It’s that in-between time of year again when it’s neither hot nor cold, but every ray of sun inspires creative styling. It’s an inspirational season. The blooms are burgeoning in their cotton-candy pinks, and colours are emerging in every shop window. The comfortable settling of seasons means we can now experiment with our sartorial choices and show off the outfits that have been hidden in storage boxes for months on end. For me, the mere sight of sunshine is excuse enough to dress up.
My summer fashion switchover is well and truly underway, and I’m welcoming some of my most-loved pieces back into my wardrobe. I’m assessing my current collection, reintroducing older pieces and considering which items are lacking or need to be re-homed.
We can finally pack away heavier coats for next autumn and embrace trenches, light knitwear, and billowy long-sleeved dresses. Swapping a coat for a cardigan, blazer or jacket can make all the difference. My taste tends to gravitate towards neutrals, and the colour I’m most enamoured with is chocolate brown. However, I can’t help but be taken by the sage-green colour that props up each summer. It looks amazing on all skin tones. It also pairs wonderfully with the tan accessories on offer and jute of course, it is summer after all.
Boilersuits are having a resurgence, too. The all-in-one is as much about comfort as it is about looking pulled together and uniform. Furthermore, I’m enjoying co-ords, either worn in unison or matched with other items. Can you tell I’m feeling inspired? These picks are all high on my wish list for May. As always, material and quality are factors I highly prioritise, as are classic shapes I know I’ll wear for years to come. Keep scrolling for the items I have in my May capsule.
1. Oversized Blazer
You can't mention a capsule wardrobe without paying homage to the blazer. It's a sought-after outerwear piece celebrated on all styles and body shapes. The universal appeal of a blazer means you can wear it throughout the year and in many variations. Wear it on top of bundled layers in the winter and with a midi dress and sandals come summer. It just as easily transcends from day to night. Trust me.
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The butterscotch hue and relaxed fit are what blazer dreams are made of.
The composition is wonderful for a blazer of this kind.
If you're looking to invest in a piece from The Frankie Shop, I recommend making a beeline for the Gelso range. This blazer is perfectly relaxed and the rounded shoulders lend it a relaxed look.
Arket's Hopsack Blazer is a bestseller year-round but when the weather gets particularly hot you may want to consider outerwear in natural fabrications. This style is unlined, which will be a further benefit, come summer.
New in from COS' Atelier collection - a linen jacket with accentuated waist detailing.
Although I favour monochrome tones, I'm always drawn to this colour.
2. Denim
Denim is back in a big way and although the traditional trucker jackets never go out of style modern updates have been introduced. From cinched-in waist detailing to ecru colourways, the options are aplenty. The denim category extends to dresses and skirts, so pick whichever piece feels the most like you to incorporate into your wardrobe.
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A utilitarian take on the trucker denim jacket.
This is one of the chicest plus-size denim jackets on the market.
I was surprised to find this jacket on M&S as the design alludes to luxury. In addition, it's really wearable.
It's the small details - like the distressed hem and reverse split. It makes all the difference.
A piece to rely on for many summers to come.
COS' denim skirts are some of our most popular picks.
3. Tailored Trousers
There's no denying that denim is taking over in 2023, however, tailored trousers disrupted the denim scene many moons ago and the impact lives on. For a few years, the high street and designers have been producing free-flowing trousers that are worlds apart from the slim-fit cigarette pant we once associated with tailoring. People far and wide are celebrating tailored looks beyond the realms of the office and formal dress codes. Pair tailored trousers with suited looks (the sleeveless waistcoat, for example), a simple tee or a 'going out' top. It works with just about anything, so mix and match to your heart's content.
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The allure of COS' famed trousers lives on and as an owner of a pair, I can attest to the quality and design.
In addition to loungewear Pangaia produce tailored trousers fashioned from 100% organic cotton and finished with a cupro lining (a biodegradable and breathable fibre).
Reformation's Mason pant gets a lot of love however the Vesta pant is a great spring and summer equivalent.
One for the office dress code and far beyond. I'm impressed with the composition, darts and khaki hue.
The Frankie Shop's Gelso trouser is by far my favourite as it's made from a mix that's kinder on the planet. The stitched front pleats will allow for movement, which is particularly important in the summer heat.
