It could just be me, but the older I get, the more I find myself drawn to the minimalistic side of life. Less is more, and all that. When it comes to my wardrobe, rather than experimenting with trends like I used to, these days, I'm investing in those classic pieces that I know I'll want to pull out year after year. Yes, it has a lot to do with wanting my closet to work a lot more sustainably, and buying fewer better items that last is the first step towards that. But a collection full of elevated yet understated capsule pieces is also, in my experience as a stylist, the easiest, low-effort way to always look chic.
This rings especially true in summer when loud prints and bright colours are ubiquitous. There's something particularly sophisticated about a pared-back monochrome look amongst a sea of florals. Not to mention it cuts down on a lot of packing for those summer holidays when everything goes together effortlessly. Of course, it all depends on what makes you feel most comfortable and confident, but if, like me, you've been starting to build a rotation of minimalistic summer outfits you can take from the beach to the park, you've come to the right place today.
Below, you'll find seven of the chicest summer outfits I've seen on Instagram lately that you can bet I'll be copy-and-pasting into my wardrobe for holidays and warm days in the UK alike. And because they're mostly made up of classics, I (and likely you) actually have a lot of the pieces already. The key is in the styling of these simple items, and the women below have seriously delivered on the inspiration front. This article is here for you to bookmark and return to whenever you're having a wobble when getting dressed or packing for your next trip. And I've also added shoppable links, in case you spot anything essential that's missing from your existing collection. Scroll down to see.
1. Shirt + Shorts Co-ord + Bucket Hat
SHOP THE LOOK
There's nothing more cooling than crisp whites.
This looks even better as a full co-ord.
The kind of easy basic you'll wear on repeat.
Effortlessly elegant.
You can't go wrong with a pair of black sunglasses.
2. Linen Trousers + Printed Shirt + Sandals
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An influencer and editor favourite.
Hands up who lives in linen all summer?
I never get tired of fisherman sandals.
3. White Shirt + Slip Skirt
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A white shirt might just be the most versatile piece in your wardrobe.
Definitive proof that black satin isn't just for evening wear.
Every good outfit starts with a good foundation.
There isn't an outfit that gold hoops can't improve.
4. Shirt + Bikini + White Denim Shorts
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There's nothing chicer than an open, oversized shirt on the beach.
There's a reason that Hunza G swimwear are a cult favourite.
Sorry blue denim, summer calls for warm-weather whites.
5. Backless Black Dress + Raffia Bag
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This has "summer evening" written all over it.
How to make raffia evening-ready.
The perfect "barely-there" sandal.
6. Asymmetric Tank + Striped Trouser + Strappy Sandals
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An elevated take on the simple tank top.
Trousers for summer in the city or relaxing by the coast.
I still can't quite believe that price.
This comes in no less than nine different colours, nbut my favourite is classic black.
7. Knit Dress + Straw Hat + Black Accessories
SHOP THE LOOK
The epitome of easy elegance.
Yes, this really is from M&S.
These easily look three times their price.
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