Not sure whether you noticed, but we’ve already had our flash-in-the-pan summer this past bank holiday. Temperatures went double- digit on us, as sun-starved Brits flocked to parks, and any other open space we could find where the sun would feed our winter-ravaged complexions.
However, now that we’re back to the climatic reality we’re used to living with this side of the pond (wholly unfair), we’re not letting grey skies and constant downpours dampen our spirits (pun intended), and instead drawing up bright and bold summer shopping lists ready for when the sun finally appears again!
To make the process of leaving behind the comfort of your winter wardrobe (we know, it’s a sorry state of affairs in May!), we’ve picked out 15 summer essentials every discerning style maven needs in her wardrobe this season.
From the eclectically printed short, ideal for pairing with a smart blazer, as it is with a louche tee, to pretty printed jeans and the perfect day-to-night blouse option; our need now edit has all your sartorial wants and needs covered.
So go ahead, treat yourself, and patiently wait for the clear skies to arrive. And even if the clouds don’t disappear, we promise you’ll want to slip into these delicious wares anyway!
Rag & Bone Cotton Winchester Shirt, £365, Stylebop: A crisp white shirt never goes amiss with any summer ensemble. Wear with skinny jeans, heeled sandals and a dinky shoulder bag.
Kurt Geiger Bergonia Clutch, £79: Make this statement studded clutch your go-to accessory this summer.
Wrap Dungarees, £50, River Island: Dungarees are an undisputed wardrobe winner this season. We love this smart, black wrap version, perfect for work and play.
Silk Front Jumper, £95, Reiss: Don’t dismiss knits as being too hot and heavy for summer. This fine, silk front jumper is ideal for when the temperature rises.
Embroidered Dress, £34.99, Mango: We love the Isabel Marant vibe of this pretty summer dress – but at a fraction of the price!
River Island Angel Wing Necklace, £15, Asos: What would summer be without a look-at-me neck piece? This one is high on our lust list.
Bandana Printed Jeans, £150, The Kooples: Paisley on denim is a jean lovers dream come true.
Diane von Furstenberg Feriha Jacket, £308, Matches: Ditch formal black jackets in favour of this zingy number. The curved deep-V neckline detail makes it smart enough for work, while the coral-pink colour is perfect for after-work drinks.
Pierre Hardy Sandals, £420, Net-a-Porter: Its the classic summer shoe style, but with a sleek twist. Wear these wedges with skinny leather trousers and a jumper for day, or pair with a mini skirt and tee for night.
Pleated Frill Top, £29.99, H&M: We like to call this the hard working top; subtle enough for day, with the right amount of detail for an evening look.
Theory Andes Shorts, £178, My Wardrobe: The graphic jacquard print has us dreaming about sandy beaches, but the culotte-style design makes these shorts the new way to do fun formal.
Colville Cross Body Bag, £100, French Connection: A multi-tasking, wardrobe and season transcending shoulder bag. Need we say more?
Jacquie Aiche Bracelet Ring, £73.52, Shopbop: Summer is all about making everything seem barely there, and this filigree bracelet ring does just that.
Slip-on Espadrille, £110, Whistles: Espadrilles are the new summer flat, and when they’re doused in leopard print that looks this good, we just can’t refuse. You’ll live in these this summer.
Oswald Helgason Skirt, £260, Browns: This skirt screams day-to-night at us from every angle. Eye-catching detail and a flattering cut are sure-fire style winners.