4. Midi & Maxi Skirts
And just like that, we've reverted and longer-length skirts are in the spotlight once more. They've always been a staple piece for me and one I'd best ascribe to my style. Thankfully for midi and maxi lovers like me, retailers are following suit with these modest styles. You'll find cargo skirts, column skirting and of course denim. Although they're an esteemed trend for SS23, they have a timeless appeal. I intend to wear my forever, just like I have many summers before.
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Deiji Studio offerings now include some transitional basics with a twist.
The addition of a drawstring waistband is so clever as it makes this otherwise dressy piece feel a tad more casual. It's also useful for the practical aspect.
A linen skirt in an A-line fit. Wear it with a top tucked in.
I'm so impressed with the quality of this piece. It's 100% linen too!
Hannah demonstrated the versatility of this skirt and now I'm convinced I need it as a part of my summer capsule.
I was ogling this piece on COS' latest runway and now it's available for purchase. Don't forget to look back for the detailed split.
5. Elevated Tops
Tops aren't considered the most exhilarating fashion piece but judging by the popularity of the 'going out top', it's something of interest. There are plenty of tops that sit in the happy medium between core basics and extravagance. With a reference to cottagecore here, a ruched detail there or something as simple as an intentionally unique neckline, having one of these tops can prove rather useful. The criteria for elevated basics isn't bells and whistles. The bandeau is an example of that. In theory, an elevated top can be a jersey piece but it's all about the cut and intentional details. Whether that's a t-shirt with a slightly sheer element or an embroidered blouse, squeeze the most wear out of special tops this summer and don't save these pieces for 'best'.
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This elevated basic has a place in every person’s wardrobe. Tuck this into very high-waisted jeans and pull the neckline down to accentuate the décolletage.
Embroidered blouses are a timeless staple for summer and they work particularly well with indigo denim. If you're not comfortable bearing your midriff layer it and wear your jeans high-waisted.
When it comes to top-half pairings you can't get much chicer than a halter neck top. I'd wear this with straight-leg denim and heeled mules.
The most adorable bloom detail.
I'm a big fan of a boat neckline. This style of top and tailored trousers is a wonderful pairing. Just add heeled sandals.
This season, I'm well and truly under the bandeau spell. Who knew a basic could look so wonderful?
6. CO-ORDS
I adore separates particularly in summer. I appreciate them for the mix-and-match element they offer. You can often interchange the top and bottom to extend the wear of other pieces in your wardrobe. I'm still swooning after the Posse two-piece that was a part of Sophia Richie's wedding wardrobe, so whilst I wait for that to be restocked I've found many just as worthy and timeless contenders.
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A uniquely contrasting two-piece with a sage green bustier and cream slip skirt. Pair it with the Dragon Diffusion woven tote in this edit.
Just like the designer two-piece that was popular last summer.
From the ruched panelling to the thigh-high split, this skirt includes many details.
There are so many ways to style this co-ord. Layer up or down as appropriate.
This kimono-style two-piece epitomises slow mornings although it can also be worn outside. Just add slip-ons or trainers.
Matteau graces us with delicate resort wear pieces that you can wear beyond the beach.
Polka dot is a classic motif but the tie feature is a touch of contemporary. Fasten it around your midriff for some added detail.
Fanfare is challenging anyone who thinks sustainability and contemporary styling can't co-exist. Their blazer trouser combo comprises an oversized double-breasted blazer and relaxed linen trousers. They can also be purchased separately.
7. Summer Dresses
Summer equals dresses aplenty and as a dress girl, I couldn't be more excited. Hemlines have become a sweeping statement which has inspired the sentiment of being swatched in fabrications. This year, the presence of floral is noticeably slim in favour of tonal looks and monochrome. Instead, silhouettes are pared-back which is apt for minimalists and those wanting to invest in timeless pieces. Note plenty of reworked jersey dresses, ruching and of course, bandeau shapes.
Shop My Favourite Pieces:
I tend to gravitate to this colour every summer.
Don't sleep on M&S when it comes to reasonably priced summer dresses.
The intentional details aren't to be missed. There's something almost Grecian about this.
