The summer season so far has consisted of blue skies and weather that feels like being abroad, and with another heatwave expected imminently, our wardrobes have been put to the test. Boho dresses are in their comeback era, airy linens are playing a key role and statement accessories are just as important to make-up for the minimal clothing we’re able to wear in the heat.

My style as a minimalist leans towards neutral tones, simple designs and classic silhouettes, but I’ve also got an itch to add some newness to my summer wardrobe after feeling like I've worn it all already. My first stop? Heading to the M&S website, and it did not disappoint.

Right now the new-in section is full of chic, pared-back styles in a soft colour palette, with structured silhouettes and capsule wardrobe potential that can be brought out year after year. On the look out for hard working pieces that could easily slot into my existing wardrobe and be worn in an array of ways, M&S delivered on all fronts. In fact, the edit is so good, I couldn't help but share it with you. Scroll on to discover my wish list of the 18 minimalist styles you too should add to your basket now.

18 M&S Minimalist Edit for Summer:

I've said it before, and I’ll say it again: my mum is one of the chicest dressers I know. And with this comes her ability to find the sleekest, most expensive-looking pieces, even on the high street. So whenever I’m ok the mood for a wardrobe refresh, or simply want to bolster up my current rotation of polished staples, she’s always my first port of call.

And now that we’re over halfway through the summer season, I thought it was time to go on the hunt for some easy but elegant high street staples, all of which, of course, look way more expensive than their affordable price tags. After a quick online shop with my mum, both of our baskets were filled with a myriad of designer-looking buys. And we quickly came to a realisation: the majority of our baskets were filled with the same elegant pieces.

From elegant blouses that are sure to dress up your linen trousers to throw-on midi dresses that will make getting dressed in the morning so much easier, keep scrolling to discover the eleven pieces my mum and I currently have our eyes on.

11 High-Street Pieces My 60-Year-Old Mum and I Love

Shop More High-Street Pieces My 60-Year-Old Mum and I Love

When putting together my summer staples, my first stop is always COS. The brand has made a name for itself as a high street hero which brings clean lines, minimalist designs and an elevated feel to affordable pieces. Each season, we're met with a series of best-selling classics along with new heroes that exude elegance and have a timeless feel to ensure that any new addition will earn its keep in our wardrobes for years to come. Now that we've settled into the summer season, I've realised that a few seasonal staples are missing from my collection and COS is ready to fill them.

Heading into the store, my first focus was linen. For years we've sung the praises of COS's breezy linen trousers, and whilst I've tried on a few, I honed in on a sweet, breathable mini dress. The draw of the mini dress is how polished it looks, with an anti-trend edge to ensure I'll get plenty of wear out of this new addition. Another linen standout came in the form of the tailored linen shorts. True to form, COS has combined the refinement of its expert tailoring with a comfortable edge, thanks to the part-elasticated waistband.

Next, I had to check out the new denim arrivals. The denim barrel-leg trousers have a carpenter feel with bold stitching and a sleek horseshoe shape, which I know will propel them into cult buy position. On great trousers, if you're looking for a pair of trousers that feel a little more contemporary than your trusted wide-leg pair, I picked up a pair of relaxed cotton trousers, and paired them with a reliable striped shirt for an effortlessly considered look. Whether you're looking for breezy linens, sophisticated dresses or updating your denim collection, these are the best summer staples at COS right now.

Shop the 9 Best COS Summer Staples

Shop More COS Summer Staples

The summer season has settled into a comfortable rhythm of warm days and bright skies, and our wardrobes are working hard to keep up. Loafers have been replaced with open-toe sandals, thick layers set aside in favour of light linens, and on the days when we want instant polish, dresses are leading the charge. At this point in the season, most of us have had the chance to assess our summer capsules, and personally I've found a few gaps where expensive-looking affordable buys should be. Luckily, a fresh wave of new-in styles have arrived on the high street, and I've scrolled through all of them to handpick the very best. Right now, the standouts all come from Zara, COS and Mango.

Already this season, we've watched Zara offer up a series of instant best-sellers. From the viral frog-fastening shirt to the sell-out polka dot dress, Zara's summer collection is the strongest it's been in years. Even if you missed out on the It buys, there are a series of fresh pieces vying for a chance at cult status right now.

