The cast of The Only Way Is Essex turned heads with their fashionable beachwear as production for the popular reality series moved to Vietnam on Thursday. This marks a significant shift for ITV, which has traditionally favoured European hotspots such as Marbella and Tenerife for its summer abroad specials. The change in scenery comes as the show introduces a fresh group of younger cast members, aiming to inject new energy into the long-running programme.
Stylish Ensembles Steal the Show
Ella Rae Wise showcased her toned physique in a striking teal bralet, paired with a matching sheer skirt adorned with a delicate floral print. She elevated her look with white heels and carried a cream clutch bag, completing a chic and coordinated outfit. Danni Imbert opted for a brown wrap mini skirt worn over a matching brown and gold bikini, creating a leggy display that was accentuated by gold heels and her blonde hair styled in loose waves.
Courtney Green embraced a bohemian vibe in a crochet maxi dress, which she layered over a dark green bikini, effortlessly turning heads with her relaxed yet stylish appearance. The trio were not alone in their fashion-forward choices, as their co-stars also brought their A-game to the Vietnamese set.
Co-Stars Complement the Scene
Livvy Jay sported a black beaded bikini top with a matching skirt, while Jodie Wells donned a white corset featuring sheer details, complemented by black trousers and a chunky belt. Elma Pazar chose a beige maxi dress with an open crochet knit fabric and a halter neckline, worn over a white bikini and matching flip-flops for a casual yet elegant look.
On the male side, Junaid Ahmed kept it classic in a red polo shirt and matching shorts, and Freddie Bentley opted for a white vest with dark trousers. Dan Edgar displayed his gym-honed physique in patterned swimming trunks, adding to the diverse array of styles on display. The cast were seen jumping onto rickshaws as filming got underway, capturing the vibrant local atmosphere.
Cast Changes and Absences Noted
This series sees a shake-up with the introduction of a new group of 18 and 19-year-olds joining the cast, a move intended to resonate with the show's audience on ITV2. A source highlighted that while TOWIE has always featured younger faces to drive drama, the shift to Vietnam might surprise long-time viewers accustomed to the classic settings of the Sugar Hut and European holidays.
Notably absent from the Vietnam trip are familiar faces Amy Childs and Lauren Goodger. Sources indicate that both have decided to skip this abroad excursion due to busy work schedules, allowing the younger cast members to take the lead. Despite their absence, they will still appear in the series, with filming continuing simultaneously in Essex to ensure the drama remains plentiful.
An insider explained that cast selection for abroad trips is often storyline-dependent, aiming for the right mix of personalities to fuel engaging narratives. ITV has been approached for comment regarding these developments, as the show continues to evolve with its new international backdrop and refreshed cast dynamics.
