Lisa Aiken is Net-a-Porter’s retail fashion director and the woman responsible for our extensive wish lists and dented wallets. She is something of an oracle for the Who What Wear team in the UK. We trust her every recommendation (and attend her seasonal trend presentations without fail); we look to her wardrobe choices and unwaveringly cool NAP edit to make our own moves; and now, she’s a regular columnist here on the site—hurrah! For this month, it’s all about the virtues of a few simple summer style improvements…
Summer wardrobe switch-up time has (finally) arrived, and having just returned from Sydney Fashion Week, I’ve already been thinking about the sartorial changes I’ll be making to my closet both now and during the hotter months to come. In April, I gave you the lowdown on the contemporary brands I consider to be worthy of stealth purchase status, but now I’m here to tell you how to style them.
SWITCH PLAIN DRESSES FOR SOMETHING PRINTED
Now is the time to invest in a printed dress—nothing says summer like florals or polka dots. Ganni is my go-to for versatile summer dresses that are flattering and easy to wear. Pair yours with sandals or slides for running around the city.
Shop my pick:
REPLACE YOUR LEATHER CROSSBODY WITH A BASKET BAG
Last season, we couldn’t get enough of Muun’s basket bag. The trend was largely driven by contemporary brands, but now the likes of Loewe, Miu Miu and Prada have their very own iterations, and our customers can’t get enough of them. Whether it’s a Cult Gaia raffia tote, a Catzorange shoulder basket bag or sustainable brand Alienina, which uses all manner of materials including sailing rope to create its super-chic woven cotton bags, this is a trend to invest in. And whatever you do, don’t just keep it for holidays—use it throughout the summer months whether you’re in the city or abroad.
Shop my pick:
Related: The Affordable Designer Brands I'm Head-Over-Heels in Love With
SWAP TWEED JACKETS FOR LINEN ONES
I love the idea of moving out of heavy heritage tweeds and checks. You can still wear your vintage denim jeans and white T-shirt; simply swap tweed for summer linen.
Shop my pick:
REPLACE CLOSED-TOE SHOES WITH MULES AND BARELY-THERE SANDALS
I’m a massive fan of “naked” sandals, and By Far’s very ’90s square toe will look great paired with anything. I’ll be wearing them just like how I wore my mules last season (which are still just as valid)—with minimal effort and maximum effect.
Shop my pick:
Want more? Check out the rest of Lisa’s Who What Wear columns.