The high summer temperatures are putting our summer wardrobes to the test right now, and if you're wondering how to stay chic in the heat, I'm here to help. For some, the prospect of a new season means a complete overhaul of their wardrobes, and whilst I agree that there is a shift between the seasons, this doesn't need to be an annual reset. Instead, a well-edited summer wardrobe that can outlast the trends and bring a polished feel to summer dressing every single year is the smarter option. And if you're wondering where to start, I've curated a refined edit of anti-trend summer staples from H&M that will ensure you look exceedingly chic on the hottest days on a budget.

The secret to looking put together throughout the summer months is to rely on great staples. Whilst they might not be the most invigorating buys, they are the most worthwhile. Sleek linen trousers can be mixed and matched with pretty blouses, elegant dresses thrown on with sandals and a basket bag, and if you're looking to take your outfits up a notch, you can play around with accessories. But having solid foundations will ensure you never wonder what to wear in the heat.

Over my many years working in fashion, I've found that 7 summer basics come back every single year, and are able to hold their elegant credentials regardless of the moving trends. And if you want to create a chic summer wardrobe on a budget, H&M's expensive-looking styles always come through. With the help of considered silhouettes, linen blends and intricate detailing, the brand's pieces can often be mistaken for expensive buys, and all come with a dose of timelessness to ensure that your 2026 purchases hold their place in your wardrobe for many years to come. With the mercury high, it's time to add a touch of polish to our outfits. Now, scroll on to shop the 7 anti-trend summer staples H&M has perfected this year.

Shop the Best Anti-Trend Summer Buys from H&M

1. Light Trousers

2. Elegant Dresses

3. Chic Shorts

4. Pretty Tops

5. Oversized Shirts

6. Loose Skirts

7. Summery Accessories

The summer solstice marked the arrival of the new season, and in response, the temperatures are about to skyrocket. Right now, many of us are booking rooftop restaurants for the weekend, planning picnics in the park and adding fans to our Amazon basket (with a discount thanks to the Amazon Prime Day sale). Now, it's time to figure out what we're going to wear for the scorching hot days. Personally, I'm looking to Zara, H&M and COS to bring their innate elegance to warm-weather dressing, and make the stifling days exceedingly chic.

This year, my goal is to take on the heat with a serious dose of sophistication. Of course, I have a few trusted outfits I go to, but this year I want to take them to a whole new level. Whilst a tank top and cut-off shorts can do the trick, there are plenty of elegant outfits that are just as breezy, but feel much more put-together. And that's where great summer staples come in.

Looking to our trust high street heroes, Zara, H&M, and COS have bolstered their summer offerings with a series of refined summer staples which make elegant dressing so easy, even on the hottest days. Light fabrics of cotton and linen bring an airy edge to all aspects of our wardrobes, allowing us to play with silhouette and proportion to make the hottest days both breezy and polished. The best thing about stocking up on summer staples is that they can be depended upon every single year. The airy linen trousers you buy for 2026 will hold their place for many years to come, just like the pretty dress you pair with simple sandals and a basket bag. As high temperatures are rare in this country, we all want to make the most of them, so forget scrolling for hours through the new-in sections. Instead, I've curated a refined edit of mix-and-match summer staples from Zara, H&M and COS that stylish people rely on every year to take on the heat. Now, scroll on to shop, and enjoy the sunshine!

Shop the 9 Chicest Zara, H&M and COS Summer Staples

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This summer, I want to redefine the notion of a summer basic, because basics do not have to be boring. Taking a look at what stylists and trendy tastemakers are wearing, I curated a list of pieces that are simple yet striking, ensuring that you’ll never reach for a simple white t-shirt or settle for an average pair of jeans again.

My findings? A simple browse through Zara, M&S and H&M will arm you with the best summer basics, without having to spend a fortune on elevated staples whilst still ensuring you look and feel incredibly stylish.

You see, when I'm in a rush, I’ll always reach for summer basics, making me somewhat of an expert in shopping this category. My formula is quick and simple: flip-flop kitten heels (or ballet flats), baggy pants and a tank top or button-down. Easy and effortless, especially when paired with sunglasses. You'll definitely look like you took longer than ten minutes to get ready for the day. So, when it came to updating these trusted favourites, these were the exact pieces I looked to refresh first.

Flip-flops are everywhere and in all shapes and sizes. I am personally ecstatic about this because they are low effort and a great way to show off a fresh pedicure. Go bold next time you're at the nail salon and slip on some fun flip-flops, whether they are platform, kitten-heeled, or flat; the possibilities are endless.

Barrel-leg jeans are another favourite of mine. They give that expensive, designer-looking structure without the crazy price point. I was suspicious when this trend first emerged a few years ago, but I have become quite smitten with them.

The best part about these pieces is their versatility. They can be mixed, matched, dressed up, or dressed down, depending on your plans. I want to feel excited to get dressed this summer, and I think this list will allow for that.

So, whether you’re ready to update your own wardrobe or are just curious about the high-street staples I stocked up on this season, scroll through for the best summer basics from Zara, H&M and M&S.

