I Popped Into Zara and Created 5 Instantly Elegant Summer Outfits

After the first glimpse of warm days, the countdown to summer is officially on, and now feels like prime time to ready our wardrobes ahead of the new season.

This doesn't call for a big overhaul of our entire wardrobe, but a few considered buys to prop up our hardworking staples for the rest of summer and many more ahead. With holidays booked, dinner dates planned, and picnics in the park pending, I headed to the high street to hunt down expensive-looking pieces that will refresh my looks for the new season, and Zara had everything on my dream wish list.

When it comes to building a summer capsule wardrobe, it can be easy to fall for swiftly moving trends or very specific items that might not go the distance. Thankfully, I'm bringing my eight years of expertise in the fashion industry to guide you through. Whilst I will always support clever investment pieces with the design and quality to withstand changing aesthetics and years of wear, I also know that not everyone has the budget or inclination to make those purchases. Luckily, the great high street store offers a chance to dip into sophisticated styling without the hefty price tags.

Truthfully, I could have spent hours trying on all that Zara's summer collection has to offer; it's that strong. But I honed in on the most classic offerings that are not only easy to style but will feel contemporary no matter when you pull them out. I soon realised that I wasn't just trying on random pieces but curating elegant outfits that I could easily wear straight out of the store.

Now, let's get into the five easy yet sophisticated outfits I put together entirely from Zara's summer collection.

1. CLASSIC SHIRT + LIGHT JEANS

Style Notes: As a denim devotee, I'm always looking for new ways to embrace the fabric in the warmer months, and I've found the key is reaching for lighter shades. With the trending barrel-leg cut of the jeans I've kept the top classic with a striped shirt that will no doubt be a repeat feature in your outfits throughout the year. For an added summer feel, slip on easy sandals and grab a slouchy bag to add a laid-back edge.

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2. MINIMALIST DRESS + SUMMER ACCESSORIES

Style Notes: When the hottest days arrive, we all want getting dressed to be a simple task, and a great T-Shirt dress is made for those days when you have five minutes to get dressed. The balloon skirt brings a contemporary edge to this highly wearable dress, and with a few considered accessories of bold bangles, minimalist sandals and a summer-ready woven tote, you're ready to go.

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3. EASY CO-ORD

Style Notes: If you're looking for a ready-made outfit that you can rely on this summer, look to the easy co-ord. The ready-made pairing just requires accessories for styling, and there's a plethora of other outfits that can be built from the pieces. As brown and cream is such an elevated pairing, I'm leaning into this duo with a tonal bag and sandals, adding a playful beaded necklace as the final touch.

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4. NICE TOP + WHITE SKIRT

Style Notes: With warmer days on the horizon I'm most excited about stepping out in a great skirt, and Zara's pleated style has all my attention. Taking inspiration from the nice-top-and-jeans pairing, style with a playful printed top, and keep the elevated feeling high with tonal accessories.

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5. DAY-TO-NIGHT DRESS + ELEVATED ACCESSORIES

Style Notes: Whilst I tried this dress on with a simple pair of sandals and basket bag, this is the kind of dress that can also rise to all kinds of events this summer. For a more polished look, swap out chunky jewellery for these delicate flower earrings that compliment the pearl-effect clutch. Finally, kitten-heel sandals will bring a fashion-forward feel to your special event.

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