Delving into the "saved" section of someone's Instagram account can be a very revealing thing. So when I decided to peer into my own saved folder, I was intrigued to see what patterns emerged, particularly in relation to style. I thought it might even help me to decide what my aesthetic would be this summer.
It soon became clear that the outfits I had favourited fell into four categories: dreamy dresses, party tops, minimalist looks and statement pieces. It essentially acts as an eclectic mood board of prints, trends, silhouettes and personal style, and it's a resource I now plan to utilise as I put together my summer shopping list.
A few trends emerged from within these categories. Pops of colour are evidently catching my eye right now—just check out Pernille's grown-up spin on neon via a Samsoe Samsoe knit or Natalie Hughes's fire engine
red Saks Potts jacket. I'm also fawning over organza fabrics, and I'm desperate to get my hands on Lena's green Zara blouse. Checks have also shot to the top of my must-haves this season in everything from tailored trousers and skirts to statement tops and midi dresses.
So if you're in need of a little inspiration to kick-start your new-season style, scroll down to see the outfits I've saved this month.
The Dream Dresses
I'm not usually one of those people who loses it over a summer frock, but for some reason this season, I've caught the bug. It might have something to do with the vintage-inspired styles proliferating right now, with their puffed sleeves and longer lengths. I'm particularly enamoured with Jessie Bush's Kitri midi dress, which is very Wizard of Oz (in the best way possible).
The Party Tops
Move over, party dresses—it's all about the party top this year. Whether it's Zara's organza creations or ASOS's statement-sleeve styles, the high street has really nailed it in the blouse department. These are the sort of tops that will look just as good with jeans and sneakers as they will with slinky slip skirts. Plus, they're all pretty affordable, so it's a double win.
Minimalistic Looks
Even though I'm partial to the odd '70s staple, I'm generally more of a minimalist when it comes to summer dressing (as became clear as I browsed my saved images). I've been on the lookout for roomy, smock-like dresses in monochrome cotton (see Daisy Murray's mini below) to wear with my newly purchased Teva sandals.
Related: 6 Under-£75 Buys That Are Taking Off on Instagram This Week
The Statement Pieces
Okay, I know I just said I was a summer minimalist, but Instagram is nothing but a treasure trove of showstopping getups and statement finds. Although I won't necessarily copy these outfits exactly, I love to save looks that will inspire me to try a new colour combo or unusual print. For example, I like how Nnenna Echem has thrown a zebra print together with a leather shirt and coloured trousers. I'm also enjoying the odd statement trim, as seen in Natalie's Saks Potts jacket and Pandora's The Sleeper set.
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