I can't quite believe we're halfway through the year already, even though I swear my brain feels like it's only just waved goodbye to last Christmas. Anyway, here we are, falling head first into summer 2024, and so begins another season of searching for the perfect slouchy-yet-smart linen trousers and easy dresses to wear on repeat, and working out which sandal tribe we'll be committing to for the coming months.
I'm going to try and be as disciplined as I can this season, focusing on what's already in my wardrobe and reworking old favourites as well as thinking smartly about which new pieces can really elevate my regular rotation. As a starting point, I always find it helpful to scroll through the new-in sections, even if it's just to get inspiration about what fresh colours or silhouettes to experiment with. And this summer's drops do not disappoint.
Francesca Saffari wearing COS culottes.
If you do happen to be looking for easy, high-impact pieces to add to your summer wardrobe, you'll be glad to hear you won't have to take out another mortgage this year. From my research so far there are so many impressive, affordable buys on the high street right now, sure to stand the test of time.
For warm-weather wardrobe heroes that never get old, I would recommend exploring linen (Marks and Spencer, H&M and COS have the best selections right now) in loose-fitting silhouettes that will keep you cool and will look chic for years. Loose, throw-on dresses are also the gift that keeps on giving, as they tend to be flexible size-wise but also so easy to style (Arket has some very cool pieces in bright colours and classic neutrals this summer) depending on your vibe.
So whether you just want some new-season inspo or are looking for something to fill a gap in your wardrobe, scroll down to see and shop my feel-good summer high-street edit.
1. Arket
From fresh neutrals to pops of bright colours, Arket's summer collection is full of easy, breezy pieces I know I'll live in all season and beyond. My current crush? I just can't stop thinking about that satin mini skirt.
Shop Arket:
This striped co-ord immediately went in my basket.
I own many pairs of Arket sandals flats and they're all so comfy.
Ecru jeans bring such a fresh look to an outfit.
The perfect summer set.
2. COS
If you're looking for relaxed yet polished pieces, then head over to COS. From oversize dresses to shorts sets, there's more than enough to choose from.
Shop COS:
White dresses are a summer staple.
There's something so elegant about a slightly longer denim short.
All our editors are loving bustier co-ords right now.
White skirts are still big news for summer.
3. H&M
From floaty dresses with pretty details to minimalist linen pieces, H&M covers all the bases this summer.
Shop H&M:
Tonal dressing is the key to making an outfit look more expensive.
An elevated take on a summer staple.
This pink linen shirt will go with so many other staples.
So easy to dress up or down.
4. & Other Stories
For many, & Other Stories is a go-to for floral frocks, which are obviously great, but I'm seriously rating the brand's pared-back retro pieces this season, like this cute floral midi dress.
Shop & Other Stories:
Wear it over swimwear or with a slip underneath.
For the beach and beyond.
Effortlessly cool.
The scallop detailing on this blouse is so pretty!
5. Marks and Spencer
Marks and Spencer is another must-see for timeless linen separates and ageless staples. I have my eye on the one-shoulder midi dress and the denim shorts, in particular.
Shop M&S:
M&S has an amazing dress range this season.
These also come in ecru and a lighter denim wash.
A waistcoat is a great alternative to a blazer in the warmer months.
So sleek.
6. Mango
Mango has really invested in wearable forever pieces this season, and I'm 100% here for it. Highlights include a 100% linen dress that could absolutely pass for designer and beautiful shirting that will take you from the beach this summer to your desk in autumn as well.
Shop Mango:
Doesn't this look way more expensive?
Don't underestimated the versatility of a stripe shirt.
Thong mules have such a '90s feel to them.
You'll be able to fit everything in this tote.
7. Anthropolgie
Anthropologie upholds its reputation for delivering versatile, cool basics, and I'm especially loving their dress selection this season.
Shop Anthropolgie:
Drop-waists are making a comeback for 2024.
This editor-approved bag is finally back in stock.
How chic is this colour?
Florals in summer is always a good idea.
8. Nobody's Child
I keep seeing so many Nobody's Child dresses on celebs and influencers right now, from Rochelle Humes to Holly Willoughby. When I browsed its new-in pieces, I could totally see why—these are beautiful, affordable pieces you'll turn to again and again.
Shop Nobody's Child:
Simple yet so elegant.
Wear these with the matching waistcoat.
Gingham is such a timeless print, and I love it in this smock style for summer.
This has such a retro feel to it.
9. John Lewis
John Lewis is a treasure trove of timeless summer pieces from a range of well-known and newer, more independent brands this summer. Albaray's wearable collection is a particular favourite.
Shop John Lewis:
So classy.
Jumpsuits are an easy thrown-on for when you want to look put together.
We love textured swimwear at Who What Wear.
I love the colour of these linen trousers.
10. Whistles
I'm obsessed with Whistles' elevated pieces, from chic sandals to wear-everyday trousers, which are perfect for those of us who aren't big dress fans. Just add chunky sandals and gold jewellery. So chic.
Shop Whistles:
I live in bandeau tops during summer.
These look so stylish with the matching blazer.
Perfect for everyday.
Such a polished take on the denim jacket.
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