I can’t quite believe we’re halfway through the year already, even though I swear my brain feels like it’s only just waved goodbye to last Christmas. Anyway, here we are, falling head first into summer 2023, and so begins another season of searching for the perfect slouchy-yet-smart linen trousers and easy dresses to wear on repeat, and working out which sandal tribe we’ll be committing to for the coming months.
I’m going to try and be as disciplined as I can this season, focusing on what’s already in my wardrobe and reworking old favourites as well as thinking smartly about which new pieces can really elevate my regular rotation. As a starting point, I always find it helpful to scroll through the new-in sections, even if it’s just to get inspiration about what fresh colours or silhouettes to experiment with. And this summer’s drops do not disappoint.
If you do happen to be looking for easy, high-impact pieces to add to your summer wardrobe, you’ll be glad to hear you won’t have to take out another mortgage this year. From my research so far there are so many impressive, affordable buys on the high street right now, sure to stand the test of time.
For warm-weather wardrobe heroes that never get old, I would recommend exploring linen (Marks and Spencer, H&M and COS have the best selections right now) in loose-fitting silhouettes that will keep you cool and will look chic for years. Loose, throw-on dresses are also the gift that keeps on giving, as they tend to be flexible size-wise but also so easy to style (Arket has some very cool pieces in bright colours and classic neutrals this summer) depending on your vibe.
So whether you just want some new-season inspo or are looking for something to fill a gap in your wardrobe, scroll down to see and shop my feel-good summer high-street edit.
From fresh neutrals to pops of bright colours, Arket’s summer collection is full of easy, breezy pieces I know I’ll live in all season and beyond. My current crush? I just can’t stop thinking about that satin mini skirt.
If you’re looking for relaxed yet polished pieces, then head over to COS. From oversize dresses to shorts sets, there’s more than enough to choose from.
From floaty dresses with pretty details to minimalist linen pieces, H&M covers all the bases this summer.
For many, & Other Stories is a go-to for floral frocks, which are obviously great, but I’m seriously rating the brand’s pared-back retro pieces this season, like this cute floral midi dress.
Mango has really invested in wearable forever pieces this season, and I’m 100% here for it. Highlights include a 100% linen dress that could absolutely pass for designer and beautiful shirting that will take you from the beach this summer to your desk in autumn as well.
Warehouse upholds its reputation for delivering versatile, cool basics this season, but I am also enjoying the odd pop of colour, especially when it comes to wedding-guest appropriate dresses like these below.
I keep seeing so many Nobody’s Child dresses on celebs and influencers right now, from Rochelle Humes to Holly Willoughby. When I browsed its new-in pieces, I could totally see why—these are beautiful, affordable pieces you’ll turn to again and again.
Marks and Spencer is another must-see for timeless linen separates and ageless staples. I have my eye on the square neck dress and the denim midi skirt, in particular.
John Lewis is a treasure trove of timeless summer pieces from a range of well-known and newer, more independent brands this summer. Albaray’s wearable collection is a particular favourite.
I’m obsessed with Whistles’ elevated pieces, from statement dresses to these wear-everyday linen dungarees, which are perfect for those of us who aren’t big dress fans. Just add chunky sandals and gold jewellery. So chic.
Up Next, The Ageless Anti-Jeans Trend That’s All Over Zara, M&S and Net-a-Porter
