I've Been a Stylist for 20 Years—These Are the Key Buys on My Summer Wish List
Angie Smith has been a stylist for over 20 years. As our columnist, she's sharing some fashion picks from her summer 2026 wish list.
You've probably heard of Who What Wear UK Editor in Residence and celebrity stylist Angie Smith from her work with household names like Holly Willoughby, Eva Mendes, Davina McCall and Rochelle Humes. Smith has a gift for making her clients look effortlessly chic, usually on an affordable budget. She's an advocate for shopping the high street, often mixing high and low pieces in her styling, and her own wardrobe and talent for uncovering the most expensive-looking finds is unrivalled. She's here to share her expert shopping picks for the season along with some styling wisdom. Keep scrolling to see her key buys for summer 2026.
I’ve been a stylist and brand consultant for over 20 years now, and I'm a strong believer in buying less and wearing your pieces more. I've learnt from reworking clients' wardrobes that after editing them down to a smaller capsule, it becomes a lot easier to pull outfits together, because you can actually see what's in there.
Angie wears the Ilio Nema Enna Flower Mosaic Crochet Dress ($1,150) and The Horse Clementine Bag (£201)
Hello from Sydney, where I'm back in socks for the first time since March. Meanwhile, I know that a heatwave is about to sweep across Britain, calling out for the return of airy linens and encouraging stylish people everywhere to dig out their straw tote bags. Dreaming of the high temperatures that are about to arrive for you, I've channelled summer dressing for this month's edit.
With the high temperatures on the way, I spent a few hours scrolling through the new in sections, and in turn found myself curating a refined summer wish list. There are playful pops of colour, easy throw-on dresses and smart linen buys. Below, I've handpicked fourteen pieces this month that feel both directional and genuinely easy to wear. All of the styles can slot straight into your existing rotation and still feel relevant for many years to come.
SHOP ANGIE SMITH'S SUMMER 2026 EDIT
1. The Halterneck Top
The kind of top that feels put-together without trying too hard. Bust-friendly without being fussy, which is the only kind of halter I'll actually wear. I'm also eyeing up the matching trousers.
2. The Summer Skirt
There are an array of great skirts around right now but this would be my pick. Look at that red!
3. The Crochet Dress
The only crochet dress you'll need.
4. The Polished Shorts
The kind of shorts you can wear out to lunch and not feel like you've just rolled off the beach.
5. The One-Piece
Recently I've found myself reaching for espresso colourways over black. With a structured design, considered cut and pared-back look, this is the kind of swimsuit you'll rely on every time the weather heats up.
6. The Staple Shirt
Rely on a cotton poplin shirt every summer. Throw over swimwear or pair with slouchy vintage denim.
7. The Soft Scarf
The kind of scarf that you'll wrap yourself up in on long haul flights and live in on holiday.
8. The Graphic Tee
Bold enough to do all the styling for you. Pair with the most simple trousers in your wardrobe and you'll instantly have a cool summer look.
9. The Bikini
The contrasting trim lifts this bikini and sets it apart from the rest.
10. The Colourful Jeans
You had me at lilac.
11. The Striped Top
Classic, yet so effective. I love the styling with the skirt below.
12. The Airy Skirt
Restyle from city to seaside.
13. The Wedding Guest dress
Wedding guest season is on the horizon, and this is the dress I'd be picking.
14. The Striped Shirt
Vanessa Bruno cut it intentionally oversized so it skims rather than clings, which is exactly what I want from a summer shirt that needs to work tucked, untucked, knotted, or thrown over swimwear.
SHOP MORE OF ANGIE'S SHOPPING PICKS:
Mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe.
The side tie details are such a nice touch.
I can't get this Sézane blouse out of my mind.
I've been wearing these trousers on repeat.
The perfect light layer for cooler spring days.
This went straight in my basket.
Spacious, timeless and and sure to outlast the moving trends.
This is such a luxurious shade.
Sunglasses are back as an everyday essential.
I'm yet to meet a pretty lace top I don't like.
This skirt can be restyled every single season.
The shade of pink! The crushed satin! The sweet ties! Every detail is so considered.
Reach for these flip flops every single year.
Wide-cut white denim can do no wrong in my eyes. Style these with loose tops, fitted blazers and more.
This whole look is exquisite, but mainly the shirt! The cool tone is perfect.
This is exactly how I want to wear midi dresses this spring: with chunky jewellery and streamlined trainers.
No one will guess that this designer-looking blazer is a high-street buy.
The cut of these jeans is truly incredible. If you like your denim low, you have to try them.
Chic ready-made sets are just so versatile.
The perfect weekend top.
I can't get this colour out of my mind.
Effortless and enduring, this is the kind of jacket that will instantly restart your wardrobe.
Timeless with a twist. There's always space for a versatile neutral jumper in my wardrobe.
Citizens of Humanity always gets the cut right. I'm styling this pair with Western boots right now.
A raffia bag to depend upon throughout the season.
Black dresses are eternal, especially when they have a little intrigue in the design and long sleeves.
Now that the weather is starting to warm up, I'm reaching for this shirt over and over again.
This necklace sits perfectly with crewneck tees and cosy knits.
I'm into this whole look, but in particular, the sleek trousers.
I'm drawn to the soft texture of this shirt. For warmer days, I'll wear it as a light jacket.
COS's beloved cashmere knit is one you'll reach for season after season.
I love the cut of these T-shirts, and this vibrant red is calling my name.
Isabel Marant is known for its expertly crafted boots, and finally, I'm adding this suede-and-leather pair to my collection.
This dress would look great layered over straight-cut, lived-in denim. Finish with the Marant boots.
There are so many refined details I love on this shirt.
This pair is the next on my wish list. The shape is so good.
I have a thing for baseball jackets, and this one is so chic for spring.
I just know these will work hard in my wardrobe.
The prettiest embroidered shirt by one of my favourite denim brands.
A chic tote brings together style and practicality. Take simple jeans and a jumper to a more special place with this sumptuous tote.
And the boots that would look great peeking out under trousers or pared with bare legs and a skirt in spring.
I've searched for soft cashmere knits with a brushed finish, and this is my favourite so far.
It's the only time of the year that calls for contrast, and leather trousers are the first thing to cross my mind.
Wear with a simple black turtleneck and boots, or up the ante with the matching top for maximum impact.
This is exactly what I want to wear when the temperatures drop.
The cut of this pair looks so good with boots. Just add your favourite evening top.
These charmeuse trousers should also be considered for party season. Add the sparkly top above, or bring a casual edge with a cosy knit.
The shape and colour reminds me of a vintage pair of boots I borrowed from my mum.
Wear as is or add a turtleneck underneath on cooler days.
Perfect pocket placement, a vintage vibe—no endless hunting required.
