You’ve probably heard of celebrity stylist Angie Smith from her work with household names like Holly Willoughby, Eva Mendes, Davina McCall and Rochelle Humes. Smith has a gift for making her clients look effortlessly chic, usually on an affordable budget. She’s an advocate for shopping the high street—often mixing high and low pieces in her styling and her own wardrobe—and her talent for uncovering the most expensive-looking finds is unrivalled. So I’m sure you’ll be pleased to hear she’s now a Who What Wear UK columnist, here to share her expert shopping picks for the season along with some styling wisdom along the way. All I’ll say is ready your cards. Keep scrolling to see her key buys for spring 2024.
I’ve been a stylist and brand consultant for over 20 years now, and I’m a strong believer in buying less and wearing those pieces more. I’ve learnt from my experience re-working clients’ wardrobes that after editing them down to a smaller capsule, it becomes a lot easier to pull outfits together because you can actually see what’s in there.
When shopping for new pieces, it’s important to be practical and think of all the outfits you could wear them with from your existing wardrobe. But most importantly, you have to really love those new items to justify adding them to your rotation. When you wear them, they have to make you feel good—really good. They have to feel comfortable on your body; I’m a strong believer in buying the size that feels and looks the best on you—in some shops that might be a 12, in others an 18—it really doesn’t matter. The buys I include in my monthly edits will be ones that can be easily styled up in multiple ways, and will still be relevant years from now. We’re talking true wardrobe classics, and I’ll be showing you where to find them.
We’re well into May and lucky for us the days are lighter, the temperatures are rising and summer is finally starting to feel like something that we can shop for. With plenty of plans coming up, I’ve looked to covering all occasions. Wedding guest edits have arrived, and I’ve found a dress or two that are sure to rise to the occasion. In looking to expand my personal style, I put the ballet skirt trend that’s currently everywhere to the test and have concluded that it works best in a relaxed style with an oversized t-shirt, and light cardigan when the weather calls for it. I know it’s a big claim to make, but I think I’ve found the best holiday jumpsuit that just calls for a few accessories to make a complete look. Finally, but far from least, I’ve also done the hard work to track down the most flattering black swimsuit around, ready for far-flung adventures or beachside breaks alike.
Shop Angie Smith’s Summer 2024 Edit:
1. Ballet Skirt
SUZI KONDI
The Kyria Pleated Cotton-Poplin Midi Skirt
£405
Wear with a simple t-shirt and statement sandals that works for so many occasions.
2. Sandals
HUSH
Brinley Buckle Toe Post Sandal
£99
I’ve never had so many people ask me where my sandals are from.
3. Beach Dress
SUNDAY IN BROOKLYN
Sunday in Brooklyn Crochet Ruffle Tunic Maxi Dress
£140
Meet the beach dress of my dreams. I also think it will look nice with a similar shade long sleeved dress layered underneath.
4. Two-Piece Tailoring
ALIGNE
Mood Halter Neck Waistcoat
£125
ALIGNE
Marlene Striped Trouser
£129
5. Black Jumpsuit
HUSH
Billy Beach Jumpsuit
£79
This jumpsuit is giving me Suzie Kondo vibes. Whilst relaxed and easy this can definitely be dressed up. I see myself wearing this on repeat.
6. Straw Bag
ARKET
Fringe Straw Bag
£57
I know this will work with everything I pack for holidays.
7. Standout Top
CHRISTOPHER ESBER
Villus Crinkle Fringed Draped Top
£559
This could be red carpet worthy paired with a black or cream silk maxi, but works equally well with jeans like all the best tops do.
8. Black Swimsuit
THE UPSIDE
Camp Cove Pamela One Piece in Black
$190
I’ve tried a lot of black swimsuits, but this is the one I’ll be wearing all summer long.
9. Wedding Guest Dress
FREE PEOPLE
Gemma Maxi Dress
£88
The wedding guest dress of the summer
10. Silk Trousers
ARKET
Raw Silk Trousers
£159
I wear my Leset pair so much, and these are the best I’ve found on the high street.
11. Evening Dress
ANTHROPOLOGIE
The Fleur Strapless Satin Maxi Slip Dress
£128
A black tie summer wedding guest option that will never date.
