After kicking off the season with all the best fashion intentions, I always find that a few weeks in, I’m struggling to find outfits that feel fresh and exciting. Unpredictable British weather means always taking a risk, especially in summer when we desperately want to wear strappy dresses and sandals, but it’s not always practical. It’s time to hit refresh—and I can always rely on my favourite influencers to give me a good dose of outfit inspiration.
Here’s what I’m looking for: understatedly cool outfits that have just the right amount of polish to make them look well-considered, without looking fussy. It’s got to be simple, but high-impact, and ideally be based around a few staples I already own (or am happy to upgrade). And while I want the outfits to look expensive, I don’t want them to break the bank. After much scrolling, I think I’ve found five that fit the bill. Scroll on to see my picks.
1. Slip Dress + Blazer
Style Notes: This is the year I’m determined to master the art of high-low dressing, and Samantha’s outfit is an example of my dream look. The contrast between the masculine blazer and slinky slip dress is deliciously good, and the individual elevated staples can be reworked in so many different outfits.
Shop the look:
THE ROW
Marina Oversized Wool Blazer
£3000
A beige blazer can be styled so many ways throughout the year.
MISSOMA
Classic Tunnel Medium Hoop Earrings | 18ct Gold Plated
£125
I cannot stop singing the praises of Missoma’s hoop earrings.
TOPSHOP
Lace Pin Tuck Tie Shoulder Midi Dress in Mono Spot
£42
A fail-safe option for evenings out.
ZARA
Minimalist Shoulder Bag With Flap
£26
This is the ideal everyday bag.
2. Crew-neck + Boxer Shorts + Plimsolls
Style Notes: How to make pyjama-esque shorts feel daytime-appropriate? Add a crew neck, plimsolls and a luxury bag, à la Kim Turkington.
Shop the look:
UNIQLO
100% Extra Fine Merino Crew Neck Jumper
£30
This jumper has a timeless feel that means you’ll be reaching for it for years to come.
MONKI
Mini Cotton Shorts
£20
Such a sweet set!
DRAGON DIFFUSION
Brown Nantucket Big Bag
£380
I predict you’ll see this bag on the arms of many of your favourite influencers this year.
VANS
Authentic Trainers in White
£57
Affordable, versatile and oh-so comfortable. What’s not to like?
3. Waistcoat + Baggy Jeans
Style Notes: I’ve grown a bit tired of tank tops, and I think a waistcoat is such a fresh, elevated alternative. Worn with loose-fitting jeans, it strikes the ideal balance between polished and contemporary.
Shop the look:
MANGO
Suit Waistcoat With Buttons
£26
No one will believe this is a high street find.
NA-KD
Wide Retro Look Sunglasses
£20
Tortoiseshell shades are such a fun styling touch for this look.
H&M
Baggy High Jeans
£38
H&M jeans are criminally underrated.
GANNI
Black Feminine Buckle Ballerinas
£325
A true modern icon.
4. Sweatshirt + Linen Trousers
Style Notes: On lazy summer weekends, the idea of putting a tonne of effort into getting dressed can be unappealing. Anouk proves that all you really need is comfy separates and sleek accessories to look put-together.
Shop the look:
ARKET
French Terry Sweatshirt
£47
Pair this with jeans or trousers and you’ve instantly got a comfortable weekend look.
LOEWE
Puzzle Fold Convertible Medium Leather Tote
£1450
The sculptural shape will balance out the relaxed outfit.
COS
Wide-Leg Linen Drawstring Trousers
£65
These versatile trousers can easily go from work to after-hours plans.
LORO PIANA
Summer Charms Sandal
£620
We love a low-effort sandal.
5. Strapless Top + Denim Skirt + Flip-Flops
Style Notes: The dream warm-weather outfit formula. You could easily swap the skirt for a lightweight cotton midi on balmier days.
Shop the look:
WHISTLES
Lula Crepe Bandeau Top
£65
Take it from day to night.
ANNIKA INEZ
Sterling Silver Small Cord Heart Pendant Necklace
£125
I just can’t resist this jewellery trend.
COS
Panelled Denim Maxi Skirt
£95
This denim skirt feels like a modern take.
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Saionara
£125
Yes, you do need a new pair of sandals.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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