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.
Shop the look:
A relaxed cotton shirt is a cornerstone of every summer wardrobe.
Wear this pretty style from day to night.
The perfect bag for a day at the beach.
2. T-Shirt + Maxi Skirt + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: It's finally T-shirt weather, and we're celebrating by styling ours in true 2023 fashion. That means with a maxi denim skirt, ballet flats and a pair of oversized white sunnies.
Shop the look:
Our editors really rate Arket's T-shirts.
This whole look is so current.
These flats also come in five other shades: red, gold, emerald, tan and fuschia.
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.
Shop the look:
So romantic.
I bet these look super flattering on.
There's something so nostalgic about plimsolls, don't you think?
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.
Shop the look:
You can also pick this up in black-and-white check.
When I'm not wearing it as a set, I'd tuck a white tee into this skirt.
I love this shape from Nike.
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.
Shop the look:
This whole suit is divine.
A summer essential.
M&S' sandal offering is seriously impressive.
6. Crochet Top + Wide-Leg Trousers + Sandals
Style Notes: In case you hadn't noticed, crochet is everywhere right now. Dip your toes into the trend with a cute tank top, teamed with wide-leg trousers in a fun summer hue.
Shop the look:
A great option for any festivals in your calendar.
Linen trousers are a key buy this season.
The sandals on everyone's wish list.
Next Up: 10 Double Tap–Worthy Summer Outfits We've Spotted on Instagram This Month
