The World's Best Shoppers Share What We Should Buy for Summer
If you read Who What Wear regularly, we’re pretty certain you love to shop. Some of us shop for fun, out of necessity, or as a hobby. And then there are shoppers so good at the task that they do it for a living. These women are always two steps ahead of the fashion curve, they’re savvy to every brand under the sun (from the big fashion houses to emerging designers), and they’re on top of all the latest seasonal trends before everyone else.
So naturally we’re inclined to pick their brains now and then for guidance on the trending items to buy every season. Step in our new World’s Best Shoppers series. From fashion buyers to stylists, every month we’ll highlight the best fashion picks recommended by the shopping leaders of the fashion industry. Today, the world’s best shoppers are sharing what’s on their wish list for the summer season ahead. Scroll below to shop their must-haves.
Elizabeth von der Goltz: Global Buying Director, Net-a-Porter
"We can expect to see chunky sandals everywhere this summer, and they’ve already made their way onto every It girl on Instagram. I’m particularly loving Chloe’s take on the trend with its sunset ombré chunky sole and barely there sandal wrap top; it’s the perfect blend of comfort and femininity.”
"Summer holidays are all about a fabulous straw tote. Loewe’s basket bags have been an instant hit since last summer. Their newer Slit tote can be rolled up and packed in your suitcase, making it the perfect travel companion. More importantly though, it can also fit all my beach essentials!”
"I cannot get enough of Isabel Marant’s exclusive new capsule for Net-a-Porter. The Eline embroidered dress is just perfect for sun-soaked getaways. A timeless white sundress is definitely a summer must-have.”
Caroline Maguire: Fashion Director, Shopbop
"I think this season is all about the ‘go bold or go home’ trend, which tie-dye plays into. It’s all about having fun with your look and embracing more youthful throwback trends.”
"I love that you can wear them with any outfit regardless of occasion or clothing trend. They bring an element of luxury to your look without being too formal.”
"We love our puka shells and are seeing the trend continue this year. Look to colored shells as the newest update, layered with various lengths and bold colors.”
Lisa Aiken: Fashion Director, Moda Operandi
"Rylan’s bags also have such an under-discovered cult-bag feel. The clean top handle, rectangular shape, and vintage feel makes it a timeless staple. I find when something is vintage, that piece has a much longer staying power since the style feels inherently classic.”
"This will be my multitasking floral dress. I plan on styling it up several ways. For a London-cool-girl spin, a tee shirt under or tied over it with boots. Or with a pair of contrast heels to mix it up for a less expected look.”
"Initially I was terrified of white denim. To conquer my fear, I learned it’s all about the right-cut wide-leg or straight jeans. A polished new way of wearing denim in warmer months; it feels very current and fresh.”
Jessica Raiter: Fashion Director, 11 Honoré
"Mara Hoffman’s Libby top looks great with everything—blue jeans, linen pants, a flowy skirt, or layered over a slip dress… just a few ways to incorporate it into your warm-weather wardrobe.”
"I’m always trying to create an hourglass silhouette, so this faux-wrap dress from Tanya Taylor is my go-to for a feminine and effortless summer workhorse.”
"These Derek Lam 10 Crosby pants are my idea of perfect—a flattering high waist and wide leg, feminine but with a ‘borrowed from the boys’ vibe, and can be worn with sneakers, sandals, or heels.”
Natalie Kingham: Fashion and Buying Director, Matchesfashion.com
"Anklets were something we saw a lot more on the runways for S/S 19 and provided the inspiration for us to work with a number of our brands, including Timeless Pearly, Aurelie Bidermann, and Anissa Kermiche on exclusive anklet collaborations. The charm styles from Alighieri are a standout for me and are a highlight accessory for the summer.”
"Sparrows Weave is a new brand for S/S 19, and I love their luxurious and thoughtful approach to the vacation handbag. The use of the wicker alongside the refined details and leather in the bags make them the ultimate travel accessory for the beach to the bar.”
Sherri McMullen: Boutique Owner & Buyer, McMullen
"I’ll be traveling to Portugal and the South of France this summer. I always love pieces that are comfortable, chic, and playful for the summer weather. These shoes are ideal for walking around town this summer in France. They aren’t sandals, but the open weave is great for the warm weather, plus the color is the right amount of pop to pair with neutrals.”
"It’s a crazy statement bag I will love carrying in the South of France. Jacquemus’s inspiration for the collection was the woman traveling and enjoying the French Riviera.”
"This Rejina Pyo dress is perfect for my trip to Portugal in May to celebrate a friend’s birthday. It’s not too hot, and nights can be cool, so the weight is perfect, and it has sleeves for a bit more coverage.”
Rebecca Brewer: Senior Buyer, FWRD.com
"Anything from Saint Laurent’s spring collection with bandana print—this iconic print is a cool classic that will never go out of style. It’s the perfect way to update your summer wardrobe, and it’s just a fun way to wear a print. I’ve already bought a few pieces.”
"I really think a Western-inspired jacket is a must-have because it goes with everything, you can dress it up or down, and you can throw it on over any outfit. I particularly love this leather version from R13; it’s a little oversize and has the perfect amount of fringe.”
"I’m lusting over anything from Amina Muaddi, my favorite new shoe brand. These showstoppers are sure to make you smile, and I guarantee you don’t already own them!”
Up next, I’m a shopping specialist—here’s what to add to your wardrobe this month.
Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.
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