12. Chic Cover-Up
ADMONA
Zaid Striped Gauze Shirt
£391
This shirt will work so well with cream jeans or denim shorts.
13. Travel Tote
PARAVEL
+ Net Sustain Main Line Vegan Leather-Trimmed Recycled-Canvas Duffle Bag
£290
I turn to this brand for reasonably priced and seriously chic travel totes.
14. Crochet Shirt
THE UPSIDE
Woodstock Malia Crochet Shirt in Multi
$350
I’ve been wearing this crochet shirt as a little jacket over a vest with trackpants on repeat.
15. Colourful Tailoring
ST. AGNI
Carter Pleated Recycled Twill Wide-Leg Pants
£490
I am so into this colour at the moment! The matching ice blue waistcoat is so good, but I also love the contrast with a deep red vest.
Shop More of Angie’s Picks:
WITH NOTHING UNDERNEATH
The Classic Denim Shirt in Off-White
£130
Add a spring edge to double denim ensembles with a fresh off-white shade.
TOTEME
Large Leather-Trimmed Striped Canvas Tote
£690
A go-to statement tote will instantly add a fresh edge to your wardrobe.
NOBODY’S CHILD
Fearne Cotton Brown Mock-Crochet Shell Top
£65
Wear on its own with classic jeans or size up and wear oversized with a simple T-shirt underneath.
TOTEME
High-Rise Wide-Leg Organic Jeans
£290
Fresh blue denim is a cornerstone of my wardrobe.
HUSH
Indra Satin Midi Skirt
£85
A satin midi skirt is part of every fashion person’s wardrobe. I wear mine with a light jumper and clogs.
GRENSON
Queenie Sandals
£195
Fisherman sandals are everywhere right now, but it’s taken me a few tries to find a pair I really like. This style by Grenson has an old-school feel that adds authenticity to the design, like something you’d buy from a little shop in a fishing village in Greece.
LESET
Kyoto Cotton Wide-Leg Pants
£280
After buying and loving Leset pyjama pants back in February, I recently tried this similar style and so far, I’m impressed. Try adding a chunky jumper and thong sandals or a fine, strappy linen vest in the same shade to give the illusion of a matching set.
THE UPSIDE
Louie Sweater in White
£100
A classic cricket jumper will always be in style, and I’m wearing this one on repeat right now. It’s super soft and seriously easy to style.
LESET
Margo Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt
£68
I always get asked what tee I wear the most daily, and currently, it’s the Margo by Leset. I love how thin the cotton is, making it semi-sheer, and the neckline is a classic crew.
MANGO
Long Dress With Velvet Details
£90
With wedding season incoming, this is a great option to have on your radar.
SOEUR
Austin Shirt
£195
Denim is so reliable, so it makes sense to tick off two pieces in a matching set.
SOEUR
Alexis Jeans
£200
I’d wear these with fisherman sandals or heeled clogs.
FREE PEOPLE
Free-Est Lowen Midi Skirt
£60
One of my favourite skirt trends at the moment is a classic cotton midi in fresh white. Chic and simple, it takes little to reach new heights with this piece; even a simple tee will do.
TOTEME
Wool and Cashmere-Blend Sweater
£480
My green obsession continues and this shade is perfection! Wear with denim over cotton boxers, and play up the accessories with big socks and chunky sandals.
SÉZANE
Will Jacket
£105
Sezane’s Will Jacket is one of the best investments you can make at this time of year, and it’s a very reasonable one at that. I wear mine with fresh white denim and suede pieces.
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Hera Sandals
£135
At this time of year, we get a few days to bare the toes again. I’ve always loved the contrast of jeans, a light jumper or button-down, and a pair of flip-flops. These classic leather ones from Ancient Greek Sandals are so comfortable, and the leather gives a smarter feel to your look, meaning they work well in-between seasons.
LOEWE X + PAULA’S IBIZA
Puzzle Fold Large Leather-Trimmed Raffia Tote
£1550
Basket bags go with everything, and that’s why my collection continues to grow.
DÔEN
Pamelina Dress in Daffodil Yellow Lace
£528
There are many reasons to get dressed up during the spring and summer months, and I can’t stop thinking about this sunny style by Dôen. From the joyful yellow shade to the elegant smocked bodice, I can imagine wafting around in the floaty fabric everywhere from garden parties to spring weddings.