The Best High-Street Summer Basics from Zara, M&S and H&M

The Best High-Street Summer Basics from Zara

The Best High-Street Summer Basics H&M

The Best High-Street Summer Basics M&S

With summer on the horizon, the new collections have officially landed, and one in particular is all I can think about. This summer, H&M is leaning into what it does best, blending trending items with timeless accents, updating our classics and bolstering our capsule wardrobes with a series dose of sophistication at a fraction of the price. With so many sleek pieces in the new arrivals section, I decided to take a break from the sunshine and spend a few hours putting these expensive-looking items to the test. Now, I’ve curated a refined summer edit entirely of H&M new-in buys.

My personal style is based on high-low dressing, which means I like to mix my high-street buys with a few luxury accents. Of all the affordable pieces I own, I get the most compliments on my H&M treasures. From elegant dresses to sleek linen sets, so many of my friends and colleagues have been convinced that I’ve spent a fortune updating my summer wardrobe, when in fact a few affordable additions from H&M have done the heavy lifting for me.

Whilst many wouldn’t want to escape the sunshine for a changing room, H&M’s new collection made it worthwhile. What makes this collection feel particularly elevated are the colourways, proportions and fabrics. Longline lengths add a grown-up edge to shorts, flowing maxi dresses are designed to float through the hot summer days, and cool wrap details are applied to shirts to freshen them up as we head into the new season. In my selection, a healthy dose of cotton and linen has been applied for a breezy edge, from the best-selling linen to the airy blouses. Alongside, you'll notice a touch of polish from intricate details of embroidery and Broderie anglaise, making our sweet tops and relaxed shorts feel a little more considered this season. Now, let's dive straight into the most expensive-looking buys that are sure to sell out first, and more elegant H&M buys that I spotted along the way.

Shop the Rich-Looking H&M That Will Sell Out First

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We're currently in the midst of our second heatwave, which means I've reached the point in summer where I want exactly one thing from my wardrobe: an easy dress. The kind that looks polished with minimal effort, feels comfortable in soaring temperatures and requires little more than a pair of sandals and a great bag. This year, the dress trend ticking every box? Embroidered dresses—and Zara and H&M are leading the charge.

There's something about embroidery that instantly elevates a dress. Whether it's delicate eyelet detailing, intricate cutwork or broderie anglaise panels, these subtle details bring texture, interest and a touch of romance to even the simplest silhouette. They feel feminine without being overly sweet and add that expensive-looking quality fashion people are always searching for in summer.

The beauty of the trend lies in its versatility. This season, embroidered details can be found on everything from breezy minis and easy daytime midis to dramatic floor-skimming maxis. Whilst white remains the perennial favourite, I'm also seeing beautiful navy, butter yellow, soft pink and rich red iterations that feel equally timeless. Effortless, elegant and surprisingly practical in hot weather, embroidered dresses are quickly becoming the chic woman's answer to summer dressing.

Keep scrolling to shop the best embroidered dresses from Zara and H&M.

Shop the Best Embroidered Dresses From Zara and H&M:

With the high temperatures set to return, my calendar is steadily filling up with a series of al fresco plans. Park picnics are set for the weekend, spontaneous rooftop dinners are being squeezed into evenings, and now I'm readying my wardrobe to take on the heat in style. Looking expensive and staying cool this season are my main priorities, and my wardrobe is calling out for a few new additions to bring that final touch of polish to my summer looks. With £100 to spend, I turned to the brands that do expensive-looking high street buys so well: Zara, COS and H&M.

When putting together our summer wardrobes, it can be easy to think that you have to spend a serious amount of cash to embody an elegant summer mood. Actually, if you know where to look, there are plenty of high-end passing pieces that could convince any onlooker that you've invested a lot in your summer wardrobe. My first port of call is Zara, COS and H&M, each with its own specific way of creating expensive-looking pieces at a fraction of the price. Zara excels in intricate throw-on dresses and sweet blouses, whilst COS brings a luxurious edge through quality linen and cottons throughout. H&M's tailoring comes into its own in the warmer months, making it the place to go for smart trousers, longline Bermuda shorts and summer-ready denim.

Whilst the three have particular strengths, they all excel in various categories, and if you have the time to scroll through, there are a series of refined buys at affordable prices waiting to be discovered. If you don't have the hours to spend searching, I've done the hard part for you. From throw-on dresses to loose summer trousers, elevated accessories to classic shirts, scroll on to explore the expensive-looking Zara, COS and H&M buys that no one will believe cost under £100.

Shop the Best Under £100 Buys at Zara, COS and H&M

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A H&M box big enough to fit myself inside it arrived on my doorstep the other day. Like a summer fever dream, it was full to the brim with linen. Linen dresses, linen trousers, linen shorts—you name it, I ordered it. All in the name of research—obviously—because this week I was tasked by Who What Wear to report on the best H&M linen buys to invest in for summer 2026, and I don't do things by halves. So, the entire H&M linen collection went in my basket for me to put to the test, and report back on the pieces that are actually worth your money.

