(Relaxnews) - After a recent UK report revealed the average woman wears 28 different outfits during a weeklong holiday, Relaxnews offers help for ladies looking to downsize their vacation wardrobe with a guide to ten essential summer basics.

The plain maxi dress

Versatility is key when it comes to holiday fashion, and you can't get more adaptable than a simple maxi dress, which can be worn as a poolside cover-up during the day as well as looking effortlessly glamorous on a night out with the simple addition of some statement jewelry. Another bonus -- it's easy to simply roll up in your suitcase AND suits all body types.

The on-trend playsuit

Like the maxi dress, a playsuit makes an ideal day-to-night transition piece as well as being ideal as a bikini cover-up thanks to its loose and light shape. On-trend prints for this season include tie-dye, floral, stripes and geometric.

Tailored shorts

Another easy way to save space is to invest in a pair of smart shorts that will look just as good for a daytime museum trip as they would for an evening dinner. On-trend materials for Summer 2012 include silk and suede, while pleats, a high waist and skinny belt add extra panache.

The printed scarf

A colorful printed scarf adds instant interest to a simple outfit, as well as acting as an impromptu cover-up for evening walks on the beach or over-air conditioned plane or train journeys. Check out You Tube guru Michelle Phan's practical guide to wearing a scarf in an impressive seven different ways here: http://youtu.be/KzPV0iXBANs

The fun beach bag

Holiday season is the time to ditch your beloved Birkin and invest in a low maintenance beach bag with a cheerful print and enough space to handle holiday essentials such as beach towels, sun cream and seaside reading.

Chic sandals

While a casual pair of flip-flops or espadrilles provide daytime comfort, it is important to invest in a pair of sandals smart enough to see you through into the evening time too. Summer holidays are no time for Jimmy Choos or Louboutins, so introduce an element of glamour with gold gladiators or beaded sandals.

Statement jewelry

While traveling with expensive jewels can be risky, a quick trip along the high street proves there's no need to go accessory-free on vacation thanks to the large variety of affordable pieces on offer. Chunky statement necklaces in strong colors will liven up a plain dress for the evening, while nothing sets off a tan better than bronze or gold.

Circular shades

Sunglasses are undoubtedly the most important holiday accessory, although it's better to hit the high street and avoid misplacing your high-end favorites as you dip in the sea. One of this season's most popular styles is the circular frame, which has been particularly popular with Beyoncé Knowles and Lady Gaga of late.

The versatile swimsuit

The ultimate capsule holiday must-have is the swimsuit, because not only will it serve you well on the beach, but it can also be worn as a bodysuit during the daytime with tailored shorts or palazzo pants. Sites including Net-a-porter and ASOS.com have a variety of this season's most stylish variations, ranging from cut-out detail monokinis to retro 1950s-inspired options.

The beachside cover-up

Ideal for lounging by the ocean, a printed kaftan or sarong gives even the most basic bikini a hint of Eastern mystique, as well as acting as the perfect cover-up for any unsightly lumps and bumps or cellulite. For ladies lacking in sarong tying skills, fashion website style-passport.com has a useful guide on how to create a sarong dress in a few quick knots: http://www.style-passport.com/news/editorial_images/sarong-green.jpg

Copyright (AFP RELAXNEWS), 2012.