I can't quite believe we're almost halfway through the year already, even though I swear my brain feels like it's only just waved goodbye to last Christmas. Anyway, here we are, falling head first into summer 2025, and so begins another season of searching for the perfect slouchy-yet-smart linen trousers and easy dresses to wear on repeat, and working out which sandal tribe we'll be committing to for the coming months.
I'm going to try and be as disciplined as I can this season, focusing on what's already in my wardrobe and reworking old favourites as well as thinking smartly about which new pieces can really elevate my regular rotation. As a starting point, I always find it helpful to scroll through the new-in sections, even if it's just to get inspiration about what fresh colours or silhouettes to experiment with. And this summer's drops do not disappoint.
Francesca Saffari wearing COS culottes.
If you do happen to be looking for easy, high-impact pieces to add to your summer wardrobe, you'll be glad to hear you won't have to take out another mortgage this year. From my research so far there are so many impressive, affordable buys on the high street right now, sure to stand the test of time.
Anouk Yve wears a matching set from Mint Velvet.
For warm-weather wardrobe heroes that never get old, I would recommend exploring linen (Arket, H&M and COS have the best selections right now) in loose-fitting silhouettes that will keep you cool and will look chic for years. Loose, throw-on dresses are also the gift that keeps on giving, as they tend to be flexible size-wise but also so easy to style (Arket has some very cool pieces in bright colours and classic neutrals this summer), depending on your vibe.
Taffy wears loafers from Massimo Dutti.
So whether you just want some new-season inspo or are looking for something to fill a gap in your wardrobe, scroll down to see and shop my feel-good summer high-street edit.
1. Zara
For those leaning into the boho aesthetic this summer, Zara has some of the sweetest romantic blouses around.
Keep a light layer to hand for those cooler moments.
Comfortable, chic and ready to go from office to beach.
This elegant Zara dress is my favourite take on the polka dot trend.
This whole looks is just so good.
2. COS
The perfect throw-on-and-go dress. Accentuate with gold jewellery.
Shorts season is on the horizon, and this pair is polished enough for all your summer events.
If you like bags with a high-end feel, COS should be on your radar.
If you adored Francesca's culottes above, this is the exact pair she owns.
The silhouette of this dress is so exquisite it will instantly be mistaken for a designer buy.
3. H&M
So many of my summer outfits revolve around a great white skirt.
Understated and elevated.
Updated leather flip-flops are one of the sleekest sandal trends of the season.
The intricate details of this top and skirt set mean its already flying off the shelves.
You'll find yourself reaching for these crisp linen blend trousers over and over again.
4. Arket
My Arket shirt dress is one of my most worn summer pieces.
Looking to update your ballet flats for the warmer season? Knitted ballerina's are the way to go.
Airy, chic and primed to pair with everything in your wardrobe.
The Lupine jeans are one of my favourite pairs on the high street, so I'm excited to try this shorts versions.
An easy skirt that can be dressed up or down.
5. Nobody's Child
The fast-selling Felicity dress is back in stock, and now in a sleek black colourway.
There are so many intricate details on this blouse from the broderie anglaise to the sweet bow ties.
I didn't think the tank top dress could get any chicer, but then I saw this dropped waist ruched style.
I have a feeling these are going to sell out.
This reminds me of some of the great Reformation dresses.
6. Mango
This pair is so good Mango brings them back every year.
I have a similar bag in black that I always get so many compliments on.
On the days when you want to look put-together without a lot of effort, look to this linen-blend mini dress.
Just add your favourite boho blouse and slip-on sandals.
The draping of this dress let's it pass for a high-end find.
7. Free People
This dress is still a best-seller for the brand.
I rely on easy co-ords all through summer, and Free People has some of the best around.
We've spotted so many fashion people wearing this easy Lowen Midi Skirt.
Available in 18 brilliant shades.
The rope sandal trend is on the rise, and this pair is both seriously cool and affordable.
8. Massimo Dutti
You'd never guess that this intricate top is from the high street.
A shade I just can't stop thinking about.
You'll reach for these elevated sandals every single summer.
I'm planning on recreating this whole look.
The craftspersonship of this wooden beaded bag is incredible.
9. Whistles
The classic black dress just got a fun summer update.
The shade! The suede finish! This will bring joy to your looks all year round.
There's something to graceful about a longer short length.
A dress that is sure to turn heads for all the right reasons.
If your white shirt is working overtime this summer, swap in this sweet embroidered style.
10. Other Stories
Wear with simple sandals and a basket bag for day, or take to evening with mules and a clutch.
I'm a big fan of Other Stories' tailoring.
Ready to be filled with towels, SPF and books for your beachside adventures.
A throw-on dress to take you from beach to al fresco lunches.
These sandals are so classic they come back every single year.
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