I'm not just talking, "Oh yeah, this shirt's nice enough"—you can be certain I've only included picks below that I genuinely believe your summer wardrobe can really benefit from. Pieces that will elevate it, and make it look expensive (without you actually having to spend loads). I'm picky when it comes to high street buys, because I'm usually in the camp of 'spend a bit more on a lot less' to ensure your wardrobe stands up for years, not just seasons. But I'll admit, I've been shopping H&M linen for years and I do back the quality after pulling my favourites out year after year and putting them through their paces myself—especially when you invest a bit more in their premium selection linen which I highly recommend.

So, without further ado, keep scrolling to see the best H&M linen buys I tried on for summer 2026. I've added in styling and sizing tips but, for reference, I'm 5'2" and a size 10 in most retailers. My picks below are the most versatile pieces that looked and felt expensive, fit well and were easy to throw on and style whether for the beach or the city.

See and Shop My H&M Linen Try On:

1. Oversized Linen Shirt & Wide-Leg Trouser Co-Ord

Style Notes: From H&M's Premium Selection edit, this co-ord is a bestseller that comes back year after year, and I can see why. It's so versatile—because it's a two-piece it feels really polished with heels and jewellery for evening, or throw a swimsuit underneath to pad out to the pool on a beach holiday. Of course, both the shirt and the trousers are great worn individually as well. It's a linen blend with viscose, so it's breathable and light but with an expensive-looking silky drape to the fabric which doesn't crease as easily as 100% linen. There's currently four colours available—white, black, brown and beige, although they're all selling out quickly.

Size Notes: The set has a very oversized fit. I'm wearing a small in the top and trousers and they were still very loose on my petite (5'2") frame. However, I do think high street pieces look more editorial and expensive when they're oversized, hence why this made my edit. Scroll on to see my try the beige version as well...

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I don't know if there's a world in which a beige linen shirt and trousers co-rd isn't chic.

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2. Brown Linen Halterneck Dress

Style Notes: Let me tell you, this Premium Selection dress is truly gorgeous—and I'm not a dress person at all. The 100% linen fabric feels thick, sturdy and subsequently it looks very expensive IRL. Perfect for summer weddings—especially for the minimalists among us. It's effortless with a heeled sandal but it equally pairs well with a flat like I've tried here, ideal for that relaxed holiday vibe.

Size Notes: I'm wearing a medium here, although since I don't have a big chest I could probably have gone for the small. It's nice that the halterneck (which has thick straps) allows for some level of support and adaptability as well.

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3. Linen Shirt & Shorts Co-Ord

Style Notes: While a linen co-ord is a pretty timeless buy, I was conscious that a short set might be feeling a little overdone by now. There are so many iterations around, that it can easily look quite cheap. However, I immediately took all of my doubts back after slipping on this thoughtfully designed, 100% linen two piece. The shirt quality is impressive (the set is part of the brand's Premium Selection). It's got such a fresh-feeling boxy fit, with vents on the sides of the hem and a beautifully wide camp collar that could easily pass for a much more expensive Faithfull, or perhaps With Nothing Underneath design. The shorts fit perfectly, too, and most importantly it was effortless to throw on, heatwave-proof and felt really polished worn together.

Size Notes: I'm wearing a size medium in the top and bottoms, so the pieces are true to size or you could size up for that more expensive boxy feel.

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4. Linen Beach Dress

Style Notes: I think I just hit the jackpot with this perfect beach dress. In fact, it's so good I packed it straight into my suitcase for a trip I'm taking next week. It's exactly what you want this kind of dress to be—especially when beating the heat is the incentive. Light and airy with a beautiful waft to it—the maxi length is elegant, yet the low back still manages to make it feels sexy. It's ideal for throwing over a swimsuit or dressing up for dinner on holiday. Just add a great tan, your favourite sandals and a basket bag.

Size Notes: I'm wearing a medium here, but I could have sized down to a small since it has a loose, oversized fit.

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5. Linen Suit

Style Notes: Not only does this suit look really expensive, it felt it too. With a nice crisp linen finish it's breezy enough to keep you cool in the office, but it still has enough weight to it so it doesn't crease easily or feel flimsy. Design details on the blazer like the curved lapel and belt all add to the polished effect. The trousers impressed me less so, because while the pleat-front design and linen fabric felt elevated, the fit and the tailoring has clearly been a little overlooked. However, as part of the set they do the job very well and I couldn't think of a better summer power outfit for work.

Size Notes: I'm wearing a medium blazer and a 10 in the trousers, with both feeling just oversized enough to look more expensive.

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6. Oversized Linen Shirt & Linen Bermuda Shorts

Style Notes: Both of these pieces caught my eye when scrolling through H&M's new linen collection, and I wasn't disappointed when I eventually tried them on. The bermuda style makes for an elevated take on shorts, perfect for summer workwear. These are lightweight but still smart, with well tailored pleat-fronts, pockets and expensive-looking buttons. Personally, I'd always pair with a heel, even a low one like these kitten heels to balance out the boyishness and proportions given my 5'2" height.

The Premium Selection shirt isn't just any old high street linen shirt either, with it's slightly cropped sleeves, wide cuffs, and slouchy oversized shape—not to mention that expensive shade of olive green.

