For many belonging to ‘generation X’ one of the most memorable childhood events can be the introduction of the package holiday in the 1970’s. This made it possible for normal people to take a whole family abroad for a week or two to a magical a land of warmth and relaxation.
Air travel became possible for many people for the first time which added to the convenience and enjoyment of their annual European adventure. The Costa Blanca has been a favourite happy place in many lives ever since and there are few things more fun than a vacation exploring the many delights this area has to offer.
A vivid array of sunlit umbrellas randomly lighting up the long sandy beaches is a resplendent sight when set against the water and the sky, which gleam in the heat in high season.
These vintage silk scarves lift the spirits and are perfect for travelling and channel the celebratory nature of this time of year and the arrival of weather for cruising along somewhere in France, Spain or Italy. The sea tones and swirls looks like it could be by Emilio Pucci but we are not sure and the purple one is a design by Yves St Laurent. Any good accessory departments will have a selection for this season. They are such adaptable pieces they would also make a statement as cushion covers or if you don’t like to wear them they could even be framed as eye-catching artwork.
In Alicante we were awestruck with the gorgeous jewellery that caught our eyes as we strolled past the fabulous windows at Coolook. There were so many pieces that are the sort of luminous real gems that could be worn anywhere to bring along the glamorous vibe and natural charm of this stunning coastline. Like fruit flavoured sweets Coolook jewellery will add juice and sparkle to any August outfit.
The blue glass palm trees and turquoise glass droplets cascading from the ceiling make an unusual and appealing display for this pretty boutique’s treasure trove. All the colours of the rainbow were represented all around this large shopping district that is anchored by the spacious El Corte Ingles department store.
Like some spectacular retail fiesta, a kaleidoscope of plain bright pieces are the order of the day when the temperatures hit thirty degrees and above. This year everyone is invited to try out the all-in-one jumpsuits, floaty dresses and voluminous shirts often embellished with embroidery anglaise or bold crochet detailing to continue the midsummer folk festival theme.
Spanish brands like Mango, Zara, Massimo Dutti, Bimba Y Lola, Stradivarius, Desigual and Bershka all have creative, fashion forward designs with super and often sophisticated collections. These splendid Spanish boutiques can confidently compete with any successful London and Paris clothing companies.
We were also really excited to discover the strikingly neat cobalt and yellow fabric stacks in the double height entrance to Julian Lopez. Blown away by the scale of this store we were thrilled to find such variety in stock. Alicante’s destination store for everything to do with sewing and dressmaking, it was wonderful to find such a well stocked emporium extending around three floors.
The prices were very tempting, so we will definitely be heading back to top up our textile stashes, from Lopez’s awesome array of different hues and materials. Making your own uniquely simple Kaftan cover up or floaty sarong is easy and there are lots of free tutorials online. It is a pleasure to choose from such an amazing selection of beautiful bolts and radiant rolls.
As the thermometer heads up to the high thirties its time to enjoy wearing your best saturated threads, paint and decorate your home and garden with pops of intense tints to be at your best and brightest like the finest midsummer flowers along the Mediterranean.