I can't quite believe we're halfway through the year already, even though I swear my brain feels like it's only just waved goodbye to last Christmas. Anyway, here we are, falling head first into summer 2025, and so begins another season of searching for the perfect slouchy-yet-smart linen trousers and easy dresses to wear on repeat, and working out which sandal tribe we'll be committing to for the coming months.
I'm going to try and be as disciplined as I can this season, focusing on what's already in my wardrobe and reworking old favourites as well as thinking smartly about which new pieces can really elevate my regular rotation. As a starting point, I always find it helpful to scroll through the new-in sections, even if it's just to get inspiration about what fresh colours or silhouettes to experiment with. And this summer's drops do not disappoint.
Francesca Saffari wearing COS culottes.
If you do happen to be looking for easy, high-impact pieces to add to your summer wardrobe, you'll be glad to hear you won't have to take out another mortgage this year. From my research so far there are so many impressive, affordable buys on the high street right now, sure to stand the test of time.
Anouk Yve wears a matching set from Mint Velvet.
For warm-weather wardrobe heroes that never get old, I would recommend exploring linen (Arket, H&M and COS have the best selections right now) in loose-fitting silhouettes that will keep you cool and will look chic for years. Loose, throw-on dresses are also the gift that keeps on giving, as they tend to be flexible size-wise but also so easy to style (Arket has some very cool pieces in bright colours and classic neutrals this summer), depending on your vibe.
Taffy wears loafers from Massimo Dutti.
So whether you just want some new-season inspo or are looking for something to fill a gap in your wardrobe, scroll down to see and shop my feel-good summer high-street edit.
1. Zara
The dress of the summer!
Style with linen trousers or denim shorts.
These shorts look incredibly elegant.
For those leaning into the boho aesthetic, Zara has some beautifully romantic pieces.
Another pretty top to wear with shorts, jeans, linen trousers and skirts.
2. COS
The perfect throw-on-and-go dress. Accentuate with gold jewellery.
The perfect 'jeans and a nice top' sort of top.
This looks much more expensive than it is.
I adore the beaded detailing on the front to elevate a simplistic design.
A gold cuff is just that finishing touch to an outfit.
3. H&M
Broderie blouses have such timeless appeal.
These are a designer dupe at a fraction of the cost.
A maxi skirt is so sleek.
These linen trousers feel work appropriate.
A wardrobe staple all year round.
4. Arket
A white embroidered dress is a summer staple in any wardrobe.
I've been on the hunt for a pendant rope necklace and this one ticks every box.
Inject some colour into your wardrobe with this timeless gingham top.
This burgundy bag instantly caught my eye.
I much prefer longer denim shorts, so this pair went straight in my basket.
5. Nobody's Child
I love the tie detail on the back of this simplistic dress.
This would look gorgeous styled with a denim mini skirt and sandals.
There's nothing I wear more in summer than linen trousers.
I have a feeling this are going to sell out.
This reminds me of some of the great Matteau dresses.
6. Mango
These are such a good A.Emery dupe at a fraction of the cost.
I love the contrasting trim finish.
Balloon hems are back and I love the panel detailing for a flattering silhouette.
A chic boho-esque blouse, just add denim shorts and sandals.
A basket bag is a summer holiday essential.
7. Free People
Sandal season is here and these will elevate any outfit.
I rely on easy co-ords all through summer, and Free People has some of the best around.
The embroidered detailing makes these jeans have a much more summery feel.
Available in 3 brilliant shades.
I wore my denim maxi skirt so much last year, I'm definitely investing in more this summer.
8. Massimo Dutti
This will take you from office to the bar instantly.
I'd wear gold jewellery to match the side buckle.
I'm always on the hunt for a new bag and this instantly caught my eye.
If dopamine dressing is your style, this midi dress ticks all of the boxes.
Keep a light layer to hand for the cooler moments.
9. Whistles
I just adore the shirred detailing on this dress.
The contrast stitching makes these shorts feel so much more expensive than they are.
I'd be investing in the jeans too to wear as a whole look.
A bag to take you from office to cocktail bar.
Update your ballet flats collection with a studded pair.
10. & Other Stories
The slim oval frame makes these sunnies look so much more expensive and the cream colourway ensures they'll match every outfit.
I'm a big fan of & Other Stories' dresses.
So easy to throw on over a dress or floaty blouse.
I predict this bandeau top will be a sell-out due to its intricate sculptural detailing.
These ballet flats will see you through the seasons.
