Having just emerged from a heatwave, it’s safe to say we’re firmly in summer shopping mode. Light jackets and transitional layers have been shelved in favour of breezy ensembles and effortless two-piece sets. Summer has always been my favourite season for fashion — there’s a nostalgic joy in holiday dressing, and a laid-back ease that invites simplicity. As temperatures soar and layers are stripped back, styling becomes more intentional yet refreshingly fuss-free. Dresses and co-ords naturally rise to the occasion, offering an easy elegance with minimal effort.
As a devoted dress person, I relish the feel of free-flowing frocks catching the summer breeze. I lean into natural fabrics — think breathable cottons and relaxed linens — that not only keep me cool but elevate everyday wear. Once reserved for beach escapes, linen is now being thoughtfully styled for everything from weekday errands to formal functions, and even the office.
Summer is also the time I begin to introduce statement pieces into my wardrobe — still very much in keeping with my refined, trend-resistant aesthetic. But this season, even I’m feeling the pull of directional details. Bandeau silhouettes, rich reds and sculptural jewellery are calling. There’s no better way to elevate a monochrome outfit than with a pair of bold studs that channel your inner '80s heroine.
Discover my curated edit of standout pieces worth investing in — or simply drawing inspiration from — this July and beyond.
Shop My Edit for July:
COS' easy breezy Gathered dress is already making waves in the influencer space. Style with ballet flats, Birkenstocks or flip flops, depending on the occasion.
A light wash pair of jeans is essential for easy spring/summer dressing, and ME+EM excels at designing high-quality denim that'll last you seasons.
Massimo's linen trousers have an almost satin-like sheen which will quickly elevate any look.
When it comes to polka-dot dresses, this style from Mattheau—the mid-price brand taking over social media—is my number one choice.
A woven bag is crucial when it comes to summer dressing, and this COS style will fit everything but the kitchen sink.
A best-seller for a reason, the Balia linen dress, with its fitted bodice and flowing skirt, is available in a range of colours.
The sell-out flip flops are back with a sleek, designer-looking feel. Style with everything from a pair of linen trousers and a white shirt, to a tank top and silk midi skirt.
What started with indigo denim jeans has culminated in a whole dark denim revival and the trend has now tricked down into dresses. Case in point: this sleek style from Massimo.
Not quite Bermuda shorts, not quite short shorts, this relaxed pair of Agolde are available in array of washes.
I've said it once and I'll say it again—shirt dresses are a summer office-wear saviour. Arket has nailed the brief with this blue and white style, also available in brown.
Romantic, flirty and fun, the Naira dress from Ref is the only occasion-wear dress I'm planning on wearing this season.
If you prefer a mini, Arket's gingham dress is easy to style up or down depending on the occasion.
A braided slip-on sandal is the easiest way to add texture to your look.
The dress that's all over Instagram, say hello to Free People's best-selling Butterfly Babe dress.
The t-shirt dress is having a major comeback at the moment, and Toteme's take is as chic as it gets. Style with black flip flops and your favourite woven raffia.
If you're looking for an alternative to the classic raffia totes, Demellier's chic, sophisticated take on the trend is slightly more elevated.
The ultimate timeless frame, the gold-tone rim add the perfect touch to any look.
A boho dress of dreams, prance around a Greek island in this effortless cut-out dress.
DÔEN's Emmaretta has a cult celebrity following, including Selena Gomez, Kylie Jenner and more. Shop this fun gingham iteration for a fun summer 2025 style.
COS' barrel-leg trousers were in Lyst's Q1 Index, and this summer pair are set for a similar sell-out success.
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