As ever, COS is bringing its innate elegance to summer staples, from expertly cut tailoring to easy cotton shirts. Soft silhouettes and intricate details of pleats and pin-tucking show the brand's attention to detail, and ability to make even affordable styles look like investment purchases. Mango rounds off the trio with attention to cut and form, from sleek balloon trousers to halter-neck dresses with delicate embroidery and crochet work, making its pieces look triple their actual price. As the best high street pieces tend to move fast, I'd recommend scrolling on.

Shop the Best Zara, COS and Mango Summer Buys

The summer season has settled into a bright, warm rhythm, and in response, my calendar is filling up fast. Plans of picnics in the park, al fresco dinners and weekend getaways are lighting up my group chat, along with the age-old question of what we're going to wear. As a shopping editor, my friends know that I spend hours scrolling through the new-in sections, so I have a good idea of where to find the best pieces at all times. So when my best friend asked for an affordable update to her summer wardrobe that focused on timeless pieces that looked triple their actual price, I sent these Zara, COS and H&M buys straight back.

The British high street has come a long way in recent years. Now, any time I need a refined update at an affordable price, I know that with a little searching, there's something special to be found. And most of the time, I start my search at Zara, COS, and H&M. This trio of brands has a way of leaning into current trends with an enduring edge, ensuring these pieces will earn their keep in our wardrobes.

For summer 2026, these brands have once again proven their design prowess and contemporary accolades, with classic trousers and jeans taking on a fresh barrel-leg silhouette, simple tank tops renewed with accents of lace and Broderie anglaise for a dainty edge and throw-on dresses cut in elegant silhouettes that can move from day to night dressing with the swap of a shoe. Whether you're bolstering your summer capsule wardrobe or looking for a standout piece to freshen up your most worn summer outfit, these three brands have restocked their summer collections just in time. Now, I've rounded up the very best summer buys from Zara, COS and H&M that look seriously expensive and will immediately work hard in any great summer wardrobe.

Shop the Zara, COS and H&M Summer Buys That Will Sell Out First

Shop More Zara, COS and H&M Buys We Adore

Linen trousers are one of the summer staples you'll find in every great capsule wardrobe. They're polished yet relaxed, breezy enough for the varying temperatures and will rise to all occasions, whether you're heading to the office or packing up for your summer holidays. In the midst of yet another heatwave, I set about to find a pair of linen trousers that have a high-quality composition, a contemporary feel and a timeless colourway. Naturally, I turned to COS.

If refined silhouettes, timeless designs and minimalist colourways feel like descriptors of your wardrobe, then COS is one high street brand that should be firmly on your radar. The brand is a favourite amongst editors and stylish people thanks to its offering of affordable pieces that could easily pass for designer, thanks to the attention to detail shown in composition and form. Over the years, the brand has been responsible for a series of cult buys from the beloved cashmere knits of winter to the highly sought-after summer staples. Now, the Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers are set to join the brand's best-sellers list.

The 100% linen composition sets these trousers up to be the perfect antidote to sweltering days. The pared-back design features clean lines and a soft barrel-leg silhouette, which updates these classic trousers for 2026. The elasticated waistband adds to the comfortable ease of these trousers, a necessity in the warmer months. After trying them on, I immediately imagined all the ways these would work hard in my wardrobe, paired with oversized shirts for the office, or thrown on with swimwear when heading from the beach to lunch. As the best COS buys tend to move fast, scroll on to shop the Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers, and shop more COS summer staples.

Shop the COS Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers

Shop More COS Summer Staples

The summer season is here, and I only have one thing on my mind: the sun-soaked getaways I booked earlier this year, and, more significantly, the outfits I’ll be wearing. For 2026, I want a holiday capsule wardrobe that’s wearable, easy to mix and match, and, most importantly, looks designer. But as someone with a luxury taste on a very high-street budget, I know I’ll have to work a little harder to make the pieces I invest in for my upcoming travels look polished, put-together, and more expensive than their affordable price tags.

For summer 2026, I’m all about elevated elegance—the kind of pieces that can be dressed down for a casual day exploring the town, then taken seamlessly into a fancy evening dinner with a few simple swaps. And after what feels like hundreds of hours scrolling online, I’ve collated a simple list of the thirteen staples I’ll be packing on my holidays this year. Think classic yet elevated basics that feel fresh for summer 2026, but are also guaranteed to last me for many years to come.

