9 Accessories Londoners Are Embracing for Summer

Over the last few months at Who What Wear, we have started venturing back out into the world and documenting how women are dressing post-lockdown. Taking to the streets of East London's Broadway Market, photographer Michaela Efford and I have spent numerous hours politely asking strangers if we can photograph the outfits they've chosen to wear on their morning coffee run, local park walk or casual lunchtime shop.

And if there's one thing I've learned from the experience it's that British women have really, really good taste, particularly when it comes to accessories. Last month's contingent of street stylers toted designer bags by the dozen, while this month's stylish set also had a penchant for elevated accessories. Need some proof? This month on our travels, we spotted women wearing coveted cult items like The Row's leather tote and Arizona Love's gauze-trimmed sandals. If that doesn't prove how chic the residents of this postcode are, we also came across women sporting vintage gems like a pair of oversized sunglasses by Christian Dior and an iteration of Prada's ever-popular nylon bag. 

It's clear the women of East London really know how to let their accessories do the talking. Keep scrolling to see the best bags, shoes and sunglasses we spotted during our street style shoot. 

1. Vintage Prada Bag

Style Notes: Last year, we saw a huge resurgence in the popularity of Prada's nylon collection, and evidently, the hype hasn't slowed down just yet. 

2. The Row Textured Leather Tote

Style Notes: This handbag by The Row represents understated luxury at its finest. It's the kind of bag you will have for years and years to come. 

3. Lalo the Shop Tote

Style Notes: Whether you take it to the beach or take it to dinner, this fun summer accessory is so versatile you'll wear it all season. 

4. Ray-Ban Sunglasses and Pearl Earrings

Style Notes: Ray-Ban's classic round-frame sunglasses are a timeless addition to any outfit. I love the way they have been paired here against matching gold jewellery. 

5. Arizona Love Sandals

Style Notes: Last summer, these sandals were pretty difficult to track down. They kept selling out across almost every retailer. Luckily, the Arizona Love sandals are back in stock this season and still look as chic as ever. 

6. Vintage Christian Dior Sunglasses

Style Notes: The sunglasses on this look instantly grabbed my attention, and I was only more impressed when I learned they were a pair of vintage frames by Christian Dior. 

7. The Cambridge Satchel Company Bag

Style Notes: The Cambridge Satchel Company makes timeless bags you'll wear on repeat, and this mini crossbody is the perfect companion for a park stroll. 

8. Silk Scarf

Style Notes: This street styler told us she found her raffia bag at a market in Mexico, but it's the vintage scarf that really caught my eye. I love how the bright colours can instantly add interest to any outfit. 

9. Wedge Espadrilles

Style Notes: A summer footwear staple if ever there were one. It was so refreshing to see someone out of their sneakers and wearing heels once again. 

Next up, the biggest autumn 2021 trends you need to know.