LEVI’S
Levi’s 501 Mid-Thigh Shorts
£68
These are my latest on-repeat wear on warmer days. Granted, I live in Sydney, and our summer has just come to a close, but this means that you can trust me when I say I’ve already road-tested these for you. I’d been looking to tap into the Bermuda trend but with a more classic edge, so I opted for these Levi 501 shorts in a size larger for a more relaxed fit.
ADIDAS ORIGINALS
Squash Indoor Suede-Trimmed Leather Sneakers
£90
As much as I like the look of bright, colourful trainers, I haven’t been able to make a pair work in my wardrobe. That was until I came across these in predominantly white with colourful accents that make them much easier for me to style. I bought this pair in a half size up and popped them on a cold wash to break up the box-fresh look.
THE UPSIDE
Bleecker Quinn Knit Vest in White
£150
Spring’s answer to the cashmere sweater is the cotton vest. I’ve found myself wearing this one by The Upside on repeat since it arrived. The chocolate contrast stripe is such a nice detail, and it can easily be dressed up or down. Go full test match with the co-ordinating track pants or add some ’70s cool with wide-leg, tailored trousers or off-white jeans.
LOULOU STUDIO
Adiran Twisted One-Shoulder Silk-Twill Top
£246
No one can deny the usefulness of a “nice top” to pair with jeans. Last year, I bought a similar style top and wore it so much that I decided there’s definitely space in my life for another one.
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Aerati
£225
As much as a basket bag is synonymous with the sunnier months, I’m making a case for the basket shoe. This woven pair is in line with the current love for mesh styles and is a great way to dress down your pieces for warm spring days, adding a lived-in feel.
BARBOUR
Crowdon Showerproof Jacket
£199
A festival favourite and all-round practical buy, Barbour always comes through in the jacket department. Considering the temperamental weather, this makes for a clever addition to any Brit’s wardrobe, especially in a cool oatmeal shade.
WITH NOTHING UNDERNEATH
The Boyfriend Fine Poplin in Inverted Pinstripe
£95
I have a lot of button-downs in my wardrobe, but this mini stripe style in pale blue is the one I’ve worn most. Throughout the warm months here in Sydney, I’ve found myself reaching for this shirt to throw over swimwear, gym gear or simply with jeans and a vest. For the loose fit I like, I sized up twice.
LESET
Barb Satin Midi Dress
£380
Quite simply, a great black dress is a wardrobe hero. I have a few pieces in this exact fabric from Leset, which feels like a heavy satin, and I love how it falls.
HAULIER
Large Utility Tote in Tan
£375
My latest brand obsession comes is Haulier, and if you’re also a fan of wardrobe classics with a vintage twist, it might just become yours too. Stock up on boxer shorts, matching velour sets, pyjama-style jackets or one of its iconic tote bags (currently top of my list). And don’t forget some socks; the colours are spot on.
DRIES VAN NOTEN
Crocheted Cotton Polo Shirt
£695
My love of green started last year with a pair of track pants by Bassike and has continued to grow, even driving the purchase of a green luggage set. This crochet top recently caught my eye and ticks a lot of boxes. It shares the qualities of some of the wardrobe items I reach for over and over again, from the crochet construction to the collar detail and loose fit.
M&S COLLECTION
Cotton Rich Single Breasted Relaxed Blazer
£69
I have the two-piece version from last year and can confirm that it’s worth investing in. Not only is it ideal as a relaxed evening look, but each piece works hard separately. The cut is particularly good and it definitely looks more expensive than it is.
MASSIMO DUTTI
Crew Neck Knit Sweater
£90
This beautiful knit is one of the best I’ve come across for spring. It’s lighter than my winter go-tos and has a semi-sheer feel that’s perfect for the warmer months.
ALIGNE
Shani Leo Long Waistcoat
£119
This playful waistcoat is part of a set that would make an ideal spring wedding outfit. You could also pair it with cut-off denim shorts for a very Glasto feel come summer.