And the best part? I’ve rounded them up below, so that you, too, can follow my 13-piece holiday packing list on a high-street budget. Keep scrolling to see and shop the 13 rich-looking pieces that are making the foundations of my 2026 summer holiday capsule wardrobe.

13 Affordable Staples You'll Find On My 2026 Holiday Packing List

1. Throw-On Dress

Style notes: Dress season is finally upon us, and an easy, throw-on style that you can take from day to night with ease is a holiday must-have. Simply swap out your flip-flops and raffia tote for a pair of kitten heels and a statement clutch.

Shop the Staple:

2. Tank Top

Style notes: A tank top acts as the base layer for so many of my warm-weather outfits, and in my opinion, the high street has plenty of options that look just as expensive as their luxury counterparts.

Shop the Staple:

3. Linen Trousers

Style notes: Breezy linen trousers serve me well all season long, but they especially come into their own on holiday, when I can use them to throw over my swimsuits or pair with an elegant blouse and sandals.

Shop the Staple:

4. Sandals

Style notes: It’s toes out season! And the high street is filled to the brim with a myriad of designer-looking sandals this year, from classic styles that will never date to on-trend iterations that rival any luxury find.

Shop the Staple:

5. Button-Up Shirt

Style notes: A button-up shirt will serve you well this summer, whether worn thrown over a bikini or paired with some breezy shorts. Instead of the more fitted silhouettes I opt for at home, I’m turning to more relaxed iterations that give my holiday outfits an effortlessly chic, off-duty vibe.

Shop the Staple:

6. Midi Skirt

Style notes: A midi skirt is a summer staple, and when I’m on holiday, I always turn to them to dress up my tank tops and button-up shirts when I want to look polished. It’s the perfect staple for a day out in town or evening drinks with friends.

Shop the Staple:

7. Swimsuit

Style notes: I’ve never been a huge fan of bikinis so a one-piece suit is my swimsuit of choice for my holidays this year. However, instead of your classic neutral scoop-neck iteration, I’ll be opting for styles with elevated details or playful colours.

Shop the Staple:

8. Blouse

Style notes: If you’re a regular reader of Who What Wear, then it will come as no surprise that a blouse is on my packing list this summer. This pretty top style is a fail-proof way to dress up skirts, shorts or linen trousers on holiday, not to mention it looks expensive at any price point.

Shop the Staple:

9. Linen Shorts

Style notes: When it gets too hot for even linen trousers, I turn to shorts in the same breezy fabrication. Perfect with tank tops, tees and blouses, you can’t go wrong with taking an easy, pull-on style with you on your travels.

Shop the Staple:

10. Jewellery

Style notes: Jewellery plays a key role in taking an outfit from basic to elevated, but don’t sleep on the myriad of expensive-looking pieces the high street currently has on offer. It’s an easy way to get your hands on summer 20206’s trending pieces without having to splurge out loads of cash.

Shop the Staple:

11. Sunglasses

Style notes: I love designer sunglasses as much as the next person, but don't be tricked into thinking you have to spend loads on luxury-looking iterations. Just look at the chic high-street styles below…

Shop the Staple:

12. Basket Bag

Style notes: Whether it’s raffia, jute or hemp, a basket bag is an easy way to add texture to a holiday outfit. I’ll personally be using mine as a beach bag to fit my towel, SPF and sunnies in.

Shop the Staple:

13. Bandana

Style notes: The bandana is the it-girl accessory of summer 2026, and the high street is currently filled with a number of chic patterns, colours, and designs that are sure to elevate even the most basic of outfits.

Shop the Staple:

If you’re anything like me, you spent late spring planning out a series of intricate summer outfits which swiftly went out the window as soon as the first heatwave arrived. Instead, most days I find myself reaching for a reliable dress, a pair of sleek sandals and an oversized bag to see me through work, weekends and evening drinks. It’s a simple formula, and one that can prove incredibly effective when you have the right dress in tow. Now, from London to Paris, the most stylish people I know are all wearing the Aligne Jennie Cap Sleeve Linen Dress, and I've just added it to my basket.

Amidst a sea of summer dresses, it takes something particularly special to stand out. Now, Aligne has risen to the challenge. Looking closely, it's easy to see why the Jennie dress has become an instant favourite amongst the most stylish people around. It exudes sophistication, from the cap sleeves to the intricate fastenings through the centre, with the linen fabric grounding the style in daywear thanks to its breezy composition and natural crinkle. Paired with ballet flats, sandals or a sleek mule, it’s the kind of dress that screams elegance even when you only have five minutes to get ready (exactly my kind of dress).