Size Notes: The shorts I'm wearing are a 10, although I've had to pin them at the back so I'd suggest sizing down as they fasten high on the smaller part of the waist. The shirt is an XS, so take into consideration it's quite roomy.

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7. White Linen Shirt & Linen Wide-Leg Trousers

Style Notes: I love a classic neutral palette as much as the next person, but in summer a pop of red really lifts fresh white. This Premium shirt has a unique, almost pointelle, finish which sets it apart from the more basic styles on the market. And the trousers are H&M's bestselling style, back in stock for another year in this gorgeous red (although there's 11 other colours on offer too). They're ridiculously comfy, with an adjustable drawstring waist, but being made from a linen viscose mix, they fall with a smart, silky weight to them.

Size Notes: As you can see the white shirt is loose and fits big but, again, I personally think the slouchiness elevates it. Size down once or twice if you prefer a classic fit though, or I'd suggest considering the more traditional shirt below in the white version. For the trousers, I'd size up for that relaxed feel and to allow for any shrinkage which can offer occur with linen.

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8. Striped Linen Shirt & Tailored Linen Trousers

Style Notes: If you're looking for the ultimate linen shirt for an affordable price, you're in luck. This one is 100% linen, part of H&M's Premium Selection (meaning better quality and therefore better longevity) and it has a really classic fit—not too slim, not too oversized—making it perfect for tucking in and not feeling too bulky. It also comes in six timeless colours no less.

The trousers are another great tailored option, with a crisp and clean finish (although again, the finish on the tailoring is obviously not as premium as, say, COS).

Size Notes: I'm wearing a 10 in the trousers which fit well, and the shirt is a small which gives a classic fit. I'd suggest sizing up in the shirt if you're after more of a beach throw-on vibe, though.

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9. Drawstring Linen Trousers

Style Notes: Chocolate brown makes for a really polished alternative to black or white linen trousers, while still remaining classic. And I love the drawstring details on the sides which just set these trousers apart from the rest of the standard front-tie pairs on the market. Importantly, they don't seem to crease very easily from a brief stint of testing, and they come in a gorgeous butter yellow too.

Size Notes: I'm wearing a size small here, and they fit nicely true to size. If you want a more relaxed look on the leg then you could size up and still be able to adjust the waist with the drawstring.

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10. Puff-Sleeve Linen Blouse

Style Notes: How cute is this pretty white linen top? Another hero from the Premium Selection range, and I couldn't not include it. I just know I will wear this on repeat this summer. It's giving Dôen vibes for such an affordable price!

Size Notes: I'm wearing a Small and it fits true to size.

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If there’s one antidote to the unpredictability of British summertime, it’s the promise that the grey clouds will always eventually clear, making way for blue skies and warm weather, despite how long it takes for these bluebell days to arrive. As such, it’s always important to arm yourself with a balmy summer dress that can see you through. This season, the options worth your investment are insurmountable, meaning that there are countless new-in styles all vying for a spot in your wardrobe.

Across London, you’ll find ethereal prints and slinky silhouettes inside Réalisation Par’s new Mount Street flagship, gorgeous floaty floral midis at Rixo’s iconic King Road boutique and the full spectrum of occasionwear dressing at Reformation’s Covent Garden store. There are also establishments like Selfridge’s, which serve as a dress emporium and service every occasion and style under the sun, from the effortlessly contemporary cuts of brands like DISSH to the more architectural and minimal silhouettes of St. Agni.

Lest we understate the offerings across the high street, too. At Zara, trending prints like polka dots and classic motifs like crochet and lace are on full display. Meanwhile, at Mango, a recent co-sign from Hailey Bieber has further cemented the retailer as the master of blending effortlessly cool silhouettes with contemporary trends. Of course, we need to acknowledge the offering at H&M, too. At an affordable price point, the brand makes elegance accessible with graceful lace-trims, delicate broderie anglaise details and satin slips.

Still, we’d be remiss if we excluded mentioning the paragon of summer dresses. Dôen continues to dominate this category with romantic minis that feel right at home inside a 17th-century French château or the sun-kissed coastline of California. Faithfull the Label continues to inspire our Euro Summer wardrobes with a collection of dresses inspired by the shades and styles of Spain’s rugged Costa Brava. Chloé brings a nostalgic bohemian sensibility to summer dressing with ethereal minis and vintage botanical illustrations.

Suffice to say, there are plenty of new-in summer dresses to marvel at. So, whether you’re daydreaming about the next time you get to wear one or are very much manifesting sunshine by picking one up now, continue scrolling through for our meticulously curated edit of the finest new-in summer dress styles to covet.

Shop the Best New-In Summer Dresses for 2026

As a shopping editor with years of experience hunting down the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, my friends often call on me for fashion advice. Whilst the weather takes a quick interlude from the high temperatures, I found myself daydreaming of warm days in the South of France, and evidently, I'm not alone. My best friend texted me to ask for help building her summer wardrobe, but with one precise demand: to create a French Riviera-worthy wardrobe on a budget. Luckily for her, I'd already found a series of refined pieces at Zara and H&M.

