I'm a Stylist—Here Are 7 Expensive-Looking Summer Outfits I Plan on Copying

You might think that, after being a stylist for almost a decade, I’d have a wardrobe full of winning outfits by now. And yes, to some extent, I have built up a number of classic formulas over my time in the industry—a blazer and straight-leg jeans, for example, or a midi dress and heels. It really helps to have these formulas on busy mornings to avoid those "I have nothing to wear” moments that can so easily push your whole day out of sync. But it’s also easy (and normal) to get a little tired of wearing the same combinations over and over again. Fashion is about having fun with your outfits, after all. And so each season, when I’m in need of some inspiration to get a little more inventive, I open Instagram and scroll to see what some of the most stylish women I know are wearing right now.

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Not only does this help me focus on which pieces I’d love to invest in for the new season, but it really helps me think of new ways to style pieces I already own. I have classic taste that errs on the side of minimalistic, so often, all I have to do is think of new combinations to freshen up my wardrobe staples. Of course, I’m always drawn to effortless, expensive-looking outfits first— you know, outfits built from affordable pieces that make you look polished and, well, rich. So I thought I’d share some of the best affordable summer outfits I’ve seen recently to give you an idea of what I’m copying this season. Feel free to use this as a resource to come back to throughout the season when you’re in need of inspiration and tips and tricks for making elevated outfits on a budget.

Keep scrolling to see the seven best outfits I’ve found recently. I’ve also added shopping links in case you want to buy any of these pieces to build out your summer wardrobe.

1. Linen Shirt + Linen Shorts + Black Accessories

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(Image credit: @basicstouch)

SHOP THE LOOK

2. White Dress + Tan Sandals + Straw Accessories

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(Image credit: @bubblyaquarius)

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3. Short-Sleeve Shirt + Black Trousers + Strappy Sandals 

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(Image credit: @bellathomas)

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4. Linen Co-ord + Oval Sunglasses

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(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

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5. Beige Trousers + Tank Top + Shirt 

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(Image credit: @slipintostyle)

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6. Waistcoat + Jeans + Strappy Sandals

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(Image credit: @smythsisters)

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7. Jumpsuit + Thong Sandals + Woven Bag

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(Image credit: @thandimaq)

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Up Next: H&M's Linen Collection Is the Easiest Way to Look Expensive This Summer

Emily Dawes
Affiliate Editor

Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for the Who What Wear brand.

Emily has worked for Who What Wear UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely with Who What Wear UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, team Who What Wear is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.

Prior to joining the Who What Wear team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.

When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.

Emily is currently on maternity leave.