We’re heading into peak holiday season, when half of London disappears somewhere sunny and the other half takes to the city’s parks and ponds in search of relaxation.
It’s hard not to feel a little envious when your pals start posting pictures of their latest cocktail by the pool while you’re sweating on the Piccadilly line to the office. But a few key purchases are all that stand between you and a sojourn in the sun – London’s many outdoor pools, parks and riverside spots can give you that holiday feeling without leaving the city.
Let eBay’s vast array of summery sellers furnish you with your own place on the sand, stylishly espadrilled feet and the gentle clink of boules on a lawn – not to mention a golden holiday glow.
You know it’s summer when you’re sitting in the sun drinking something silly. Bring a taste of Cancun to the capital with an ice-cold margarita in an unbreakable glass.
£3.99 | Shop on eBay
This little spray is every stylist’s secret weapon when it comes to recreating the artfully tousled effect of an afternoon on the beach. So even if you’ve spent the weekend in the city, you can look like the girl from Ipanema.
£18.99, 125ml | Shop on eBay
The espadrille has long been the low-key shoe of choice for effortlessly stylish Mediterraneans padding from beach to beach bar. These striped espadrilles could have walked straight off the sand – and they'll last the summer, with rubber soles that can withstand a bit of city slicking, too.
£7.99 | Shop on eBay
This line from London tanning expert James Read is the product fashion editors use to give their models that you’d-never-know-it glow. This kit has all you need to create a realistic tan, even when it’s rainy out.
£14.99 | Shop on eBay
When the sun shines in London there is no better place to picnic. This multipurpose blanket will shield you from wet grass, provide the perfect canvas for your lunch and roll up neatly into a foldable carry bag when you’re on the move.
The sound of one boule clinking against the other will transport you to a village in France at apéritif time. Take this set of steel boules to the park and watch the Big Smoke transform into the Côte d’Azur.
£14.95 | Shop on eBay
A Turkish sheet is one of those purchases you’ll end up packing for your holiday every year. It doubles up as stylish sarong, picnic blanket, tablecloth and towel – and looks like something you bought at a far-flung souk.