When Zara and H&M launched their summer collections, I was immediately transported to the Côte D'Azur. The languid silhouettes, breezy textures, and refined details all embody the relaxed attitude of French dressers in the summer. At Who What Wear UK, we often look to our French friends for style inspiration due to their innate way of looking polished whilst relying on staple summer buys which can be restyled for endless outfits. Trust me, I've lived in the South of France and spent countless summers studying their effortless ease, and now I've curated a sophisticated edit which will exude French refinement whether you're jetsetting this summer or simply strolling through the city.

The best part about embracing French style is that it depends on simple pieces that can hold their place in your wardrobe for years. Think a breezy linen shirt, wide-leg trousers and timeless basket bags that will outlast moving trends, but also feel incredibly considered. Silhouette sets the great pieces apart from the good, with long-line shorts over mini cut-offs, sweeping maxi and midi dresses, and of course, relaxed fits for added comfort on the warmest days. Below, you'll find 12 pieces I sent directly to my best friend, as well as a few extras that will complement any refined French wardrobe.

Shop 12 French-Inspired Zara and H&M Buys:

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While most people might cringe and shudder at '80s fashion making a comeback in 2026, there's one retro trend rearing its head that fashion people are fans of. No, it's not oversize costume jewelry or shoulder pads. Striped jeans are having a major moment this summer. From pinstripe varieties loved by Ayo Edebiri to the bold and colorful pairs Spanish women are wearing, striped jeans are poised to be this season's biggest denim trend by far.

Although I can't say I predicted it, personality-first denim is having a moment. Printed jeans, embellished denim, colorful washes, and pastel pairs are all signaling the fashion set's move toward fun, bright, funky denim ahead of the new season. Ahead, see how the coolest people on Instagram are styling their striped jeans along with the best pairs to buy and more must-have summer items featuring this rising print trend.

See More of Summer 2026's Striped-Jeans Trend

Striped Jeans on the Style Set

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For most of us, the goal on the hottest days is to look chic, feel good and get into the sunshine as soon as we can. For me, that doesn't mean standing in front of my wardrobe trying to figure out what to wear. Instead, I call upon my summer capsule wardrobe to do the heavy lifting for me. This edit of great basics ensures that every time I open my wardrobe, easy outfit combinations are ready to go, be it a pair of linen trousers and a pretty blouse, or a floaty dress that requires sandals to complete the look. For some, building a capsule wardrobe means investing in high-end pieces, but if you're working with a budget, H&M's new collection reads like an expensive-looking summer capsule wardrobe.

Over the years, I've decided that some summer basics are more essential than others. Yes, a great pair of denim shorts will come in handy, but a pair of tailored linen shorts has much more versatility. The same goes for a simple tank top. I find myself wearing them often for off-duty looks, but my pretty blouses are able to move seamlessly between workwear, coffee dates and al fresco dinners with ease. Having tried and tested so many great summer basics over the years, I know which ones are the most versatile. So, I've put together a reliable summer capsule wardrobe below, and every single piece is an affordable buy from H&M, whether you'd know it or not.

First on my list is always linen. The fabric is innately breezy, whether you prefer a linen pair of trousers or a throw-on dress. Next, reliable separates of shorts and skirts can be restyled with bolder blouses or simple T-shirts as you need. Finally, a selection of summer accessories ties it all together, and I've hand-selected the pieces that have timelessness at their core, so you know you can depend on them every single year. The best part is that all of these pieces are ready to be mixed and matched with each other and more. So if you find yourself seeking something a little more fashion-forward, you can restyle your shirts and blouses with capri pants, or wear your timeless dresses with trending beaded sandals. As the sun is already shining, let's get straight into it. Scroll on to shop the most refined summer capsule wardrobe, courtesy of H&M.

1. The Pretty Blouse

Style Notes: Romantic, intricate and always sweet, a great blouse will work hard in your summer wardrobe. From classic linen trousers to trending silk shorts, we've already spotted a plethora of stylish people reaching for their blouses to bring a pretty edge to summer dressing.

2. The Linen Trousers

Style Notes: My favourite denim is taking a break for the moment as airy linen trousers step into their place. From more tailored styles to relaxed drawstring designs, these light trousers are as hard-working as they come through the warmer days. And so many of H&M's best-selling styles have returned for summer 2026.

3. The Chic Dress

Style Notes: If your summer wardrobe is all about ease, then look to a one-and-done dress to do the heavy lifting. The best pieces look refined even when slipped on in a moment, simply requiring summer footwear and a great bag to look instantly polished. Save these for the days when you have 5 minutes to get ready.

4. The Floaty Skirt

Style Notes: For most of the year you can find me in trousers, but when I find myself wanting an instant switch up, skirts are always my first port of call. Breezy, comfortable and elegant, this selection of H&M skirts is one of the best we've seen in years.