ARKET
Woven Cotton Boxers Set of Two
£27
As soon as it’s warm enough (and even if it’s not, to be totally honest), I’m keen to bare a little leg. One combination with just the right amount of spring style is striped shorts, chunky socks and an even chunkier jumper, all wrapped under a wool coat. I recently invested in a pair by St. Agni, but Arket has very similar style.
LESET
Barb Satin Wide-Leg Pants
£220
Loose satin trousers are an eveningwear staple for me, and this is my latest investment from Leset. After buying them, I also realised they were part of a matching set with a halter top, which I bought in the Net-A-Porter sale last year.
TIMBERLAND
Noreen Boat Shoes
£180
Set to become one of summer’s biggest shoe trends thanks to Miu Miu, boat shoes are on course for a return. Keep them classic like this Timberland pair, and wear them in for a well-worn look.
FREE PEOPLE
Tinsley Baggy High-Rise Jeans
£98
I’ve been after a pair of brown jeans for a while now but was hunting for a warmer tone, and then I came across this perfect ’70s-inspired pair.
LESET
Yoshi Striped Cotton-Poplin Shirt
£250
Crisp cotton PJs to wear out of the house? Yes, please! I recently invested in this pair by Leset, which I’ve been styling and re-styling ever since. They are quite literally perfect and work just as well as separates as they do together.
LESET
Yoshi Pinstriped Cotton-Poplin Wide-Leg Pants
£260
The button-down makes for a brilliant beach cover-up thanks to the long, bum-covering hem, and the trousers are a sleek, clean cut, with no bells or whistles, making them incredibly easy to wear. I style them with a simple T-shirt, cashmere jumper and clogs for an off-duty look or comfortable travel ensemble.
ARKET
Fitted Overshirt
£159
This jacket-overshirt hybrid feels really fresh for spring. Because of the refined silhouette with a nod to the ’70s, it went straight into my basket.
MADE IN MADA
Gemma S Bag
£120
Often an item reserved strictly for summer, the humble wicker bag has been given icon status in recent years by every design brand worth its salt. I’m a big fan of this logo-free bag and use mine all year round. I love how it instantly dresses down more formal pieces and makes your overall look feel effortlessly cool.
ARKET
Crew-Neck Ribbed Jumper
£119
Good ol’ Arket.
MANGO
Double-Sided Leather-Effect Jacket
£100
Mango is known for knocking it out of the park with its outerwear. This would be my pick of the latest drop.
ARKET
Curved Leather Bag
£269
I haven’t stopped wearing my Khaite crossbody bag since I got it, and this is the best high-street iteration.
ALIGNE
Michaela High Neck Belted Oversize Knit
£119
Both parts of this set work so well as separates as well as together.
ALIGNE
Mysti Fluted Midaxi Knitted Skit
£99
Apart or together, these make for great workwear pieces.
JIGSAW
Italian Wool Maxi Coat
£450
Jigsaw knows how to cut a decent wool coat, and this colour is so beautiful, plus it looks much more expensive than its price tag.
& OTHER STORIES
Wool Bib Collar
£65
Add instant style and some much-needed warmth to tops and dresses with a wool bib.
ACNE STUDIOS
Vally Wool-Blend Scarf
£230
Easy to throw on and perfect for adding a fun pop to your looks during the drearier months.
JIGSAW
Chevron Ski Jumper
£220
This one is pretty perfect. Just enough of a statement but not so overpowering that it still goes with everything.
& OTHER STORIES
Oversized Knit Midi Dress
£120
This is giving me Lauren Manoogian vibes.
SÉZANE
Matheo Trousers in Mottled Beige
£135
I have a pair and can confirm they are seriously warm, and not at all itchy.
SEE BY CHLOÉ
Juliet Shearling-Lined Suede and Leather Ankle Boots
£375
Trust me—you’ll have them for years and they can be worn with everything in that effortless French-woman way.
TIBI
Cashmere Socks
£115
Looking like you know a thing or two about fashion has never been so easy— just add red socks. Make them cashmere for extra cosiness!
ISABEL MARANT
Leandra Merino Wool and Cashmere-Blend Sweater
£595
Not quite cream, not quite yellow— butter is the elevated colour trend that we saw emerging last summer with the rise in quiet luxury, and I’m predicting it will continue to grow next season and beyond.
