The best sale buys for a holiday at home

Unless you got lucky with the green list, your summer holiday this year might look less Saint-Tropez and more St Albans. With that in mind, there’s no time like now to build up a staycation-worthy wardrobe of ‘buy now, wear forever’ pieces. From bold and beautiful dresses to built-to-last accessories that’ll work well with what you already own, the sale has everything you need to complete your pretend packing list.

There’s nothing better than a single piece that’s so powerful, it requires nothing else to make it look good. This summer, pick up dresses and jumpsuits in bright colours and strong patterns that promise to make an impact, such as this paisley print dress for And/Or. ‘This dress is a nod to the trend for all things 70s, with the beautiful paisley print in tonal blue,’ says John Lewis Stylist Olivia Robinson (who is pictured above wearing the dress). ‘It’s the perfect bright and colourful addition to your summer wardrobe.’ We’ve also got our eye on floaty linen jumpsuits, wear-anywhere blouses and anything from Kin.

Accessories will often be the first thing you think of when it comes to holiday purchases, so why should a staycation be any different? While a beach bag might be unnecessary, select pieces that’ll serve you beyond the season: investment sunglasses you’ll hold onto for years, chic jewellery that will complement workwear, and statement shoes that you can wear well beyond the season. Speaking of which, Olivia highly recommends the above pair of And/Or court shoes. ‘Who doesn't want to grab a pair of heels in the sale?’ she says. ‘This bright orange pair adds Ibiza glam to any outfit and helps take jeans from day to night.’

Take advantage of no baggage limits and use your staycation as valuable time to experiment with the latest and greatest in beauty. From makeup that’s worthy of a first video date, to face, hair and body wonder-treatments that’ll give you the spa effect at home, everyone deserves to treat themselves.