5. The Relaxed Shirt

Style Notes: If there's one capsule buy that I rely on most, it's the relaxed shirt. Throughout the year I call upon classic button downs when getting dressed, but even more so when the sun finally arrives. Whether paired with loose trousers, thrown over swimwear at the beach, or simply tied around your waist for an extra layer on cool evenings, a relaxed shirt is sure to work hard in any wardrobe, and H&M has plenty of shades and fabrics to choose from.

6. The Linen Shorts

Style Notes: Whilst I won't be abandoning my denim cut-offs any time soon, a pair of polished shorts is undeniably versatile. Worn simple with tank tops, elevated with shirts or accompanying dainty blouses, these shorts bring a touch of refinement to all occasions.

7. The Summer Accessories

Style Notes: To really mark the arrival of summer, call upon trusted accessories. From great sandals to timeless basket bags, these accessories will instantly shift your wardrobe into the summer mood, whether the weather is on board or not. Look out for timeless, pared-back designs to ensure that these pieces feel current in your wardrobe year after year.

June has finally arrived, and already the bright summer mood is upon us. If you're anything like me, your calendar has slowly filled up with BBQ's, coffee dates and a few trips abroad over the coming months. Before I launch into the busy days, the heatwave has offered a glimpse at the incoming warm weather, and now I've noticed a few gaps in my summer capsule wardrobe that are ready to be filled. To prepare my wardrobe for all that summer has to offer, I'm looking for pieces that are easy to style, instantly polished, and look much more expensive than they actually are. Just in time, H&M has launched its new collection, and my wish list is officially full.

On the warmest days, I like to waste no time. A few minutes can be spared consulting the summer outfits I've saved for this very season, but aside from that, I don't want to spend a lot of time or energy thinking about what to wear. The ease of the season is replicated in what I wear, from simple throw-on dresses to put-together linen sets. My goal is to get dressed quickly, allowing for more time in the sunshine, and the curated H&M edit I've made below will make that a breeze.

Creating a uniform is something I do at the start of every season. Throughout the summer months, my outfits can be refreshed by swapping certain accessories, but the foundations remain the same. Breezy dresses are thrown on for weekends and work, loose linen trousers rise to the challenge no matter the temperatures, and pretty blouses feel put-together whether you're strolling through the city or at the seaside. Now, H&M is leaning into classic palettes with refined details, ensuring that this capsule can be mixed and matched throughout the warmer months for instantly elegant looks that can be relied upon over and over again. As the best H&M pieces tend to move fast, let's get straight into it.

Shop the Chic New-In H&M Buys for June 2026

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With summer fast approaching, my hunt for the chicest wardrobe staples has officially begun. It’s all well and good to follow the latest fad or trend, but in my opinion, looking polished and put-together will always be difficult if you don't have the basics in place. And as someone with high-end taste on a very high-street budget, H&M is my first port of call for expensive-looking pieces season after season. Perfectly balancing on-trend appeal with an equally timeless aesthetic, I consistently come back to this high-street hero for elegant staples that will stand the test of time in my capsule wardrobe.

So, of course, when I found out that H&M launched its new summer 2026 edit, I knew I had to browse online to find the new pieces I’d be adding into my warm-weather outfit rotations. Almost immediately, my basket was filled with a myriad of H&M buys that are stylish, easy to style and most importantly, look way more expensive than their affordable price tags. Luckily for you, I’ve rounded up the very best from the edit right here.

From elegant midi dresses to summer-appropriate shell jewellery, keep scrolling to shop the 18 best items from H&M’s 2026 summer collection.

The 18 Most Expensive-Looking Buys from H&M's Summer Collection

We’re firmly in summer mode now. Holidays booked, out-of-office replies drafted and that long-imagined Greek escape finally within reach, which means there’s only one thing left to consider: packing a holiday wardrobe that feels as good as the destination itself.

Luckily, the high street has never looked better. The new-in sections at Zara and H&M are currently brimming with pieces that could easily pass for designer resort-wear, without the price tag to match. Think beautifully cut linen trousers and matching sets, airy cotton dresses, intricately embroidered blouses and those minimal, expensive-looking sandals that pull everything together.

It’s the kind of offering that makes warm-weather dressing feel effortless, and far more elevated than you’d expect. Keep scrolling to shop the best Zara and H&M pieces now.

Shop The Best Zara and H&M Resortwear 2026

Summer may have only just begun, but already one part of my wardrobe is working harder than the rest. From slow weekends to busy office days, my dresses are in constant rotation now that the sunshine is here. So much so that I need a few more options to keep up with the incoming summer days. With elegance and ease on my mind, I scoured through hundreds of new-in dresses, and found myself filling up my wish list with styles all from H&M’s new summer collection.

If you’ve already had a peek at H&M’s new collection, you’ll have noticed that this season feels like the strongest to date. Creating pieces that could pass for designer is difficult, but this high street hero makes it look effortless. Considered cuts, intricate design details and refined silhouettes come together to create a sophisticated edit of pretty dresses that will instantly induce compliments, and ensure that summer dressing is that much chicer.

