As one of the OG influencers (who remembers her first YouTube handle, ViviannaDoesMakeup?), chances are you already know, and follow, Anna Newton of The Anna Edit. An online content creator and author of An Edited Life as well as the An Edited Life newsletter, she is known for her effortlessly chic and minimalist style as well as her impressive capsule-wardrobing skills, appreciation for pre-loved fashion, and for her beauty expertise. She is committed to investing in classic, timeless pieces and regularly has the entire Who What Wear UK team talking about (and shopping!) her daily looks and online edits. So, who better than Anna to share her ultimate summer capsule wardrobe, comprising 10 classic pieces styled five ways. Anna, the floor is yours…
If you’re anything like me and autumn dressing is your *jam*, then you can feel a little lost style-wise during the warmer months. As someone whose happy place is jeans, a jumper and a pair of chunky boots, my summer wardrobe can end up a mish-mash of trend-pieces, dresses I never wear and ultimately things that I just don’t feel comfortable in. However, over the past two years I’ve made it my mission to learn to enjoy hot weather dressing. It’s a chance to crack out linen, co-ords and leave the house without a jacket. That only happens for like two months of the year, so let’s make the most of it! Now I’m excited to get dressed again and doesn’t that just feel fab? Here are 10 pieces that have helped me fall back in love that I’ve been reaching for non-stop so far this summer…
When it comes to vest tops, I’ve tried them all and yet this is the style that I always come back to. Arket’s tops wash so well and don’t lose their shape. The cut out on the arm is just the right amount of flattering and I like the weight of the fabric too. Cosy without being stifling!
These trousers are double-lined, which helps give a bit of weight to them and I feel makes them look a little more fitted and formal than others I own. Perfect for meetings or heading into the office with a simple tank or matching shirt.
I’ve never tried a comfier sandal, especially straight off the bat. The moulded wide sole provides some support, but the simplistic straps have that dainty look. Chunky enough for when that trend rolls round again, but parred back enough for this year’s barely-there look.
If you’ve always been a raffia bag person, I’d suggest looking for a woven leather bag for your next purchase. Ultimately it’s going to last longer, but still gives that textured summer bag feel. Plus, extra points for being easy to store and travel with too.
I’ve had these shirts in my wardrobe for years and they are a summer staple for me. I have the black, beige and the white. I throw it on with a pair of denim shorts, a simple sandal, woven tote and I’m out the door.
I feel like I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect denim shorts for forever and I finally found them. Nipped in at the waist, but wide on the thigh, these are exactly what I was looking for. They are made from a slightly softer denim than usual too, so are super comfortable to wear on boiling days.
I’ve realised that slip dresses are just not for me. Instead I’m a mini dress girl and this is the best I’ve found. Spaghetti straps give it a 90’s vibe, and the relaxed shape means that it’s a great one to pull out for heatwave days.
Did I treat myself to the matching set of this?! Yes, yes I did. And although the wide leg knitted trousers are a great addition to my wardrobe, it’s the waistcoat that I’m getting more wear out of right now. Camel is such a good addition if you too are a lover of the good ol’ neutral.
I’m in love with this skirt. The bias cut is super slinky and the slight sheen on the fabric makes it look luxe and such a nice option for an evening date. I’m here for the practicalities of a maxi skirt too aka the ankle-only shave—we’ve all done it!).
I found this preloved on Vinted and I’ve enjoyed adding it to outfits to shift up the silhouettes I usually go for. It’s helped to get me out of my t-shirt/shirt style rut and gives some volume to things. I love it with something quieter on the bottom half, like a simple slip skirt.
Next Up: Flat Shoes, Basket Bags, Pretty Dresses: What Luxury Will Look Like This Summer