I'm a Fashion Expert—Here Are 30 Elevated Pieces Worth Buying This Summer

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(Image credit: @emilyjdawes)

I've worked in the fashion industry as a stylist and editor for close to a decade, so I’d say by now I’m pretty confident in spotting a great wardrobe buy when I see one. Over the years, I’ve seen trends and cult items come and go, experimenting with some along the way. No doubt they were fun while they lasted, but these days, I’m much more about investing in elevated pieces that I know will stand the test of time, whether that means pinpointing the most expensive-looking high-street finds or saving up for luxury pieces I truly love. 

It can be so easy in summer to get carried away with the influx of cheap prints and playful designs that pop up, but taking a step back and considering what might have a seasonal sell-by date is so important if we’re going to curate more sustainable wardrobes that last. I try my best, instead, to veer towards classics that I’ll want to wear at any age—like linen dresses and separates or timeless prints like stripes and the odd elevated floral. My colour palette is usually quite minimalist, with a few splashes of my favourite brights peppered in. And most importantly, wearability and versatility are top of my list when considering a summer buy. Are these trousers comfy enough to wear all day but smart enough for the office as well? Can I wear this dress for summer events like weddings with heels as well as at weekends with flats and over a bikini at the beach? Will this jacket work in autumn just as well as right now?

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(Image credit: @emilyjdawes)

M&S linen is one of my expensive-looking summer go-tos. 

It’s a lot to think about, especially when we all lead such busy lives these days. But if you’re with me and looking for summer pieces that tick all these boxes, you’re in luck. Below, I’ve added links to my current (dream) summer wish list featuring only the best of the best buys to save you all the scrolling. Of course, I won’t be buying all of this, but rest assured any one of these items will add value to your existing summer wardrobe. 

Keep scrolling to see and shop the fashion expert approved summer items you’ll never regret. 

Shop My Summer Wish List

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Emily Dawes
Affiliate Editor

Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for theBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing brand.

Emily has worked forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely withBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, teamBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.

Prior to joining theBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.

When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.

Emily is currently on maternity leave.