H&M's well-edited selection of dresses can be broken down into 5 distinctively chic styles. As the mercury rises, airy linen dresses will be a welcome respite for the hottest dates. For the minimalists, look to sculptural halterneck dresses in flowing forms to breeze around in this summer. If you prefer your dresses to have a more distinct silhouette, look to shirred styles, ranging from denim to cotton, floral to neutral. If you've been drawn to the pretty details that have returned with the bohemian aesthetic, take note of delicate broderie anglaise covering dresses or simply accenting necklines below. If all of these midi and maxi styles aren't for you, meet the sleek mini dresses that are ready to be restyled with ballet flats, sandals and heels this summer. Altogether, the below edit reads like an A-Z of the chicest dresses around. So much so, no one will believe they're the chicest H&M dresses for summer 2026.

1. H&M Linen Dresses

2. H&M Halterneck Dresses

3. H&M Shirred Dresses

4. H&M Broderie Dresses

5. H&M Mini Dresses

We’re officially in the midst of a heatwave, and all I want to wear is a breezy dress. Now that the sunshine has arrived, I’m returning to one of the most reliable summer blueprints—dress, sandals, basket bag. Having tracked down the best basket bags around and waded through the influx of new sandals to find the sleekest styles, it's not time to turn our attention to sleek dresses. After hours of searching, I’ve found the very best summer dresses at Zara, H&M and COS.

This trifecta of high street brands is known for expensive-looking dresses. Turning their attention to enduring colourways, elegant silhouettes and refined design details, a selection of the summer dresses could easily pass for triple the price. Hunting through the new-in sections to find these standout styles can take hours, but I've taken one for the team, curating an edit of the very best below to give you more time in the sunshine.

Whether you're more of a minimalist or dialling up the drama with boho embellishments, there's something in this edit for you. For summer 2026, COS leans into refined silhouettes with pared-back designs to ensure they hold their contemporary feel year after year. At Zara, playful updates come in the form of polka-dot prints, pointelle knitwork, and intricate embroidery that add a romantic mood to summer dressing. Finally, H&M is bringing refinement to the fore with a focus on silhouette. Look to smocked bodices, draped fabrics, and refined halternecks that make these high-street dresses incredibly sophisticated. Now, I've rounded up the chicest summer dresses at Zara, H&M and COS for summer 2026.

Best Zara, H&M and COS Summer Dresses

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With talk of an imminent heatwave, my group chats have, unsurprisingly, descended into a flurry of sunny plans—beer gardens, park picnics and, of course, the all-important question: what are we actually wearing in 25-degree heat? As ever, the conversation quickly turned to the pieces worth investing in right now, and I found myself replying with a tightly edited list from the three high-street brands I always come back to: Zara, H&M and COS.

Each has its own strength. COS continues to lead the way when it comes to elevated summer basics (the Clean Cut T-shirt remains a quiet hero), alongside the kind of polished, expensive-looking accessories that instantly pull an outfit together. Zara, meanwhile, is where I turn for easy, trend-driven pieces—throw-on dresses, standout silhouettes and those slightly more directional styles that still feel wearable. And H&M? It consistently delivers on beautifully cut linen, from tailored trousers to lightweight shirts that make warm-weather dressing feel effortless.

Collectively, they prove that the high street is awash with pieces that look far more premium than their price tags suggest, if you know where to look. So whether you’re after a fresh pair of linen trousers, a chic summer dress or a raffia bag that works just as well in the city as it does on holiday, these are the Zara, H&M and COS buys I’d recommend right now

Shop The Best Zara, H&M and COS Summer Buys

If you've had a peek at your weather app recently, you'll be aware that a heatwave is on the horizon. High temperatures are set to welcome in the summer months, and in turn, have kick-started my search for expensive-looking summer buys. Building my summer wardrobe is all I can think about right now, and with visions of pretty dresses, light linens and summer-ready accessories consuming my every thought, it seems serendipitous that H&M has just released its most rich-looking summer collection to date.

H&M's summer 2026 collection is a true example of what the brand does best. There are airy linens in polished trousers and shirts to bring a breezy edge to sophisticated dressing. Pretty blouses are a key buy this season, and H&M is putting its best foot forward with a series of embellished and more pared-back styles to suit all preferences. If you're planning on floating through summer in an elegant dress, there's an array of standout styles in timeless shades that will bolster your rich-looking wardrobe this summer and every year to come.

The running thread throughout the collection is a focus on classics with a contemporary twist. Classic shirts are updated with tonal shades, easy dresses set apart with a refined silhouette and tactile updates bringing a 2026 edge to reliable staples. Finally, I've handpicked a selection of chic accessories, from sandals to handbags, to pull your pieces together and create countless refined looks to see you through the summer months.

9 Rich-Looking H&M Summer Buys That Will Sell Out First

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As a born and raised Londoner, I’m not ashamed to admit that I look to the French fashion girls for outfit inspiration more often than not. Whether they’re chilling out down in the south of France or rushing around the busy city of Paris with a coffee in hand, they just have a way of making everything look expensive. So on my most recent trip to the city, I made sure to pay extra attention to the fashion staples that the most polished Parisians were wearing.

