Perfect for your holiday wardrobe, this selection of independent resort brands speaks to Med girl summer …
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While we love picking up our summer staples in high street stores like Zara and Mango, to really get into holiday mode we turn to independent brands that focus solely on resort wear when packing our suitcases. With no office dress code to adhere to, or changeable weather conditions to worry about – we’re embracing the free spirited energy of the Mediterranean and adopting a laid back style. The internet has even coined a name for the aesthetic: Med girl summer. Think: Sicilian-inspired lemon prints, shell jewellery, raffia hats and bags, pool blue accessories and linen separates.
The Med girl summer aesthetic is one many of us are striving for. According to eBay, in the run up to summer searches for ‘beaded bracelet’ increased by over 35 per cent, while searches for ‘raffia hat’ increased by 335 per cent. The raffia explosion, which is in part thanks to Prada, is also reflected, with searches for ‘Prada raffia’ up by 118 per cent.
We have put together this selection of labels that have the dreamiest summer dresses, chicest espadrilles, and most vibrant prints to get you prepped for lounging in the sun and dining al fresco. Even if you don’t make it abroad this year, wearing a piece from one of these brands will make you feel as though you’re on holiday (sunshine not guaranteed!). Scroll our favourite Med girl summer brands below.
Ciao Lucia
While the name sounds Italian, Ciao Lucia was actually founded in Los Angeles by Lucy Akin in 2017. After spending the summer on the Amalfi coast, Akin was inspired to create a collection for anyone who dreams of endless summers. Ciao Lucia is one of those brands where you want every single item in the collection, in every colour. In addition to the breezy dresses, they also have a gorgeous selection of Brigitte Bardot-style Breton striped summer sweaters – perfect for preventing an evening chill against the sea breeze.
Rouje
If the south of France is more your vibe, Rouje’s new White collection has given its viral Gabin dress a makeover that takes it from Parisian city chic to Cote d’Azur ready. Founded by Jeanne Demas, Rouje is the go-to brand for recreating the “French Girl” aesthetic. Along with the white embroidered cotton dresses and tops, Rouje also has the ultimate line of accessories to complete any holiday outfit. The basket bags, low heels, and head scarves are ideal for styling with jeans to create an effortless summer outfit.
Castañer
Summer footwear can be a difficult one to get right. Flip flops are sometimes too casual and heels too dressy. Spanish brand Castañer has taken the traditional espadrille and created a collection of comfortable wedges and flats in an array of colours and fabrics that easily coordinate with any outfit. They are also a great option if you have a wedding abroad this summer, be it as a guest or bride. The ivory satin and ribbon wedges are a popular choice for those getting married in the sun.
Sir The Label
Sir, which stands for separates, intimates and ready-to-wear, is an Australian brand that manages to create pieces that work all year round. If you are looking for a holiday wardrobe that will also translate to your daily uniform once you have returned, the co-ords and two pieces seamlessly transition from vacation wear to elevated casual by simply swapping out your sandals for a leather loafer. The best thing about this brand is how comfortable its pieces are, with the Realisme set being our top pick for wearing on the plane.
St. Agni
This contemporary brand is for minimalist dressers, who like to keep their summer style chic and simple. The detail in the cut, fabrics, and finish of the St. Agni garments prevents them from looking boring and instead results in a collection of modern classics that can be worn for years. Its collection of jewellery also offers a slick alternative to the traditional summer accessories of bangles and beaded necklaces.