Whilst there's been a flurry of sightings of the white version, the style does also come in a seriously covetable navy, too. Both will fit seamlessly into any well-curated wardrobe, ready to be paired with complementary neutrals or ignited with bolder accessories in vibrant shades. As soon as I caught onto the style, I added it to my basket. If you're interested, I suggest you move fast!

Shop the Aligne Jennie Cap Sleeve Linen Dress

Shop More Aligne Summer Buys

It will come as no surprise that COS features heavily in my wardrobe. Since its arrival on the British high street, the brand has carved out an aesthetic of clean lines, exquisite tailoring and high-quality staples that are often case and point for finding expensive-looking pieces on the high street. Whether you're searching for the perfect white T-shirt or adding a selection of elegant dresses to your collection, the brand executes refined minimalism with ease every single season. In turn, a series of It styles have already become cult buys for in-the-know fashion people this summer.

Whilst summer has only just officially begun, COS has been offering up the best of its warm-weather collection since the first ray of sunshine, and a series of sleek best-sellers have come to the fore. By striking the perfect balance of high-quality fabrics, intricate details, and considered silhouettes, COS makes its affordable pieces look like investment buys. This season, light cotton and breezy linen are applied to relaxed trousers and tailored shorts for an instantly polished effect. Dresses are formed in languid silhouettes and pared-back designs, ready to be accented with sleek accessories, like the new raffia basket bag that is on everyone's wish list.

Alongside, there are the classics. The perfectly cut T-shirt, the simple yet hard-working tank top and the loose linen shirts—staple summer buys that are worth spending a little more on as they'll earn their keep in your wardrobe for years to come. Now, I've rounded up the best-selling COS buys for summer 2026 to shop before they inevitably sell out.

Shop the COS Summer 2026 Best-Sellers

1. Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

2. Cotton Straight-Leg Trousers Drawstring Trousers

3. Ribbed Cotton Tank Top

4. Pleated Belted Linen Shorts

5. Gathered-Neck Jersey Tank Top

6. Riviera Hand-Woven Tote Bag

7. Gathered Jersey Dress

8. Wide-Leg Denim Shorts

9. Oversized Short-Sleeved Linen Shirt

10. Minimal Leather Sandals

11. Ruched-Waist Midi Skirt

12. Clean Cut T-shirt

13. Tailored Linen Mini Dress

14. Open-Back Halterneck Top

15. Facade Straight-Leg Jeans

16. Folded Clutch Bag

Shop More Best-Selling High Street Buys

Between overly sweaty commutes to the office and sizzling evenings out with friends, it feels like we’re in a never-ending heatwave here in the UK. And with this, my wardrobe has really been put to the test this summer. Searching for warm-weather staples that both keep me cool and look polished can be a challenge, so I set myself a goal of finding some more anti-trend staples that will instantly join my warm-weather outfit rotations and last me for many years to come.

Luckily for me, I didn't have to look very far, as H&M has just dropped another easy, elegant summer edit filled to the brim with capsule wardrobe staples that will help to bolster up my hot-weather outfit formulas. Using timeless hues and exaggerated silhouettes that will stand the test of time in my wardrobe, each item can be mixed and matched into a myriad of different outfits that are sure to save me from that daily “what do I wear!?” panic in the mornings.

Although the entire edit has seriously impressed me, in lieu of breaking the bank, I’ve decided to focus my attention on just nine of the most elegant anti-trend staples that have made their way into my basket this season. And trust me when I say that they won't stay in stock for very long.

Keep scrolling to discover the nine best items to shop in H&M’s anti-trend summer collection.

9 Anti-Trend Buys From H&M That Will Be Sold Out By August

Shop More H&M Pieces I Love

As soon as the high temperatures arrived, a switch occurred in my wardrobe. Whilst most of the year I spend my time in jeans and tailored trousers, suddenly dresses have returned to pride of place in my wardrobe, taking on coffee strolls, al fresco dinners and shopping trips with ease. With such a high rotation of dress outfits this summer, I found myself in need of something new, but naturally, it has to meet my high demands. I searched for a dress that looks incredibly expensive, sophisticated for all occasions and can work hard whether I'm in the city or heading abroad. Enter the Abercrombie & Fitch Dylan Bra-Free Dress hit the brief.

