As a fashion editor and stylist, I spend the majority of my time looking at clothes. Whether it’s a sneak peek at a brand’s upcoming collection, writing up the most recent catwalk trends or searching for expensive-looking pieces on the high street. While it’s amazing to be able to do a show and tell of the latest looks, it’s dangerous. And by dangerous, I mean for my bank account. With so much newness, it’s easy to shop at all times. But although I used to be a bit of a shopping addict, my habits have changed, and I now fully think before I shop.
It sounds obvious, but impulse buys are so easy to make. And after years of having items with tags left on in my wardrobe, I now make a conscious effort to think about what I need and will get the wear out of. This doesn’t mean I don’t buy into trends, I do, but I just buy the ones I know I’ll wear. It’s so important to remember we don’t have to wear all the new trends each and every season. As part of my effort to not shop for the sake of it, I keep a handy list in my notes with links to everything I’ve seen that I want at the time. And if I’m still thinking about it weeks, or months, later and I feel like I’ll wear it often, I’ll buy it.
So, seeing as sharing is caring, here’s a look into my notes app on my phone with everything I truly love for summer 2023. From the Loewe bag with a cult following to the linen staples you’ll be greateful for once the temperatures rise, here’s my edit of the 31 best items to consider for this spring, summer, and beyond. Now, where did I put my passport…
Such an easy throw-on style, but with maximum payoff.
I’ve amassed quite the collection of waistcoats, but there’s something special about this full co-ord that has convinced me that another one won’t hurt.
Not to be late to the Loewe basket bag party, but, this new Paula’s Ibiza iteration has my name written all over it.
I love wearing bikini tops and trousers with an oversized shirt in summer, but when it comes to lounging by the pool, I’m most comfortable in a sophisticated one-piece.
Zara is having a particularly good run of shoes lately, and the latest sandal drop is everything I want to order. I wore Zara boots to death last winter so I’m ready for a summer switch.
To wear with camel wide-leg trousers, on repeat, all summer.
The perfect summer dress doesn’t come around often, but this ticks every box. Take tips from Laura Harrier’s casual Cannes look and wear with a cardigan around your shoulders and leather sandals.
Wear with a loosely tucked shirt and a leather sandal. Trés chic.
I can imagine wearing this so many times with shorts, skirts, jeans, tailored trousers..
Well-travelled readers may already know about Oz’ best kept secret, but for novice Brits, allow me to introduce you to Nere: luggage aficionados with an eye for design. If you’re going to travel, you might as well do it in style.
Yes, another Loewe bag. I went to see this IRL and I haven’t seen a bag I want to get this much in years.
At the risk of sounding linen obsessed, I *will* find a reason to wear these on repeat.
I haven’t stopped thinking about this since I first spotted it on the Boteh website. I’m quite convinced there’s no better relaxed dress to pull on and wear on repeat this summer.
SInce the tan and brown colourway dropped last year, I haven’t stopped Googling Matteau shirts. I’m happy to report there’s now navy on the roster, and it’s made to be worn with linen and sandals.
Having seen these smart shorts IRL, I can confirm that they feels as premium as they look.
Love them or hate them, The Row sandals have been a fashion staple for the last few years and show no signs of slowing down.
The perfect chains to stack up and layer when showing skin.
Such a cute swimsuit to repurpose and wear as a bodysuit out of the sea too.
This jacket looks so expensive. How would I style it? With a light, floral maxi dress and a pair of chunky leather sandals. Oh, and a basket bag for good measure.
All of our editors are obsessed with Dragon Diffusion’s elevated take on the basket bag.
Such a fun but classic shape to pair with other neutral tones. Brown also looks so good with hot pink and pastel blue.
Just so beautiful, no explanation required. The perfect way to add a little sparkle to a casual day look, or for a dressed-up evening.
There’s nothing not to love about this understated linen mini. Cool, cute, chic.
I’ve been looking for the perfect pair of trousers to wear with bikini tops and under slip dresses on holiday. I think I’ve just found them.
Yellow? Raffia? Slip on sandals? Well, these are simply summer in a shoe.
All of my favourite cotton shirts have been from With Nothing Underneath, so linen is next on my list. I’m a firm believer that there’s nothing more versatile than a white shirt, and this would be ideal for wearing open over your swimwear and tucked into khaki shorts.
Tell me you didn’t think these were designer.
A silk scarf in summer is one of my favourite accessories. In your hair, tied onto a basket bag or even round your neck with a neutral cami dress, it’s a winner.
Whistles Sunshine Stripe set is about to be hugely popular this season. From the colour to the fit, I really rate this dopamine-inducing print and easy outfit appeal.
A full-skirted, high-waisted, warm-weather dream.
I can’t help it, I’m head over heels for khaki right now, and this is such a good example of how universally flattering the shade can be.
Next Up, 6 “Dated” Summer Trends to Put On Hold, and 6 That Feel Fresh for 2023
