It's officially summer, meaning it's time to evaluate your arsenal and pull lighter pieces to the forefront. As you may be aware, I don't tend to advocate for occasion-specific shopping, however, I've noticed that investing in versatile pieces will pay dividends when building an intentional and re-workable collection, especially in summer. Because although summer styling loans itself to nonchalant fabrications and one-fell-swoop outfits, it's challenging to know ways to elevate ensembles and create sophisticated outfits with less.
The UK is known for two things where the weather is concerned—downpours and unprecedented heatwaves, the latter of which calls for little to no fabric touching the skin. Having spent the majority of my life judging the UK's weather forecast and wanting to remain uniform despite it, and now I live in Paris, it's still very much the same. Over the years, I've done the research and devised some simple outfit formulas that add a touch of sophistication to my summer repertoire, while keeping the precarious European weather in mind.
The fact is, there are some very simple shortcuts to creating classy outfits in the height of summer. Bandeau necklines, linen suiting and perforated knits are just a handful of styles that will keep you cool, whilst loaning a fashion-forward look. The same is true for jewellery. It lends an intentional sophistication and interferes in the best possible way, whilst not compromising an outfit or adding to the bulk.
Some of my favourite influencers follow the same theme, with sophisticated summer outfits that are breathable and comfortable, foremost. Continue reading for five classy summer looks I've bookmarked for July until September, fingers crossed!
1. Bandeau Dress + Shoulder Bag + Flip Flops
Style Notes: Marisa's outfit is effortlessly chic. The combination of a sculpted bandeau dress with a shoulder bag and flip-flops (a current trend we've witnessed in Wimbledon) is the perfect way to balance a dramatic silhouette. Exposing the décolletage is bound to keep you cool, although you can add a linen skirt atop if the weather calls for it.
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The sculpted top and fluted skirt work beautifully in conjunction.
Refined flip-flops are the summer sandals I recommend to all. When summer rolls around I'm rarely seen in anything else.
Demellier is best known for competitively priced, suave handbags. The Tokyo Shoulder bag is no exception.
Astrid Miyu released its latest pearl range just this week. The twisted infinite pearls are the perfect earrings for highlighting off-the-shoulder and bandeau silhouettes.
2. Linen Waistcoat Co-ord + Heeled Sandals + Rattan Crossbody Bag
Style Notes: Last summer, we witnessed an influx of waistcoats and it's continued well into 2024 with an emphasis on linen for summer. Pair the waistcoat with matching linen trousers for a uniform look and add your open-toe footwear of choice. The coordination adds an element of formality, particularly if you opt for smarter wide-leg linen trousers.
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We're still championing the Aspen linen top a year on. The gold rimmed buttons are a nod to '80s style.
A nonchalant pair of trousers you can dress up, or down.
Opt for a contemporary shaped rattan bag in this year's popular hammock shape.
Your summer sandals, sorted.
3. Free Flowing Dress + Heeled Sandals + Red Clutch
Style Notes: If you're looking for a day-to-night outfit, opt for a streamlined dress with a little heel and a trench coat as an additional outerwear layer. It is the UK, after all. The red handbag adds dimension to the look, as does the green jewellery. It's all in the small but intentional details.
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I'm so impressed with the shaping. It hangs beautifully on the body!
This plush bag will add a supple touch to any outfit.
Freshen things up with cream heels over black.
This teardrop jade stone introduces a natural element which ties in with the raw-hem cotton dress.
4. Sleeveless Knitted Co-ord + Bright Mules
Style Notes: When summer rolls around, so too do the knitted co-ords. Abi shows how to elevate a seemingly casual fabrication with satin mules in a zesty green.
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A light and breezy pointelle knit.
This peek-a-boo knit skirt features a considered underlay.
Satin slip-on mules with an itty bitty heel.
5. Tank Top + Straight-Leg Jeans + Mesh Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Jeans are a staple year-round, particularly if you're residing in the UK. When elevating a humble pair add a ballet pump and a classic handbag. Tuck the lengths of a top into the waistband for a streamlined look.
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COS excel when it comes to wardrobe basics.
An expensive-looking pair of jeans on the high street.
Swap the velvet blazer for an open linen overshirt in a neutral yet rich hue.
You'd be forgiven for thinking this is designer!
A nod to the cut-out ballet trend, although it feels a tad more refined.