Abercrombie & Fitch is known for many things, from the beloved Sloane Trousers to excellent denim, and of course, the dresses. And instantly, the Dylan has become a beloved style amongst fashion people everywhere. The silhouette is so refined, with a basque waist, soft ruching around the bust, and the highlight—a built-in bra. The smocking on the back allows the style to fit snugly to your body, and with the three hem lengths and adjustable straps. The style comes in 100% cotton and a linen style, and now is also available in halterneck and mini versions!

As great high street buys do, this dress has been flying in and out of stock recently. Available in a series of sleek shades and prints, the style is proving incredibly popular for its sophisticated look and ease thanks to the bra-free design. But don’t worry, the styles do come back in stock, and it's a dress worth refreshing your search page for. Now, scroll on to shop the Abercrombie & Fitch Dylan Bra-Free Midi Dress.

Shop the Abercrombie & Fitch Dylan Bra-Free Dress

Shop More Abercrombie & Fitch Dresses

Summer has arrived in a flurry of hot days, al fresco dinners and endless plans to get outside. In the midst of it, we've been trying to pull together our warm-weather wardrobes and bring a chic edge to this busy season. With an early start to the hot weather, I've already found that my summer looks are working overtime, and so I set about to find a few classic additions that will instantly join my summer wardrobe rotation and hold their place for years to come. Luckily, I didn't have to look far, as Zara just dropped a refined edit of minimalist pieces that look exceedingly expensive and have timelessness ingrained in every stitch.

Zara's new collection perfectly encapsulates my minimalist aesthetic. Whilst the summer days draw me towards bolder accessories and jewellery updates, my foundations remain the same year-round. Tonal shades always look sophisticated, with updated silhouettes for the new season. Textures are also amping up my looks right now whilst still holding their timeless appeal, and the most simple designs have become standouts with fresh hem lengths and fabric updates.

Whilst the entire drop has seriously impressed me, 9 styles immediately went in my basket. The standouts come by way of intricate lace tops to pair with longline denim shorts, or swap in slouchy linen trousers for a laid-back appeal. Flowing silhouettes are all I can think about in this heat, and thankfully they look exceedingly expensive in Zara's designs. Look to the off-the-shoulder dress that pairs well with understated or more vibrant accessories, or consider adding an oversized linen shirt to your collection, primed for the office or for layering over swimwear. Finally, the trending frog-fastening jacket is back, now in an airy linen style that is sure to sell out fast. Altogether, these pieces make up for an incredibly refined minimalist summer wardrobe. Let's get straight into it as they're already selling fast.

Shop the 9 Minimalist Zara Summer Buys That Will Sell Out First

Shop More Minimalist Zara Summer Buys We Adore

When it comes to finding the hottest trends at an affordable price, Zara is well known among the fashion people and editors alike as their first port of call. I mean, we’re only one month into the season, and the brand has already leaned into all of the defining trends of summer 2026 far faster than its other high-street counterparts. And of course, this includes its forever-elegant dress collection.

I always turn to a dress as an easy yet stylish throw-on option on those summer days when I want to look put together with minimal effort. So, I decided to go on the hunt for some on-trend dress styles that feel fresh and elevated for the current season. The spring/summer 2026 designer runways have already showcased a number of chic trends that feel just as timeless as they look chic, and it should come as no surprise that the high-street hero already has several of these styles on its website right now. And in true Zara fashion, the overarching dress trends remain elevated but effortless, and more importantly, all look extremely expensive, with each easily passing as a designer find.

So if you, too, are in need of some elevated throw-on styles to polish up your sandals, flip-flops and trainers this season, keep scrolling to discover the six elegant dress trends Zara is backing for the season.

6 Easy But Elegant Dress Trends Zara Is Backing In Summer 2026

1. Linen

Style notes: Lightweight, breezy, with just the right amount of relaxed edge to feel effortless, linen dresses are a trusty staple that can be relied upon summer after summer. And for 2026, Zara has upped their game with a number of elevated silhouettes, bold colours and chic detailing.

Shop the Trend:

2. Polka Dot

Style notes: Polka-dot dresses are set to be everywhere yet again this summer. And Zara’s current selection is elegant, timeless, and can be taken from day to night with ease. I’ll personally be styling one of the brand's midi iterations with loafers and a raffia tote for the office and swapping these out for kitten heels and a statement clutch on summer evenings.

