This summer, more so than ever, we’re ready to embrace the holiday months with a warm-weather wardrobe that makes our hearts sing. Whether staying at home or going further afield, now’s the time to reach for those timeless summer-box favourites; think feminine broderie anglaise, touches of raffia, woven totes and perfect shorts. Seasonal updates come by way of sunny splashes of yellow, statement wide-brim hats and bold African ankara prints – add to your closet now and wear for summers to come. Whether you’re investing in new keepsakes or seeking inspiration for how to wear your existing collection, here’s your guide to high summer.
Fresh, feminine broderie anglaise is a staple in our summer boxes, and with good reason; carefree yet polished, its versatile appeal will see you right through the season. We’re taking inspiration from the Erdem and McQueen catwalks by styling white dresses with sleek leather accessories and statement earrings. Meanwhile, Ulla Johnson demonstrated why a classic ruffled blouse is a must; team with shorts and sandals for an effortless summer look.
Nothing makes us happier than the combination of form and functionality, which is why we’re backing this season’s focus on the wide-brimmed hat. This is the perfect piece to provide shade for delicate skin when in the sun, while also making for a chic finishing touch to any summer ensemble. Take a cue from the catwalk and opt for classic silhouettes in raffia, cotton or linen.
Having been championed for several seasons, tie-dye has cemented itself as a true forever trend. The key to wearing it successfully is to temper the carefree print with refined summer silhouettes; think classic midis, fuss-free jumpsuits and elegant blouses. Be playful with colour combinations, using them to inject flair into your summer box. Keep the rest of the outfit sleek with minimal accessories and lightweight tailoring.
When it comes to summer style muses, Jane Birkin is forever on our mood board, not least for her chic employment of crochet. This season, the retro look gets brought up to date, having been rendered in contemporary silhouettes and wearable colour ways by the likes of Isabel Marant and Rejina Pyo. Mix pieces into your existing warm-weather wardrobe for a hint of 1970s-inspired bohemian spirit.
A staple summer silhouette, the perfect pair of shorts is an invaluable addition to your holiday collection. A gentle A-line cut with a high waist will prove universally flattering, while good quality fabrics (think breathable cotton, linen and chambray) will hang properly. Opt for pale, sun-ready neutrals, which can slot effortlessly into the rest of your wardrobe.
Summer accessories don’t come chicer than an elevated woven bag, and its timeless appeal means that investing in one will always be a smart move. Reach for luxe iterations with considered detailing, such as leather trims and premium hardware, which will look as stylish on the beach as they will back in the city. Capacious styles that accommodate holiday essentials are a must.
Summer is the perfect time to play with print, and this season’s catwalks took inspiration from around the world to provide a bright, bold repertoire. Saturated in hue and impactful in design, they simply sing summer and make for a statement look. We particularly love traditional African ankara motifs, which are beautifully showcased on long-length dresses. Team with beach-ready jewels and simple sandals.
If there’s one colour guaranteed to get us in the holiday mood, it’s yellow. The sunny hue was ubiquitous on the summer catwalks, worn head to toe for a sophisticated tonal look. The trick is to find a shade that suits, so it’s worth trying on a wide spectrum to discover the perfect one. Once found, invest in a timeless summer dress for effortless one-step dressing.
Along with ocean swims and 6pm cocktails, raffia is something we can’t imagine holiday season without. Just a touch will transform summer basics into a polished, sun-ready outfit. Look to Dior and consider a statement raffia skirt teamed with a classic cotton shirt, or make like Oscar de la Renta and add a textured bag to a simple mini and sandals. Did someone say gelato?