3 High-Street Brands We're Buying Our Summer Basics From

You need only look out your window for confirmation that summer is on its way. The days are getting brighter and temperatures aren't as bone-chilling as they were a month ago; a welcome treat considering all of the outdoor socialising we're currently doing.

Another signifier that summer is on route is the new-in sections of our favourite shopping haunts. Heavier fabrics like leather and wool have swiftly been replaced with linen and chiffon, sleeves have been dashed from dresses and tops alike, and sandals are taking precedence over boots. It's glorious. 

While we could go through the summer collections of each and every brand, there are three stores whose new-season wares have impressed every single Who What Wear editor; we're talking about Arket, H&M, and COS. 

All undeniably chic, each of these high-street hotspots have created unique summer 2021 aesthetics. At COS, oversized silhouettes reign supreme in a palette of neutral hues. Over at Arket, there's an unexpected use of pastel tones on classic tailoring, as well as statement prints. Then at H&M there are pieces that pay homage to the '90s. Think slip dresses, denim shorts, simple jersey, waistcoats—the works.

So, if you're looking to update your existing wardrobe or simply feel the need to be in the know, scroll below to see out favourite summer pieces from Arket, H&M, and COS

ARKET

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(Image credit: @styleidealist)

Karina wears a suit from Arket. 

COS

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(Image credit: @brittanybathgate)

Brittany wears an outfit from COS. 

H&M

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(Image credit: @eniswardrobe)

Eni wears a dress from H&M. 

Next Up: These 28 Excellent Dresses Cost Less Than £100

Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.

Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.

Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.