Shop the Trend:

3. Ruffles

Style notes: Ruffled detailing on clothing is by no means new; however, for summer 2026, Zara has taken it to the next level with even more exaggerated frills that elevate its dress selection and lend it a romantic quality that pairs easily with formal footwear.

Shop the Trend:

4. Lace

Style notes: It’s clear that 2026 is the year of vintage revival, and lace is one of the many ways Zara is hopping on this comeback trend. Wearing lace dresses might initially sound quite daunting, but trust me when I say that all of the styles below are pared-back, easy to style, and most importantly, lightweight for the hot days to come.

Shop the Trend:

5. Pastels

Style notes: I’m not usually one to opt for colour; however, the pastel hues that I spotted on the spring/summer 2026 runways and now at Zara are tempting me. Bright enough to inject some colour into your outfits, but still feeling wearable for a minimalist like me, pastel dresses are perfect for the upcoming wedding guest season.

Shop the Trend:

6. Two Tone

Style notes: If you’re unlikely to branch out from your neutrals, then the two-tone dress trend thats set to dominate summer 2026 is for you. Not only does this trend feel more elevated than your standard one-coloured dress, but it will also look expensive and polished at any price point—just look at Zara’s selection below!

Shop the Trend:

I'm not trying to toot my own horn, but I’m known to be quite the elegant dresser throughout autumn and winter. Between a structured wool coat, a smart pair of tailored trousers and chic cashmere knits, I find dressing for the cold weather extremely easy. However, I think we can all agree that it’s much more difficult to look put-together in summer. From the overly sweaty commutes to the office to the searing evenings out with friends, finding warm-weather staples that both keep me cool and look polished is something that always presents me with a challenge.

Well, that was up until now, when I discovered that all of the chicest dressers are relying on one particular brand for summer 2026, and it strikes the perfect balance between looking and feeling cool for the hot weather. Enter maebe.

Founded by influencer and entrepreneur Molly-Mae, maebe focuses on easy yet elevated wardrobe staples that look intentional and refined whilst still feeling effortless. The brand uses classic hues and patterns that will stand the test of time in your capsule, and each piece can be mixed and matched into a myriad of different outfit options that will save you from that daily “what do I wear!?” panic in the mornings.

Now, I’m well aware that the sheer number of items on any fashion website can be overwhelming, so I decided to focus my attention on the 11 stand-out pieces from the brand that I’m convinced will soon be sold out. Keep scrolling to see and shop the 11 elegant pieces from maebe’s 2026 summer collection that I’m considering adding to my basket.

Shop the 11 Chicest Pieces from Maebe's 2026 Summer Collection

Shop More Maebe Pieces I Have My Eye On

As we officially move into the summer months, our wardrobes are working hard to keep up with the unpredictable weather. Looking chic and staying cool is my top priority right now, and already the high temperatures have exposed a few missing staples in my summer capsule wardrobe. Luckily, the summer sales have arrived just in time for us to update our wardrobes with sleek pieces for the new season. And finally, COS's summer sale has arrived, and I've found so many sleek buys you need to see.

The summer sales are officially upon us with savings on both current and cooler weather pieces. Personally, I love to stock up on pieces that will work in my wardrobe regardless of the current season, snapping up smart deals on capsule wardrobe staples and autumnal pieces that I'll be calling upon next season. But for the COS sale, we also have the chance to instantly update our summer looks with a touch of refinement that the brand has become known for.

To avoid impulse shopping during the sales season, I focus on pieces that I know I’ll feel comfortable in and will hold their place in my wardrobe for many years to come. Truthfully, the best sales buys are pieces you’d want to buy at full price, and aren’t just alluring because of a price reduction. So, I’ve meticulously scoured the best COS sale buys, focusing on the most elegant pieces that have longevity and refinement at their core. Think loose linen trousers, light shirts, and of course, a series of sleek dresses which can be restyled for day or evening. Alongside, there are a few accessories to pull your looks together, from elegant scarves to expensive-looking handbags. Altogether, you could create a designer-passing wardrobe with these sleek sale buys. As the best pieces tend to move fast, let’s get straight into it.

Shop the Best Summer Buys in the COS Summer Sale

Shop More Capsule Wardrobe Buys in the COS Summer Sale

I don't know about you, but there's something about summer dressing that makes me want my wardrobe to work harder with less. As soon as the temperatures rise, I'm drawn to pieces that feel polished without requiring too much thought. Think easy linen separates, elevated basics, versatile dresses and accessories that make even the simplest outfit look incredibly chic. When it's warm outside, the last thing I want to do is overthink getting dressed, so I tend to rely on a curated collection of timeless staples that I can mix, match and rotate all season long.