I was pleased to find such a classic cut by John Lewis. This piece is available in UK sizes 8-20.
I know a dress is good when I can't help but include it in several edits. This light knit works for most weather types. The pointelle detail is the sweetest touch. It disrupts the fabric-heavy design.
Deiji Studios are best associated with billowy styles but this season their offerings include streamlined fits with considered detailing. Click the link to see the cut-out detail.
8. Boilersuit
Move aside jumpsuits, boilersuits are the newer, fresher update. You may remember the likes of B.Sides introducing boyfriend-style overalls when they were few and far between and now they're available across more retailers. Like the co-ord, a boilersuit is a fuss-free uniform piece.
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A modern silhouette with silver hardware. It's fashion-forward whilst boasting an ageless appeal.
Sezane offers a slightly feminine silhouette, as a result of the belt detail and slightly flared leg. Pair it with this year's Mary-Jane heel to balance out the proportions of the style.
As a result of the buttonless style and slub cotton, it looks entirely modern.
Boilersuits are back and better than ever. If you're after something workwear-inspired, try a top and jean stitched design that's devoid of a belted feature.
A quirky take on a boilersuit with a collarless design and puffed drop sleeve.
This clean-cut boilersuit can be worn from day to night. Simply pop on a pair of slingback heels or trainers.
9. Quiet-Luxury Handbags
I never understood the power of a good handbag until I hit my thirties. That's not to say it has to be designer, either. For me, a good handbag comprises timeless elements has an impact and holds its shape. The high-street and mid-priced designers are producing exquisite styles, so you needn't spend thousands for a forever bag.
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An intricately woven tote with a carved-out nook for easy-wearing comfort.
The understated yet intentional shaping is true to Loewe’s stripped-back, somewhat ambiguous brand identity. When you spot a Loewe bag from afar you'll know.
I adore Oroton for its fashion-forward designs and reasonable price points in comparison to the high-end luxury market.
The stitch contrast and gold hardware is a flattering pairing I usually attribute to designer brands.
Wandler's Penelope bag is part of the permanent collection. Around this time each year, I'm reminded just how much I love the shaping and colourways available.
The plush suede outer and brassy hardware lends a vintage touch to this bag.
10. A little Heel
Nowadays I pay equal attention to my footwear capsule. Instead of accumulating various footwear styles, I hone in on the styles that feel most wearable and in keeping with my style. I abandoned towering heels some time ago, instead focusing on the kitten heel equivalent. Although it's not for everyone, there's something about it that has a classic but modern feel I never seem to tire of. I wear enclosed footwear in the summer and introduce open-toe sandals when the rain subsides. Both styles of footwear can be worn with dresses, jeans, skirts and trousers.
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I always applaud Dear Francis' subtle details. Take the textured heel and auburn hue, for example.
These will forever be my dream shoe.
Aeyde crafted the perfect heel height for day and night.
You can always rely on an Italian fashion house to get it just right when it comes to accessories.
The embossing and slim gold heel separate this from the other mules on the market.
This is an equally beautiful offering by Reformation if Manolo is out of your price range.
11. Flats
The above principle applies to flats. Dressing for comfort is key, so I appreciate the considered offerings available this season. Thankfully, the flat phenomenon is rife which has inspired fashion-forward variations like the gloved shoe that encloses most of the foot. I'm pleased to see the evolution of pumps. Flat shoe people, rejoice!
Shop My Favourite Pieces:
Judging by the shoe offerings this season ecru is the new black. The wooden sole juxtaposes the creamy hue in the most considered way. It's a shoe that will work with your entire wardrobe.
Le Monde Beryl Mary-Jane flats are some of my favourites. This linen-cover pair (with a wooden sole, to boot) is wonderfully unique.
If you're worried about ballerina flats feeling too prim, why not opt for an enclosed style? Gloved shoes are a happy medium between ballet flats and loafers. Also, these are very comfortable.
Flats also include slip-on mules. Summer calls for these streamlined styles you can pop on with a pair of jeans and dresses alike. I recommend sizing up with this style as it's quite a snug fit.
The squared-off toe is a modern accent that separates this from the standard ballet flat. The Pose flat also features a gathered ankle detail making it easier to slip on and off.
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