Finally, the weather has turned a corner and it looks like we’re in for a sunny season at last. For nature enthusiasts, there’s no better way to enjoy summer‘s newfound sun than a trip to London’s esteemed Chelsea Flower Show. Running from 21 to 25 May, the five-day event promises inspired garden designs and charming floral displays en masse and has been known to attract local celebrities and some of the city’s best dressed year after year.
If you’ve carved out time for a day in the heart of Chelsea this week then you’ll likely be in the market for a dose of styling inspiration. With the recent change in temperatures, it can take some time to reacquaint yourself with your warm-weather-wardrobe, so I’ve done the research and pulled together five fail-safe outfits that will ensure you feel comfortable, put-together and right at home with the stylish bunch.
WHAT IS THE CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW DRESS CODE?
The Chelsea Flower Show doesn’t have a strict dress code, but guests are encouraged to dress in “smart/casual” attire. This means that dresses, skirts and trousers are all welcome, but you may want to leave your trainers at home for this event.
Read on to discover what to wear to the Chelsea Flower Show 2024.
WHAT TO WEAR TO THE CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW 2024
1. PRETTY PRINTS
Style Notes: There’s no better time to reach for your favourite pretty prints than when amongst vivid flowers and stunning botanical displays. From draped dresses to printed skirts, this summer-ready trend is ideal for daytime styling.
SHOP PRINTED DRESSES:
RIXO
Lauriane Dress
£325
This comes in sizes 6–26.
H&M
Linen-Blend Blouse in White/Blue Floral
£16
Style with straight-leg jeans or loose, wide linen trousers.
ME+EM
Cheesecloth Modern Daisy Print Maxi Skirt
£125
I love Me+Em’s take on a more graphic floral print.
ROUJE
Roselena Dress
£215
This pretty summer dress is bound to sell out.
2. A COOL CO-ORD
Style Notes: High impact, low effort—a matching set is the easiest way to ensure you look put-together and polished all day. Select a matching trouser suit for an elevated take or opt for a sleek shorts combo for a more playful feel.
SHOP CO-ORDS:
JIGSAW
Irish Linen Twill Gibson Jacket in Green
£260
Style with the matching trousers or wear with jeans.
JIGSAW
Irish Linen Twill Palazzo Trouser in Green
£150
These also come in black.
VERONICA BEARD
Tamara Cotton-Blend Bouclé-Tweed Vest
£398
Waistcoat-style vests are one of the biggest top trends around right now.
VERONICA BEARD
Jazmin Cotton-Blend Bouclé-Tweed Shorts
£298
This elegant set is perfect for summer events.
3. LIGHT LINENS
Style Notes: For a day spent wandering around in the spring sun, there’s no material that will better equip you than light linen layers. Opt for a dress or trending linen vest for a fresh, summer-ready look you’ll feel comfortable in all day long.
SHOP LINEN PIECES:
M&S COLLECTION
Linen Rich Cross Back Blouse in Conker
£30
This rich terracotta shade looks so good with bright whites and creams.
REFORMATION
Balia Linen Dress in White
£298
This also comes in six other colours.
COS
Tailored Linen-Blend Maxi Skirt in Dusty Pink
£110
This pretty pink shade works so well with dark brown and burgundy.
REALLY WILD
Langdon Linen Blend Wide Leg Pleated Trouser
£285
The pale blue colour trend is taking off this season.
4. A COTTON SKIRT
Style Notes: Voluminous cotton skirts are set to become a summer staple. With a naturally light and airy feel, they’re ideal for those high step-count days. Style with a simple vest or wear with a graphic tee for a casual take.
SHOP COTTON SKIRTS:
REFORMATION
Petites Lucy Skirt in White
£198
Wear with a loose navy knit on chilly evenings.
GANNI
Cotton Midi Skirt
£170
This bright pink shade is bound to put a spring in your step.
FREE PEOPLE
Free-Est Lowen Midi Skirt in Mellow Yellow
£60
This also comes in five other colours.
COS
Elasticated Midi Skirt in Beige
£85
Style with the matching top or wear with a white tee.
Shop the matching Short-Sleeved Resort Shirt in Beige (£75).
5. A WHITE DRESS
Style Notes: There’s no better way to get into the summer spirit than by styling up your favourite white dress. With a pretty, summer-ready energy, this classically “feminine” trend is a natural choice for the daytime event. Pair it with strappy heels to elevate your styling, otherwise keep it classic with chic Mary Janes.
SHOP WHITE DRESSES:
MARKS & SPENCER
Pure Cotton Midi Cami Shift Dress
£40
This is set to sell out very soon.
AJE.
Mimosa Cutout Gathered Linen-Blend Midi Dress
£460
The puff-sleeve detail adds such a pretty touch.
MANGO
Halter-Neck Open-Back Dress in Off-White
£36
This also comes in red and black.
H&M
Poplin-Skirt Ribbed Jersey Dress
£20
Layer on some colourful accessories or keep it simple and style white on white.