I like shopping in the autumn and the spring, but most of all, I like shopping in the summer. There's just something so pleasing about being able to put on whatever takes your fancy, as opposed to meticulously tracking the Weather app and working out just how many woollen layers you can fit underneath your coat. Instead, I'm very much here for the days of open-toed shoes, linen shirting, raffia accessories and wafty dresses. Which is handy, as it seems the shops are, too.
Nicole Ocran wears a green suit and yellow bag from John Lewis & Partners.
Look at any new-in section and you'll that summer has indeed arrived, though there are three stores that are leading the warm-weather charge—& Other Stories, Arket and John Lewis & Partners. Different they may be, they share a few similarities; excellent use of colour for one, an emphasis on cut another. Throw in breathable fabrics and you've got yourself a near-perfect summer wardrobe. To save you precious time, we've whittled down the 10 best pieces you need to see from each store. From silky slips and elegant skirts, to statement swimwear and fine jewels, keep scrolling to see and shop our wish lists from & Other Stories, Arket and John Lewis and Partners.
ARKET
Our slip-dress obsession shows no signs of waning.
Broderie is a summertime essential.
These shorts will work for the beach or the city in equal measure.
Upgrade your sandal collection with these punchy numbers.
Carry all in this excellent tote.
How minimalists do swimwear.
Tuck this tee into vintage jeans and finish with Tevas.
Utility jackets make for the ideal between-season cover-up.
This skirt is light as a feather.
Keep cool in a boiler suit with culotte-style trouser legs.
Related: The £45 Sandals That Are as Comfortable as They Are Cool
& OTHER STORIES
This hue looks gorgeous on all skin tones.
Could-be designer sunglasses with a very appeasing price tag.
You'll wear this 24/7.
Wear this shade of pink with khaki green for a gorgeous colour-clash.
This midi is on so many of the Who What Wear team's wish lists.
Open-toes change up the quintessential espadrille look.
We never met a piece of gingham clothing we didn't like.
How this bag doesn't cost four figures, we'll never know.
Keep this trusty knit knotted round your shoulders for cooler evenings.
Just add a white linen shirt.
Related: These Are the 25 Most Searched-For Dresses on Google This Year
JOHN LEWIS & PARTNERS
Because you always need a cover-up for Blighty summers.
The natural accompaniment to a denim miniskirt.
Wear these with a red camisole and raffia accessories.
Utility wear gets a pretty overhaul in pink.
Slick up your hair to let these beauties shine.
No summer wardrobe should be without a linen skirt.
Prepare to see this swimsuit all over your Instagram feed.
Simple but so effective worn with white jeans.
Every influencer of note has this bag on their arm.
The perfect beach-to-bar dress does exist.
Now, check out my H&M wish list, where every item is £30 or under…
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