Flex your fashion prowess with these tried and tested summer outfit formulas …
Earthy trousers and jazzy tops
A pair of do-it-all linen trousers in shades of white, or earthy shades of olive or brown, are the perfect base for summer’s going out tops (by going out, we mean heading to a wine bar, or dragging yourself from beach to cocktail hour). Choose an unlikely print such as paisley or an unexpected texture such as sequins. It’s this contrast between practical and frou-frou that makes for an interesting summer outfit.
Handkerchief tops and flip-flops
Handkerchief tops may be a key holiday dressing trend for 2026, but they’re a louche styling piece that fashion people rely upon year after year. Team yours with cut off jeans or cargo pants and add flip-flops that have some zhuzh (we love this red pair here).
Jeans, T-shirt and ballet flats
When it comes to summer dressing, fashion insiders know that simplicity is often best, especially when the right wardrobe staples are concerned. A good quality vest T-shirt (choose an off-white rather than a stark white; equally, navy is more flattering than black), a pair of straight or curved-leg jeans executed in ultra-soft denim and ballet flats (opt for a square -toe or mesh material to keep your look contemporary) make for a confident look.
White on white
White jeans are something fashion people rely on year round – there’s something about them that speaks to an insouciant, Gallic-inspired way of dressing. This summer, however, white utility trousers have cachet. These styles boast a drawstring waist, a cropped leg length and pockets aplenty. Style with a white button-down cotton-poplin shirt, white T-shirt or a long-sleeved, lightweight knit.
Linen dresses and statement shoes
When it comes to summer dresses, trends come and go, but a streamlined linen shift dress is forever. The style set adds some unexpected zing through a pair of shoes that feels statementy or ‘off’. Think: slip-on mules, clogs, loafers or square-toe animal print flats.
White blouse, denim and a basket bag
The appeal of an easy cotton blouse, teamed with denim shorts or jeans needs little explanation. Throw a woven bag in the mix and it’s the kind of instant summer injection that’ll make you feel beach-ready (even if you’re office-bound).
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READ MORE: The ‘It’ Skirt Trend of 2026? It’s Recycled From Last Year, Actually
