In the first of our My Summer series we catch up with designer Zena Presley to talk style and summer.
Where are you jetting off to this summer?
I plan two summer trips every year. One is always to Lebanon to see family and friends and there is always a big wedding or two to attend! So it’s always an eventful week of celebrations, which means of course outfits need to be planned and dresses need to be ready.
And the second?
The second destination is different every year. It’s been a while since I have had a European summer, so I’m considering Spain. I visited Barcelona in January - it was my first time and really made me want to go back.
Tell us, what are your travel essentials?
I have to say, my outfits! I get overly excited about my travel outfits. I put down schedules and write down detailed lists of everything that I’ll be wearing.
Do you have any favourite dining spots on your travels?
I love trying all the traditional spots, which is where you normally try something you haven’t tasted before - when we choose to have a fancy dinner we always go for seafood or sushi.
See some of Zena Presley’s travelling highlights^
What will you be wearing this summer?
Summer is all about colour, so of course I will be wearing a lot of Zena Presley. I also love the fact that a lot of the pieces can be taken from day to night, which is perfect for travel when you are out all day
Who are your go-to bikini brands?
I love Zimmerman and Mara Hoffman, they incorporate print so well into their designs and make gorgeous one piece swimsuits.
And for poolside accessories?
Clover canyon always has beautiful cover-ups. They are all about colours and prints, which is exactly what I love. I also have a thing for Missoni’s beach accessories - whether cover-ups or headbands - their prints have such a luxurious summer feel.
What’s your staple beach-ready workout?
Joey Atlas - a 15 to 30 minute effective workout that keeps your body in its summer shape. It’s perfect for a busy summer on the move.
Your most memorable summer ever?
I am torn between so many remarkable vacations, but the most memorable one is definitely the summer of my engagement last year. Two weeks of festivities and getting to see all my friends and family.
