Welcome back to another episode of ‘How to Dress For a UK Summer’, where it’s too cool for stripping off and too humid for lots of layers. It’s been a confusing couple of months, hasn’t it? One day it’s a heatwave, the next it’s a downpour. Even in July, the weather remains unpredictable, so if you haven’t been fortunate enough to book a sunny getaway quite yet, let’s discuss the great British wardrobe.
Choosing to celebrate the fact that we still have a couple of summer months to go, we’re still mostly in a warm-weather mindset. It’s good to be optimistic, right? But depending on where in the United Kingdom you’re located, right now it’s probably somewhere between 16 and 23 degrees outside. So, not super balmy. With this in mind, it makes sense to put together a capsule of items that you can mix and match with ease, and tailor to changes in temperature. And as a bonus, the ones I have in mind will cut your getting ready time in half. If not by a third. That’s right, I’m confident that after many years of mis-judging the weather I’ve finally come up with the formula to an easy outfit that always looks chic (and can be assembled in less than ten minutes).
It’s likely you’ll already own many of the major components, and with some minor adjustments, you make the most out of a simple blazer, style up a pair of jeans, or settle into comfy linen. Sound good? Keep scrolling for 5 stylish outfit ideas that will make your mornings a lot less stressful. Check them out now, and thank me later.
Style Notes: Ah, the blazer. The crowd pleasing, all-year-rounder that we wear with everything from evening dresses to denim. It might be intended for wearing as part of a sharp suit with tailored trousers, but there’s no quicker way to dress up an outfit than by adding a blazer. A case in point? A simple tee and a denim skirt. From desk to dinner in just one swift move.
The stand-out piece from COS Atelier’s runway show.
Why not try an ecru tee instead of white? The warm undertone pairs perfectly with gold jewellery.
Everyone is wearing long denim skirts right now, but this is one of the best on the high-street.
This bag comes in eight different colours, but there’s something so classic about the chocolate brown.
I’ve never seen a mule I didn’t love.
Style Notes: Nothing says summer quite like a white dress and sandals, and a dress is the easiest instant outfit if you’re getting ready in a hurry. Look for strong silhouettes like puff sleeves, full skirts or shirred waists to give a simple dress the “wow” factor and add beach-ready accessories like slip-on sandals and raffia basket bags to bring the holiday vibe to the city.
Just. So. Beautiful.
The classic straw basket bag, but better.
The perfect finishing touch.
If I could live in these, I most definitely would.
Style Notes: Looking for an easy weekend look perfect for running errands? I’ve got you. Size up from your regular shirt size and wear it loosely tucked into straight-leg jeans with the shoe of 2022–the Birkenstock Boston clog. It’s just been restocked for 2023, but the mole colourway has already flown off the shelves, an indication of just how popular this comfy shoe is (and for good reason).
“Relaxed” fit by name, relaxed outfit by nature.
Everyone’s talking about Citizens of Humanity jeans right now, and these are another great option.
Chic, sleek, and understated.
Act fast to get these in tan suede.
Style Notes: To whoever invented wearing waistcoats like casual tops, we salute you. Although it takes 5 minutes to throw one on with the co-ordinating trousers, the final look is so polished that it’ll look like you spent all day getting ready. For evening this outfit would be great with a strappy sandal, but if you’re rolling out of bed and into the first meeting of the day, add a pair of trainers for effortless elegance. This is an outfit pairing that will never let you down.
Wear as a full suit, or swap out the trousers for your favourite pair of jeans.
I just love the subtle pinstripe.
How to do beach bags in the city.
Bottega Veneta makes more than just beautiful handbags.
If you were to ask me what pair of shoes everyone needs to own, I’d say, easy–a really great pair of white trainers.
Style Notes: A tank top is the ultimate basic, but it’s easy to dress up with a flowy skirt and elevated accessories. Choose lightweight fabrics while the warm climes continue, and stick to a relatively neutral palette to maximise the wear you get out of this combination. Come autumn, simply toss a jumper on top and swap the sandals for sneakers. Easy peasy.
This two-tone version feels fresh.
Simple hoops will serve you everyday.
There’s also a matching waistcoat, BTW.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
