I'm All About Hushed Luxury: Here's My Summer-to-Autumn Capsule

Dressing for changeable summer days is tough. Whether you're running around town with errands to do and places to be, or pounding the streets of your favourite holiday destination sightseeing, shopping and of course, stopping for that all-important cocktail, temperature fluctuations when you're trying to look good and feel comfortable are not ideal.

As soon as summer starts acting out of character and behaving more like early autumn, it's hard to know how to look chic. At least it was, until I put my thinking cap on and created the ultimate transitional summer-into-autumn capsule wardrobe for you. 

I've scrolled through hundreds of pictures of the most put-together influencers, celebrities and fashion people (you know, the ones who look like they've never even seen a bead of sweat), then combined that inspiration with my own expertise as a stylist and editor in London for a decade of sticky, rainy, unpredictable summers. I've managed to figure out the recurring items and trends that can make you look effortlessly chic, whatever the temperature. 

Below, you'll find a concise edit of 14 key pieces that will help you effortlessly transition your wardrobe from late summer to autumn, whilst still looking elevated. This is quiet luxury: The summer capsule edition, with pieces that can absolutely work into the next season, from light tailoring to white dresses, beautiful leather sandals and the most classic swimsuit style (if you're still looking forward to your holiday).

And the best part? These items require hardly any effort at all to style them successfully. I made sure to include only the easiest pieces that you can throw on in the morning, all of which go together, some of which you may already own. Even if you feel flustered by the forecast, these effortlessly elegant looks won't give you away. 

Keep scrolling for all the answers to your wardrobe prayers…

1. White Trousers

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(Image credit: @anoukyve)

2. Contrast Tank Top

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(Image credit: @sarahtankelellis)

3. Black Swimsuit 

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(Image credit: @emilyjdawes)

4. Shirt + Shorts Set

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(Image credit: @fakerstrom)

5. Woven Basket Bag

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(Image credit: @emilyjdawes)

6. Simple Leather Sandals

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(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

7. Perfect White Dress

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(Image credit: @hoskelsa)

8. Polished Jacket

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(Image credit: @taniasarin)

9. Maxi Skirt

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

10. Waistcoat

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(Image credit: @monikh)

11. Strappy Low Heels

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(Image credit: @rosiehw)

12. Bandeau Top

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(Image credit: @monikh)

13. Tortoiseshell Sunglasses 

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(Image credit: @styleidealist)

14. Gold Drop Earrings 

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(Image credit: @cocobassey)

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Next Up: 33 Affordable Buys That Still Feel Like Pure Quiet Luxury

Emily Dawes
Affiliate Editor

Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for the Who What Wear brand.

Emily has worked for Who What Wear UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely with Who What Wear UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, team Who What Wear is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.

Prior to joining the Who What Wear team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.

When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.

Emily is currently on maternity leave.