The word 'summer' conjures up all kinds of wonderful things: the smell of seawater lingering after a day at the beach; the sweetness of perfectly-ripe fruit picked up from the farmer's market; the whiling away of hours in a friend's garden, sipping chilled wine and exchanging holiday plans. Bliss. For us fashion-obsessed folk, it also signals a sartorial shift. So long, thick outerwear and weighty boots—hello crisp cotton, colourful sun dresses and open-toe footwear.
All that being said, if you weren't already excited about summer's impending arrival, I hope you are now. And to get you up to my level (i.e. itching with impatience), I've rounded up a few outfits that I think will be perfect for the warmer weather. Because the good news is the temperature has already started rising. Though it's technically still spring, this past week alone has seen several sunny spells in which you could definitely get away with wearing short sleeves and lighter fabrics.
So, when you're done with the 9-5 and find yourself lying in bed on a bright Saturday morning, come back to these looks. Whether you want a fresh take on your go-to outfit formulas, or you're ready to rock the cotton dresses that are politely waiting for their time to shine, you'll find plenty of inspiration below. And just in time for the bank holiday too. You're welcome!
1. Slip Dress + Shirt + Woven Bag
Style Notes: Slip dresses can be carried through the seasons, but they feel particularly appropriate for a lazy summer's day when you want to look stylish but carefree. Layer a lightweight shirt on top if you're feeling chilly.
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A relaxed cotton shirt is a cornerstone of every summer wardrobe.
Wear this pretty style from day to night.
The perfect weekend bag.
2. T-Shirt + Maxi Skirt + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: It's finally T-shirt weather, and we're celebrating by styling ours in true 2024 fashion. That means with a long skirt, ballet flats and a pair of oversized white sunnies.
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This easy everyday top comes in every size from an XXS to an XXXL
A linen skirt is a dream for summer.
Understated perfection.
3. White Blouse + High-Waisted Jeans + Plimsolls
Style Notes: Blue jeans and a white blouse is a foolproof combination, loved by the likes of Jane Birken and Brigitte Bardot. Give your take a casual spin by adding some gum-soled plimsolls.
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So romantic.
A super flattering fit.
There's something so nostalgic about Supergas.
4. Gingham Co-Ord + Sneakers
Style Notes: If your weekend plans involve a park picnic, top-to-toe gingham is your ticket to looking the part. A co-ord feels fresher than a midi dress, and it's easy to mix and match the separates for different occasions.
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Such an easy and very flattering top.
Paired with the top, this whole ensemble would give a really cool 50s-inspired vibe.
I love this shape from New Balance.
5. Blazer + Mini Dress + Flatform Sandals
Style Notes: Mini dresses are back, and we're not sad about it. I adore how Francesca has styled hers with a blazer of the same length, plus a pair of strappy flatform sandals to keep the look relaxed.
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This gets double points for the gorgeous colour and the fact it's made from linen—ideal for summer.
A summer essential.
This brand is a favourite amongst minimalists.
6. Linen Set + Slides
Style Notes: Linen tailored pieces are a summer essential, and Lucy's outfit is a brilliant example of how to embrace their simplicity in an understated way. This is the kind of look you could wear from brunch with friends, to a stroll around town, to date night dinner.
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This would also look really chic with white jeans.
I love the waistband detail.
The kind of understated slide that'll go with absolutely everything.