Fortunately, one high-street destination continues to excel at offering pieces that do exactly that: Marks & Spencer. By now, you'll know the entire Who What Wear UK team turns to M&S whenever we're in the market for elevated, expensive-looking staples, and season after season, the brand continues to deliver wearable fashion that strikes the perfect balance between trend-led and timeless.

This week, the new-in section is filled with pretty tops, easy dresses and, quite frankly, the chicest batch of accessories I've ever seen. So whether you're refreshing your warm-weather wardrobe from scratch or simply looking to invest in a few key pieces you'll wear on repeat, there's plenty worth adding to your basket.

Scroll on to see the 12 Marks & Spencer buys that caught my eye this week.

The Chicest Summer Buys at M&S Right Now:

Summer sale season is here, and I’m determined to snap up all my expensive-looking warm-weather capsule staples at a discount. I’ve already spent hours scrolling through Zara’s elegant sale collection; however, on the hunt for staples that are a little less trend-led, I've decided to look to Zara’s sophisticated older sister, Massimo Dutti.

Polished, anti-trend and with immaculate quality, Massimo Dutti is known for its refined silhouettes, timeless colour palette and commitment to natural fibres. Because of this, the brand sits at a significantly higher price point than Zara, making the summer sale the ideal time to invest in some chic buys. Me personally? I have my eye on the high-street hero’s elegant dress collection, breezy but sophisticated linen, as well as a number of pretty top styles that I can use to polish up my jeans.

Now, I’m well aware that the large number of items in any sale can feel overwhelming, so I decided to focus my attention on the thirteen Massimo Dutti pieces that are sure to make all of my summer outfits look chicer.

Keep scrolling to shop the best of Massimo Dutti’s 2026 summer sale.

Shop the 13 Best Massimo Dutti Summer Sale Pieces:

Shop More Massimo Dutti Summer Pieces I Love

If the current heatwave we’re experiencing here in the UK wasn’t indicative enough, the summer season is officially upon us! And as someone who has the goal of spending my money easily at the top of mind, there’s no better time to start investing in new items than in the summer sales. I’m determined to create a warm-weather capsule that perfectly strikes the balance between feeling effortless and looking elegant and put-together. But I do have to admit, as someone with a luxury taste on a very non-luxury budget, I’ve always been extremely picky with the high-street buys that I invest in. However, there’s one affordable store that I know I can rely on time and again for expensive-looking buys that will actually last in my wardrobe—Zara.

The perfect balance between on-trend appeal and a timeless aesthetic, Zara never fails to impress me with their staples. And luckily for me (and now you), the brand’s summer sale is filled with a myriad of designer-looking pieces that I spotted on chic fashion people earlier this year when they were full-priced. Now, I’m well aware that the sheer number of items in the sale can feel overwhelming, so I decided to focus my attention on the thirteen pieces that truly stood out to me. Think effortlessly chic staples that can seamlessly slot into any existing wardrobe to create a plethora of polished summer outfits.

From elegant dresses to elevated sandal styles, keep scrolling to shop the 13 Zara summer sale buys that I’m convinced will be sold out by June.

Shop the 13 Best Zara Summer Sale Pieces:

Shop More Zara Summer Pieces I Love

When is the Next Zara Sale?

Zara's next sale (the final sale of 2025) is happening right now! It launched on 24th June at 9pm on the website and app.

How to Shop Zara's Sale:

Regardless of the brand or discounts, we always advise caution when it comes to shopping during markdowns, so you'll find a few tips and tricks for shopping the Zara sale below.

Firstly, have a look through your wardrobe and have a think about what you need and what works with your current pieces. Then, when browsing on the site, add pieces you love. But before you check out, it's worth thinking about how much wear you'll get out of them. A good rule is to know if you'll wear it 30 times or more, which is a great way to ensure you're shopping as mindfully and sustainably as you can.

What Will Zara's 2026 Summer Sale Discount Be?

For Zara's 2026 Summer Sale, the brand is offering up 40% off selected products with 1000s discounted across the site

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

Shop More Chic Zara, H&M and COS Summer Buys

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

Shop More Elegant H&M Buys