10 Elevated Outfits Our Fashion Editors Wear on Rotation in Summer
Although our editors relish the challenge of getting dressed year-round, we agree that our favourite time of the year to assemble outfits for is summer. Sure, spring and autumn may present the opportunity to finesse our layering techniques, and who doesn’t love slipping on a duvet coat and toasty boots on the crisp days of winter. But summer? There’s euphoric freedom in not having to give too much thought to the weather and not having it restrict your ensembles. So when given free rein, what are the summer outfits our fashion editors love to wear? Let’s find out, shall we?
Below, my colleagues and I have outlined the summer outfits we love to wear in the warmer months. Considering we didn’t exchange ideas beforehand, I was interested to see that we each selected fairly classic get-ups. Featuring staples including white dresses, tan sliders, gingham checks and wide-leg denim, we’ve essentially curated an elevated summer capsule. Scroll on to enjoy!
Hannah Almassi, Editor in Chief: Printed Dress + Sun Hat + Comfy Sandals
"This is the visual representation of my dream summer outfit and happy place: On the beach with a breezy midi dress on (nothing too plain), a cute hat to bring a bit of wow and some simple sandals I can spend all day in.”
Shop the Look
Remi Afolabi, Video Content Creator: Pretty Top + Wide-Leg Jeans
"The jeans-and-a-nice-top outfit combination serves me well year-round. In summer, I tend to favour wide-leg denim to keep me cooler. Then, I reach for a white blouse with some sort of sleeve detail, and I’m good to go. Oh, and a tiny bag will never hurt.”
Shop the Look
I hear such great things about these jeans.
Coperni bags still keep cropping up on IG.
Poppy Nash, Managing Editor: White Shirt Dress + Basket Bag + Striped Jumper
"Whenever I’m not sure what to wear, I go for a dress. In fact, I'd say 98% of the time between the months of May and September I am wearing a dress. My go-to is always a white style, and ideally it's loose, floaty and easy to just throw on and go. My ultimate accompaniments are a basket bag to chuck all my essentials (sun cream, a book, a phone charger!) in, and then a layer. Stripes and a white dress always work in my eyes."
Shop the Look
A puff sleeve and oversized bow? This dress is so on-trend.
Remy Farrell, Shopping Editor: Cotton Shirt + Shorts + Sliders
"A soft, light cotton shirt just might be the most versatile thing in my summer wardrobe—it makes the perfect cover-up without covering up too much. What could make it any better? Well, matching shorts of course. Double up on print or colour with a cotton co-ord, and thank me for introducing you to the easiest instant outfit there's ever been. As for sandals, I need a chunky sole for comfy wear, so I know leather slides go with everything I own.”
Shop the Look
With Nothing Underneath is our go-to for featherlight summer separates.
Just look at that cloud soft, cushioned sole and tell me your feet wouldn't thank you.
Emily Dawes, Affiliates Editor: Strappy Dress + Gold Jewellery + Tan Sandals
"In my opinion, you just can’t beat a simple white dress in summer, especially layered with gold jewellery, simple tan sandals and a cute basket bag. Wherever you are in the world, you can be confident this combo will always look chic.”
Shop the Look
This necklace will give any outfit instant polish.
Joy Ejaria, Social Media Editor: Black Sundress + Bright Bag + Mules
"Black dresses are one of the chicest things you can wear, whatever the time of year. In the summer months, I love giving mine a lift with a bright handbag—this orange colour feels so on-trend right now, too. Finish with mules, and this is a look I know I can rely on for anything.”
Shop the Look
Bottega Veneta always understands the assignment.
From weddings to lunchtime Aperols, these shoes will become your summer go-to.
Eleanor Vousden, Beauty Editor: Lace Blouse + Tailored Shorts
"Now travel is back on the cards, I’m already planning my next summer city break. In my suitcase, I always pack a pair of white shorts and a lace top. It works for daytime sightseeing with sandals and can be dressed up for evening with a pair of heels, saving crucial room in my carry-on bag!”
Shop the Look
This is a piece you can thrift, but I also enjoy Marks and Spencer’s take.
Maxine Eggenberger, Deputy Editor: White Dress + Sunglasses + Basket Bag
"My go-to summer outfit centres on the white dress. I have so many already in my collection, yet every year, I’m tempted to treat myself to a new one. Right now, I have my eye on this Dôen beauty. Just add sunglasses and a basket bag, and this look will translate anywhere, be it for brunch in the city or on holiday at the beach.”
Shop the Look
The shapely bodice on this dress will enhance an hourglass silhouette.
Sophie Cookson, Insights Manager: Swimsuit + Linen Trousers
"Linen trousers are a particular favourite of mine, they keep you cool without bearing too much skin. You get double points for wearing bright linen pants. I might look like a carrot in this, but I love to combine it with a clashing coloured swimsuit. It's perfect for the beach and covered enough for a spot of lunch."
Shop the Look:
There's a reason Hunza G swimsuits have garnered a cult following.
Jerrylyn Sanguiped, Affiliates Manager: Tank Top + Long Skirt + Leather Sandals
"My go-to outfits in the summer almost always centre around a vest top. I love feeling the sun on my skin and I'm all for easy dressing, so this is by far the item of clothing I find myself reaching for most. I've paired it with a bright maxi skirt and leather sandals. I'd also usually chuck on a light over-shirt or cardi for the cooler evenings."
Shop the Look:
Add a pop of colour to brighten your outfit (and your day).
Our editors all agree, a chunky leather sandal is a very wise investment.
Next Up, 10 Double Tap–Worthy Summer Outfits We've Spotted on Instagram This Month
Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.
Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.
Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in Europe
Classic looks that are always in style.
By Natalie Cantell
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This Winter
You're welcome.
By Eliza Huber
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the Distance
I'm going to use it this weekend.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
This Timeless Color Combo Is Defining the Season's Chicest Outfits
Anti-trend but so forward.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
After 15 Years as a Fashion Writer, I Know These Free Style Tweaks Will Make a Big Impact
How to give your wardrobe a new lease on life.
By Emma Spedding
-
These Are the Buzzy Color Trends Everyone Will Wear With Jeans in 2025
Prepare your wardrobe.
By Natalie Cantell
-
5 Fresh Ways to Wear Basic Black Leggings This Winter
Some extremely relatable outfit inspo.
By Natalie Cantell
-
6 Chic and Effortless Outfits Everyone Is Wearing in Paris Right Now
File these away for a rainy day.
By Natalie Cantell