It could just be me, but the older I get, the more I find myself drawn to the minimalistic side of life. Less is more, and all that. When it comes to my wardrobe, rather than experimenting with trends like I used to, these days, I'm investing in those classic pieces that I know I'll want to pull out year after year. Yes, it has a lot to do with wanting my closet to work a lot more sustainably, and buying fewer better items that last is the first step towards that. But a collection full of elevated yet understated capsule pieces is also, in my experience as a stylist, the easiest, low-effort way to always look chic.
This rings especially true in summer when loud prints and bright colours are ubiquitous. There's something particularly sophisticated about a pared-back monochrome look amongst a sea of florals. Not to mention it cuts down on a lot of packing for those summer holidays when everything goes together effortlessly. Of course, it all depends on what makes you feel most comfortable and confident, but if, like me, you've been starting to build a rotation of minimalistic summer outfits you can take from the beach to the park, you've come to the right place today.
Below, you'll find eight of the chicest summer outfits I've seen on Instagram lately that you can bet I'll be copy-and-pasting into my wardrobe for holidays and warm days in the UK alike. And because they're mostly made up of classics, I (and likely you) actually have a lot of the pieces already. The key is in the styling of these simple items, and the women below have seriously delivered on the inspiration front. This article is here for you to bookmark and return to whenever you're having a wobble when getting dressed or packing for your next trip. And I've also added shoppable links, in case you spot anything essential that's missing from your existing collection. Scroll down to see.
1. Shirt + Shorts Co-ord + Bucket Hat
Style Notes: You can't go wrong with a classic white button-up in summer. Add a matching pair of shorts and a raffia hat and you have yourself a low-effort yet chic outfit to wear all season.
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There's nothing more cooling than crisp whites.
Linen shorts are always a good idea for summer.
The kind of easy basic you'll wear on repeat.
Effortlessly elegant.
You can't go wrong with a pair of black sunglasses.
2. Linen Trousers + Printed Shirt + Sandals
Style Notes: Linen trousers are my summer wardrobe staple and when on holiday, I like to elevate them with a playful printed button-up and my favourite fisherman sandals.
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An influencer and editor favourite.
Hands up who lives in linen all summer?
I never get tired of fisherman sandals.
3. Tank Top + Bermuda Shorts + Flip-Flops
Style Notes: Long denim shorts are dominating summer 2024. The best way to let this trend shine? Keep the styling simple with a tank top and flip-flops.
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Arket is my go-to for high-quality basics.
IMO, these shorts are the perfect length.
The easiest slip-on-and-go sandals.
4. White Shirt + Slip Skirt
Style Notes: A satin slip skirt isn't just for your evening looks. Styling it with a casual linen shirt is an elegant way to dress up your daytime outfits as well.
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A white shirt might just be the most versatile piece in your wardrobe.
Definitive proof that black satin isn't just for evening wear.
Every good outfit starts with a good foundation.
There isn't an outfit that gold hoops can't improve.
5. White Mini Dress + Kitten Heels
Style Notes: Mini dresses are a minimalist's dream because they do all the hard work for you, allowing you to keep the rest of the look pared-back.
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So! Cute!
This bag has become an icon among the fashion set.
I can't believe that price.
6. Two-Tone Dress + Chunky Flip-Flops
Style Notes: A statement maxi dress is the easiest option to look instantly put-together in the heat. No effort required.
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This linen number will be so comfortable, even when the temperature isn't.
No need to save your evening bags for after dark.
Marks and Spencer's summer footwear always impresses us.
7. Shirt + Bikini + White Denim Shorts
Style Notes: White denim is a perfect choice if you're looking to freshen up your holiday outfits. Why not try pairing it with a neutral shirt for those more relaxed days on the beach?
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There's nothing chicer than an open, oversized shirt on the beach.
There's a reason that Hunza G swimwear is a cult favourite.
Sorry blue denim, summer calls for warm-weather whites.
8. Backless Black Dress + Raffia Bag
Style Notes: If you're looking for an easy evening option, a backless black dress is a great way to look classy without feeling too warm. Just add a simple raffia bag and minimalist sliders.
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This has "summer evening" written all over it.
How to make raffia evening-ready.
The perfect "barely-there" slide.
9. Asymmetric Tank + Striped Trousers + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: A tank top stays in my outfit rotations all year round but on my holidays, I opt for more elevated styles such as a one-shoulder design. Pairing them with a stripe trouser will make the outfit look elevated without trying too hard.
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An elevated take on the simple tank top.
Trousers for summer in the city or relaxing by the coast.
You'll never run out of outfits to wear these with.
This comes in no less than nine different colours, nbut my favourite is classic black.
10. Knit Dress + Straw Hat + Black Accessories
Style Notes: A knit cream dress is a timelessly elegant choice to take on your holidays. This year, I'll be taking inspiration from Sylvie and wearing my knit dress with chic straw hat and slingback flats.
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The epitome of easy elegance.
Yes, this really is just £20.
These easily look three times their price.
11. Boatneck Top + White Maxi + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: The white maxi skirt is arguably the most popular item amongst fashion people for 2024. Add a simple high neck tank and buckle ballet flats for an outfit that you can wear day or night.
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A fresh take on a staple.
I love this silhouette.
These ballet flats are constantly selling out, so act fast!
A stone clutch will always look chic when worn with black and white.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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