearing sunglasses, a strapless floral scarf top, and denim shorts walks outdoors on a sunny day in front of a white fence, capturing the carefree vibe of a last minute holiday.
Mom Fit Shorts
Zara, £25.99
Woman stands against a plain white background wearing a one-shoulder, cut-out, ankle-length leopard print dress and black sandals. She has long wavy hair and a neutral expression—perfect inspiration for last minute holiday outfits that look effortlessly chic in your holiday fashion photos.
Animal Print Long Slit Dress
Zara, £25.99
A woman in a red swimming costume stands against a rocky background under sunlight, capturing the effortless vibe of a last minute holiday. She has long brown hair and is gazing towards the camera with a serious expression.
Plunging V-neck Swimsuit
Zara, £35.99
Woman wearing oversized sunglasses, a yellow ruffled sleeveless top with a chequered pattern, and white trousers, standing against a plain white background with hands in her pockets—perfect inspiration for your next holiday fashion look or those spontaneous last minute holiday pics.
Gingham Top
Zara, £25.99

5. & Other Stories

H&M’s sister label is definitely not hiding in the shadows with its covetable collection of modern, yet relaxed cuts. From luxe swimsuits and statement-worthy separates to quality accessories, & Other Stories is a reliable, yet exciting treasure trove of the latest fashion for any season.

Woman wearing a bright blue V-neck swimming costume and beige sunglasses, with wet, slicked-back hair, standing against a plain light background—perfect inspiration for last minute holiday fashion photos.
V-Neck Swimsuit
& Other Stories, £57
Woman wearing a bright blue one-piece swimming costume and sunglasses stands against a plain white wall, looking forward with a neutral expression. She has long dark hair and is accessorised with silver bangles—capturing effortless last minute holiday fashion perfect for your holiday fashion photos.
V-Neck Swimsuit
& Other Stories, £57
A woman, embodying holiday fashion, wears sunglasses, a sleeveless white top, and a bright orange midi skirt as she stands holding a straw bag. She completes her look with black sandals and a brown scarf. The background is plain and light-coloured—perfect inspiration for your last minute holiday fashion pics.
Cotton Midi Skirt
& Other Stories, £87
Person wearing a long white skirt and tan suede sandals with double buckles, standing on a concrete floor—perfect inspiration for effortless holiday fashion. Only the lower legs and feet are visible.
Buckled Leather Sandals
& Other Stories, £109
A woman wearing a white vest, white shorts, and a patterned headscarf holds an orange bag—a perfect look for those seeking last minute holiday style inspiration. She accessorises with a shell necklace and silver bracelet, posing against a plain light background for effortlessly chic holiday fashion pics.
High-Waist Cotton Shorts
& Other Stories, £57

Over the years, & Other Stories has always delivered, especially when I’m on the hunt for a fresh new Tee or a last-min bikini panic. Picture it, you’re grabbing a flight straight after work, with a carry-on packed with the ultimate holiday capsule wardrobe, only to realise you forgot the essential: a swimsuit. Cue a speed shop to & Other Stories. Sorted.

Woman wearing a yellow bikini holds a large brown knitted bag with a patterned scarf—an effortlessly chic choice for last-minute holiday outfits. She stands against a plain white background, looking down with one hand on the bag, ready to inspire your holiday fashion photos.
Straw Tote Bag
& Other Stories, £87
A silk scarf with a brown border, featuring a blue section with thin stripes and a section with a detailed geometric pattern in brown, white, and blue, is laid flat but appears gently gathered in the centre—a perfect accessory to elevate your holiday fashion and make those holiday photos truly stand out.
Printed Silk Scarf
& Other Stories, £57
A woman stands against a white background, wearing a cream blouse, olive green knee-length shorts, black sandals, and holding a large grey handbag—an effortlessly chic look that’s perfect for last minute holiday fashion. She accessorises with gold bracelets and a necklace, making this outfit ideal for spontaneous holiday fashion photos.
Pleated Bermuda Shorts
& Other Stories, £97

6. Karen Millen

You know you’re on to something when a brand has a section dedicated to last-minute holiday essentials. Karen Millen has done exactly that with an edit of sleek numbers perfect for the sophisticate on holiday.

Woman stands against a dark rock wall, wearing a colourful, patterned halter-neck jumpsuit with flared legs and sandals—a perfect holiday fashion choice for capturing memorable holiday photos. She has loose, wavy hair and a relaxed pose, gazing at the camera.
Satin Viscose Multi Print Trouser
Karen Millen, £99
A woman in a patterned, multicoloured dress with geometric designs stands beside a dark rock, looking down with partially visible face and wavy hair—an effortlessly chic look perfect for your holiday fashion inspiration.
Multi Print Top
Karen Millen, Was £89 Now £71.20
A woman in a white, long-sleeved belted dress stands against dark rocky cliffs, resting one hand on her head and gazing at the camera—a timeless choice for effortless holiday style.
Bead Detail Belted Mini Dress
Karen Millen, Was £279 Now £223.20
Woman with straight brown hair wearing cat-eye tortoiseshell sunglasses and a blue denim top, looking slightly to the side against a plain background—perfect inspiration for your holiday fashion or last minute holiday snaps.
Cat Eye Sunglasses
Karen Millen, £75
A woman in a strapless brown top and matching billowy trousers stands beside a white outdoor staircase, surrounded by lush green foliage, wearing sandals—a perfect snapshot of holiday fashion for those last minute holiday getaways.
Crepe Sheer Mix Woven Jumpsuit
Karen Millen, £159
Person wearing a sleeveless white maxi dress, dark sunglasses, and brown sandals holds a woven straw bag whilst standing against a plain white background—perfect inspiration for last minute holiday fashion or creating effortless holiday fashion pics.
Pintuck Midi Dress
Karen Millen, £139
A pair of flat slide sandals with beige soles and wide, brown-trimmed fabric straps featuring cut-out designs—perfect for effortless holiday fashion or adding a chic touch to your last minute holiday looks.
Bok 2 Weave Slide Sandals
V.GAN, Was £59.99 Now £38
A woman in a stylish two-tone swimming costume stands by a pool with her hand on her hip and water glistening on her skin, effortlessly showcasing the latest in holiday fashion.
Nudos Golden
Paola Amador Swimwear, £99
Accessories, Fashion, Outfits, Trending Fashion

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