ARKET
Cloud Low Loose Jeans
£97
Loose, relaxed denim continues to reign as the fashion pack’s favourite for 2024, and I’m not mad about it. For bonus style points, go for a pair in dark indigo.
THE ROW
Flash Wool and Silk-Blend Shorts
£1200£720
Longer Bermuda shorts started popping up again in summer 2023 and will continue to gather pace in 2024. Think office attire with a blazer come spring or for evenings with an open button-down or loose halterneck top. You could even start wearing them now with sheer or fishnet tights layered underneath.
ALIGNE
Jamison Denim Trench Coat
£249
If you were quick to bag this Aligne denim trench when it came out earlier this year, you’re already ahead of the game. Luckily it’s still in stock, for now.
FREE PEOPLE
We The Free Jayde Flare Jumpsuit
£148
Quite possibly one of the easiest trends to get on board with this coming year is fresh white. Got a white T-shirt and some ecru jeans in your wardrobe? You’re already there. Want to make life even easier? This jumpsuit is the answer.
LOEWE
Puzzle Large Leather Tote
£1600
The easiest way to introduce a pop of colour into your wardrobe is with a bag, in my opinion. If in doubt, keep the style classic and go bolder with the colour.
FREE PEOPLE
Filter Finish Long Sleeve
£128
Sheer doesn’t have to mean bare. I love how flattering a top like this can look when layered under a dress or blazer.
ANOTHER TOMORROW
Fringe-Scarf Viscose Tank Top
£515
This is a great trend to introduce for a night out, dressed down with denim (of course). For day, a fringed jacket in suede is what the fashion crowd have been wearing on repeat since Autumn.
VEDA
Veda Marco Leather Oversized Bomber
$658
A leather bomber jacket will never go out of style. However, I’m not sure I will ever wear one that isn’t oversized again. In the same way as denim, there is something so effortlessly cool about wearing a piece that looks like you’ve shopped it from the menswear department. This jacket by Reformation has exactly the right look. Wear it over, well, absolutely anything to elevate your look in a very non-try-hard way.
SÉZANE
Naelle Skirt
£135
This cardigan and skirt set also comes in navy, green, black, beige, purple and stripes.
RE/DONE
Recycled Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt
£105
My current favourite white T-shirt is by RE/DONE. It’s next-level soft and the collar sits at the perfect height to add a contrasting under layer to your winter knits, flannel shirts and wool blazers that need pepping up.
ARKET
Cable-Knit Alpaca Jumper
£129£77
This jumper is giving me Khaite or Gabriela Hearst vibes in spades but at a very affordable high-street price tag. Style it simply to let it do all the talking and you have yourself a laid back look that feels and looks ridiculously chic. This is the statement jumper for minimalists.
FREE PEOPLE
We The Free Janey Engineer Boots
£448
If you feel like your outfit is wearing you, then throw on some trainers or biker boots—they will instantly dress your look down a notch and make it feel effortlessly cool.
WITH NOTHING UNDERNEATH
The Classic: Fine Brushed, Rust Check
£125
Is this not the most perfect plaid shirt you ever did see? And if blues and greens are more your match, check out the other colourway.
THE REFORMATION
Winston Blazer
£298
I have a blazer like this in my wardrobe and love how it instantly pulls together a very average jeans and T-shirt look. The tones in it also mean that it goes with nearly every shade of denim, and it’s super flattering on the skin.
WHISTLES
Emily Ultimate T-Shirt
£35
A pop of red is one of this season’s biggest trends, and I love the idea of wearing it subtly by layering a red T-shirt under a crewneck jumper or sweater so you just get a little flash. Keep it feeling modern by mixing with camel, navy, grey and brown.
SÉZANE
Gabin Bag
£360
Finding an effortless-looking bag that fits a laptop is hard—trust me. Sézane has nailed it with its camel Gabin. It’s lived-in, has a beautiful colour and exudes laid-back chic.
KIRSTIE LE MARQUE
Angie Smith X Klm Diamond St Christopher Necklace
£375
I’ve worn a St Christopher for over 20 years, and I’m a little bit superstitious about mine. I love how you can also wear this style back to front to make it look like a simple gold disc if your outfit is more minimal.
Next Up: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week
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