With the UK basking in a mini heatwave this past week, I've been living in linen shirts, oversized sunglasses and flat leather sandals, and it's got me in full summer mode. Usually, I'm straight on a plane the second the weather warms up, but this year, I'm doing things a little differently. I've got a long staycation planned at the start of summer (think garden BBQs, spontaneous day trips and early evening walks with an iced coffee in hand), before heading abroad later in the season, which means my wardrobe needs to work twice as hard. I've already been re-wearing the core pieces that always make up my summer uniform—flowing midi skirts, easy striped poplin shirting and a great cotton dress—but with sunnier days ahead, it's time to fill in the gaps. I'm not starting from scratch, but I've realised there are a few considered additions I could use to make old favourites feel fresh again and help me get through this early burst of heat without defaulting to a T-shirt and skirt every day.
When it comes to adding newness to my wardrobe, there's one retailer I know I can rely on for getting it just right. NET-A-PORTER always seems to get ahead of the curve—not in a trend-chasing way, but with a quietly confident edit that feels like it's been pulled together by someone who knows what they're doing. The new-in holiday selection, in particular, has become a go-to for me. I like that it covers both sides of my summer: the breezy, relaxed pieces I'll wear at home and the slightly more elevated styles I know I'll reach for on holiday evenings. What I appreciate most is that the edit doesn't feel overwhelming. Rather, it's curated in a way that makes me feel like I'm building a wardrobe, not just aimlessly adding things to my basket. I'm not trying to overhaul my style; I'm just thinking about the smart, stylish things I'll actually wear to rooftop dinners in London, for long travel days, beach lunches and everything in between.
This season, I'm honing in on versatile staples that still feel special. I've got my eye on pieces that tap into the current mood (yes, I'm still thinking about waistcoats and long skirts) but won't date by next summer. I'm adding soft linen trousers and a sweet blouse that can be dressed up with gold jewellery for dinner or thrown over a bikini at the beach. I've also found a shirt dress that works for layering now and later, which is ideal for warm weekends in the city or with sandals on holiday evenings. There's a shirred piece that plays well with last summer's sandals from The Row (still going strong), and a raffia tote that's spacious enough for daily wear but elevated enough to take on a plane. It's the kind of shopping that feels practical rather than impulsive, and there are so many options I know I'll be reaching for well beyond the current season. Keep scrolling to see the 19 summer-ready pieces that made the cut.
Shop My Favourite New-Season Pieces at NET-A-PORTER:
Lightweight, floaty and perfectly cut—a midi skirt is just right for holiday dressing.
A classic Alighieri piece I've been eyeing for ages. It's that final touch that makes even the simplest summer outfit feel considered.
I'm leaning into the waistcoat trend, and this one feels wearable with its relaxed tailoring. It'll work with matching trousers or just good denim.
Toteme's oversized stripes always look good. This is the kind of throw-on shirtdress I wear on repeat, especially over swimwear or with long shorts.
Structured and lightweight, this is roomy enough for all daily essentials.
Tailored linen with a wider leg—ideal for looking put-together on hot days without breaking a sweat. These would look great with an oversized white shirt and minimalist sandals.
I wasn't into brightly coloured caps until I saw this one. It's also a way to tap into the butter-yellow trend, and it actually shades your face properly, so it's a win-win.
Shirred dresses are everywhere again, but this one feels modern with its clean silhouette. It'll be perfect with flat sandals and a bikini underneath.
I mean, how could I not add these perfect sunglasses into the mix?
Yes, it's a splurge for a white blouse, but the cut is impeccable. I've worn a similar one from the brand endlessly since last summer, and it's only got better with age.
Chunky, chic and very wearable. I own these in chocolate brown, and they always make me look so polished in the summer. Plus, the leather's really soft.
Dôen dresses are practical, chic and always on-trend. I'll throw this on with everything all summer long.
Everyone's favourite Loewe basket bag, now in a new colour for summer 2025.
This is very La Dolce Vita.
The scooped neckline is so flattering, and the coverage is just right. It'll also be great under linen trousers or as a bodysuit with denim.
Pearls + gold = subtle perfection.
The woven texture adds a subtle detail, and the white leather goes with everything. I've seen these styled with maxi skirts and minimal tanks—perfection.
My fellow Who What Wear UK editor has worn these for two summers running and has just picked them up in another wash. The low-rise fit feels fresh and not overly trend-led.
Is it even a summer edit without a sweet poplin dress to always have on hand?
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