And naturally, the second I was back here in the UK, I decided to turn to the high street to search for the French-coded buys I’ll be adding to my capsule wardrobe this summer. Almost immediately, my basket was filled with a myriad of French-it-girl-inspired items that are stylish, easy to style and, most importantly, look way more expensive than their high street price tags. My personal advice on mastering the art of Gallic dressing? Focus on elevated silhouettes in versatile hues that manage to seamlessly balance both on-trend appeal and a timeless aesthetic. But if you’re looking for a quick way to dress like an elegant French girl this summer, then luckily for you, I’ve rounded up 27 of the chicest French-girl-approved high-street shopping picks to add to your basket this summer.

Happy shopping!

27 French-Girl-Approved High-Street Shopping Picks

Anyone who knows me will tell you that I’ve never been one to follow trends. I think it's all well and good to have the latest craze, but to me, looking expensive and polished will always be difficult without having those key capsule wardrobe staples in place. And I find that mastering the art of elegant dressing during the warmer months is even more challenging.

So, with the upcoming summer season approaching, I've already started to think about which trusty staples will form the foundation of my everyday wardrobe. And after months of observing what’s trending on the 2026 runways, scrolling on TikTok and Instagram, and spotting street style on my commute to and from the Who What Wear office, I’ve managed to narrow it down to seven versatile staples that I'll be wearing on repeat this season. And it should come as no surprise that I immediately turned to my favourite high street stores, Zara, COS and H&M, to shop them.

Perfectly balancing on-trend appeal with an equally timeless aesthetic, I consistently turn to these three high-street heroes for designer-passing pieces that will stand the test of time. And very quickly, my basket was filled with a myriad of summer staples that are chic, easy to style and, most importantly, look way pricier than they are. And luckily for you, I’ve rounded up items that perfectly fit this description below.

Keep scrolling to shop the seven designer-looking Zara, COS, and H&M staples that I’m adding to my summer 2026 capsule wardrobe.

7 Zara, H&M and COS Buys I'm Adding to My Summer Wardrobe

1. Midi Dress

Style Notes: Dress season is finally here, and a midi iteration acts as a throw-on style that you can take from day to night with ease. Simply swap out your flat sandals and raffia bag for a pair of kitten heels and a statement clutch.

Shop the Staple:

2. Minimal Sandals

Style Notes: With sandal season in full swing, fashion people turn to pared-back iterations that look chic and put together but also come with a sense of ease that makes them perfect for everyday styling. No matter the colour or fabric, a pair of minimal sandals will add instant polish to all of your summer outfits.

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3. Blouse

Style Notes: If you’re a regular reader of Who What Wear, you’ll know how much we love a blouse in the spring and summer. Dressier than your average tank or tee, but still feeling wearable enough for casual occasions as well, this pretty top style will add a touch of elegance to jeans, linen trousers or even capri pants this season.

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4. Linen Trousers

Style Notes: When it gets too hot for my wool trousers, I always turn to breezy linen to see me through from now until early autumn. I’m well aware that classic drawstring styles might feel a little too casual, so I tend to opt for more tailored linen trouser styles that can work just as well for the office as they can for a day out with friends.

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5. Woven Tote

Style Notes: I cannot wait to get my woven bags out this season. Whether I opt for a beach-ready raffia style or a sleek woven leather iteration, it's a structure thats timeless and versatile, but also comes with just the right amount of edge to add interest to my otherwise very simple look.

Shop the Staple:

6. Linen Shirt

Style Notes: A button-down shirt will serve you well regardless of the season, but as the temperature starts to rise, I’ll be swapping out my classic cotton iterations for breezy linen that can be worn with matching line trousers, jeans and midi skirts alike.

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7. Straight Jeans

Style Notes: With slim-fit denim replacing the baggy and barrel silhouettes that dominated last year, straight-leg jeans are back at the forefront for polished dressers. They lend themselves very well to a smarter style of warm-weather dressing, but they’re also incredibly adaptable, pairing just as well with a simple tank top as they do an elegant blouse.

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The weather has finally started to warm up here in the UK, and this can only mean one thing: blouse season is officially here! Of course, you’ll still find me in my trusty tank tops and t-shirts a lot of the time, but on those days when I need something just a little bit more elevated to dress up my jeans, skirts and linen trousers, a blouse will be my go-to.

Elegant enough to make my outfits feel instantly more polished, but pared-back enough that they never feel too out of my minimalist comfort zone, I always turn to blouses as an easy yet stylish throw-on option on those days when I want to look put together with little effort required. And ahead of the new season, I decided to go on the hunt for some fresh styles to add to my capsule wardrobe.

My first port of call? Zara, H&M and M&S, of course. Perfectly balancing on-trend appeal with an equally classic aesthetic, I consistently come back to these three high-street heroes for expensive-looking pieces that will stand the test of time. And in true Zara, H&M and M&S fashion, each brand currently has a selection of blouses that can easily pass as designer finds, all without having to actually break the bank.

And luckily for you, I’ve rounded them up below. From pretty polka-dots to timeless broderie Anglaise, keep scrolling to see my edit of the best Zara, H&M and M&S blouses to shop this season.

Shop the 9 Chicest Zara, H&M and M&S Blouses for Spring 2026