While the weather remains unpredictable, the season’s event itinerary remains animated, meaning a carefully curated selection of summer outfits is an absolute necessity.
From days in-office to holidays spent horizontal on a sun lounger, there’s an array of upcoming occasions that give avid shoppers the perfect excuse to zhuzh their seasonal wardrobes.
Yet, this doesn’t require nearly the amount of effort you may think. In an age of over-consumption, the trick is to invest in versatile pieces to see you through the warmer months. Less is more, after all.
For example, a Pucci graphic top can be worn for coffee-dates or date-nights. A neatly tailored Connor Ives waistcoat from meeting to mooching courtside at Wimbledon. A DÔEN slip dress will transport you from Regatta to romantic European sojourn. The world is truly your oyster when it comes to summer outfit planning.
For those with a penchant for trends, there are ample fads to lean into. The Pinterest Summer 2024 Trend Report noted a 770% spike in interest for ‘gingham shorts,’ a grand 950% interest increase for the term ‘corporate chic’ and an even more bewildering 6030% interest in the term ‘Y3K outfits.’
Ballet flats are still going strong, as are Adidas Sambas, short shorts and many fellow Gen Z-induced trends that spring to mind.
How to style them so they never lose their allure? Indulge in a mix of contemporary and timeless pieces, from jewellery to accessories. Look to style veterans such as Dua Lipa, Emily Ratajkowski and Sofia Richie Grainge, all of whom have mastered the art of interspersing cool-girl labels with a touch of evergreen luxury.
Whether sporty chic or quiet luxury floats your boat (we’re currently engaged in a full-blown love affair with tropical maximalism), discover the outfits to keep on your radar for all your upcoming summer soirees.
MORE: What to wear to Wimbledon 2024: 6 Outfit ideas that totally serve
MORE: The 10 chicest designer tennis bags to inspire your Wimbledon style game
Graphic Prints
Championed by brands such as Pucci, Versace and Blumarine, graphic prints will get the party started with a touch of maximalist flair.
- TOP: Pucci Ruffle-Trimmed Printed Chiffon Top, £275, NET-A-PORTER
- SKIRT: Denim Mini Skirt, £79, WHISTLES
- BAG: Coach Tabby 20 Leather Shoulder Bag, £375, SELFRIDGES
- EARRINGS: Monica Vinader 18ct Gold Plated Vermeil Silver Deia Chunky Medium Hoop Earrings, £150, LIBERTY
- SHOES: Mae Garnet, £229.50, FLABELUS
Timeless Tailoring
Tap into elegant timelessness with a tailored piece paired with a feminine, free-flowing garment to add dimension to any off-duty look.
- TOP: Connor Ives Recycled-Twill Vest, £420, NET-A-PORTER
- SKIRT: Acne Studios Waterfall Hem Midi Skirt, £550, END.
- NECKLACE: Joseph Necklace, £125, SEZANNE
- SHOES: Leather Ballet Flats, £149, ARKET
Beach Bliss
Curate an outfit that will take you from beach to bar with ease. A touch of colourful crochet à la Missoni, a striking beach bag and a sprinkling of chunky gold jewels will culminate in a glamorous yet practical beachside aesthetic.
- TOP: Reformation Malika Linen Halter Top, £198, LUSIAVIAROMA
- TROUSERS: Missoni Striped Crochet Flares, £450, FARFETCH
- EARRINGS: Annie's x Jade Jagger Mermaid & Starfish Earrings, £220, ANNIE'S IBIZA
- BAG: Prada Logo Crochet Tote Bag, £1550, MYTHERESA
- SHOES: Knot Slides, £340, DEAR FRANCES
Football Fever
Is it coming home? Football fever has gripped the country, so what better excuse to get into the spirit? Look to Martine Rose and Adidas for guidance.
- TOP: Martine Rose Logo-Print Panelled T-Shirt, £215, FARFETCH
- SKIRT: Denim Mini SKirt, £25, COTTON ON
- BAG: Adidas Originals 80s Mini Bowling Bag, £35, ASOS
- NECKLACE: Chopova Lowena Silver Top Dog Necklace, £335, SSENSE
- SHOES: MM6 Maison Margiela Multicolor Salomon Edition XT-4 Mules, £350, SSENSE
Négligée Romance
Whimsical and ethereal in equal measure, the not-so-humble négligée will inject your summer wardrobe with sultry sophistication. Add a frosting of pearls for smart soirees from Wimbledon to Henley Regatta.
- DRESS: DÔEN Obelia Dress, £372, NET-A-PORTER
- BAG: Mini Quinn Bag, £350, SHRIMPS
- EARRINGS: Vivienne Westwood Inass Pearl Drop Earrings, £135, MYTHERESA
- SHOES: Heeled Sandals, £49.99, MANGO
Gingham on Gingham
When it comes to summer style, gingham bloomers continue to reign supreme. Hone your It-girl style by layering your gorgeous gingham pieces, breaking it up with a baby blue shoe or graphic tee.
- TOP: Fiorucci Baby T-Shirt, £38, END.
- SHORTS: Gingham Boxers, £15.99, STRADIVARIUS
- BAG: Gimaguas Mini Franca Bag, £259, END.
- SCRUNCHIE: Good Squish Baby Wilder, £28, SELFRIDGES
- SHOES: Heeled Shoes with Buckle, £49.99, MANGO
Fiesta Flair
There's no need to shelve the colour once the sun sets. Take to the dance floor in a playful look brimming with girlish attitude. A pair of kitten heels teamed with a flippy handkerchief skirt will help you hone your dream fiesta-ready ensemble.
- TOP: Farm Rio Fruits Queen Satin Halterneck Top, £160, NET-A-PORTER
- SKIRT: Asymetric Ruffle Skirt, £29.99, MANGO
- EARRINGS: Paradise Flower Double Drop Earrings, £50, KATE SPADE
- SHOES: Jacquemus Regalo Heeled Mules 40, £575, HARRODS
How we chose:
- Style: Summer calls for an array of occasions, from days in-office to beachside soirees. We've included a range of outfits to suit every occasion and every style.
- Price: Variety is key, and therefore alongside pieces by some of our favourite designer labels, we've included some stylish picks from the high street if you're looking to save.
- Quality: From sustainable brands such as Farm Rio to luxury labels like Jacquemus, we've ensured our picks never compromise on quality. 100 per cent linen, lustrous silk and sustainably farmed cotton-based denim feature.
Why you should trust me:
My role on the fashion features team at HELLO! Fashion coupled with over 10 years experience in the fashion industry has enabled me to curate an expansive brand vocabulary and develop an eye for timeless yet on-trend pieces. Luxury trends spotlighting is my bread and butter, which helps me to predict trickle-down high-street trends that will appeal to the masses, be them seasoned style veterans or keen fashion rookies.
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