In over a decade as a fashion editor, it's only been the last couple of years that I've really noticed one colour in particular dominating an entire 365 days. Summer 2022 to 2023 was all about pink (who could ever forget #Barbiecore?), then red took over from summer 2023 with style insiders wearing red socks, tights and top-to-toe looks at any given opportunity. While red is still sticking around for summer 2024, the colour trends have finally broadened this season to create an array of key hues that everyone is trying out. And I for one am happy that it's not just one blanket colour spotted in all of the shops.
When I was on Oxford Street last week, I popped into Arket, Cos, Zara and Mango, and five colours stood out more than most. There were 2K khaki trousers, butter yellow dresses and tops that go perfectly with blue baggy jeans, and on the subject of blue, I spotted a fresh new shade all over the high street. Keep scrolling to shop the colours I've already seen some of the most stylish women on Instagram wearing.
1. Khaki
Style Notes: A lot of us will remember wearing a khaki dress in the early '00s, and now it's back. Adenorah shows how to do it the 2024 way by adding an oversized shirt, crochet bag and ballet flats.
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Hello, holiday top.
There's also a matching jacket!
A great alternative to a summer basket bag.
All about that to-the-floor length.
Because let's face it, knits are essential this summer!
2. Butter yellow
Style Notes: Wearing that Sienna Miller x M&S ruffled butter yellow dress (shop it below), Danielle shows how to make a girly colour look grown up by pairing with simple black accessories.
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Danielle's exact dress is still in stock in all sizes.
To wear with jorts, or just over a bikini.
These also come in six other colours.
Naturally I want the matching blazer, too.
One to fit your laptop in for the office.
3. Cool blue
Style Notes: This blue shade feels so fresh, doesn't it? Make like Anouk and keep the look super summery by keeping the rest of the look light and neutral. Psst, this colour also looks exceptionally good with silver jewellery.
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Literally no one will believe this linen blazer is from the high street.
Nope, I couldn't believe the price, either!
Cinderella vibes.
A "nice top" to wear with baggy jeans.
I would size up twice for a relaxed fit.
4. Red
Style Notes: Yes, red is sticking around for yet another season. And I'm not mad about it. The high street has come through with so many stunning red dresses (just like Nnenna's, above), nice tops and bold accessories to add to an otherwise simple look.
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This dress will work for events all year round.
Injecting fun into any outfit.
I'm seeing this as a holiday dinner look.
Ballet flats are sticking around for summer.
It's not surprising this has been a fashion insider-favourite.
5. Brown
Style Notes: If you're more of a minimalist, brown might be your colour of choice out of all five spotted most on the high street. It's all about rich, chocolately shades, as seen with Dawn's suede jacket. For this hue, I suggest pairing with gold jewellery and natural material woven or basket bags.
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So chic.
I usually find my favourite summer shirts in men's sections, but I love this one.
Miu Miu's boat shoes have made an impression on the high street.
Size up and layer over a vest top with shorts.
You can get this winner of a dress in either regular or petite.
