One of my favorite parts of my job is when I get to meet and interview luminaries in the fashion industry. When I was given the chance to get styled by the one and only Tan France—host of the Netflix series Queer Eye and Next in Fashion—this month, I was absolutely beside myself. France knows a thing or two about fashion. Throughout his 25-year fashion career, he’s worked as a fashion designer, created apparel brands, and co-hosted shows with the likes of Alexa Chung and Gigi Hadid, not to mention inspired and instilled confidence in so many on Queer Eye. He has been a partner with Express as lead stylist since 2019, leading Express style editors with ongoing style mentorship, personal coaching, and skill-building programs.
I met him at the Express at Beverly Center Los Angeles and was immediately taken aback by his warmth, positivity, and go-getter attitude. We bonded over our Northern England roots and our love for Samba sneakers, then he was off, excitedly pulling together outfits for me featuring the must-have styles he recommends trying this summer. Below, I’m highlighting four versatile and cool trends he suggests from Express. Keep scrolling to take a look at his picks and the looks he put together for me, then shop them for yourself.
“I love summer linen in every way possible, but I especially love the fabric as a structured piece. Tailored linen—think summer trousers [or] a waistcoat styled casually with unfussy jeans. Incorporate a blazer that offers structure but doesn’t feel too corporate. This easy set is perfect for dressing up or down.”
“I know we see lingerie-inspired pieces come back year after year, but I do love how much we saw it this year, in particular, at the likes of Miu Miu and Prada. Go for pieces that feel wearable and elevated—a camisole with lace, a slip dress, or a slip skirt. It’s an easy way to dress up without having to make an effort. Swap out your T-shirt for a cami and you’re good to go. What I like about lingerie pieces is you can wear it day or night and feel chic. If someone turned up to a Netflix red carpet with this cami and a heel, I’d be very happy! But you could also easily wear it to brunch.”
“I love hardware—it’s an easy way to incorporate on-trend elements to your outfit. A chain belt, in particular, paired with jeans or sleek pants feels reminiscent of a Chanel moment. We’ve seen so much hardware on the runways—from Jacquemus to Celine. It’s a great way to make a feminine outfit look edgy.”
“I’m always into knitwear regardless of the time of year. There is a way of doing chunky knits in summer that feels relevant and easy. I love a knit with a chic design detail, and this one with its low back is perfect for summer. Just add a pair of jeans for a model-off-duty vibe.”
A preppy-chic polo you can pair with practically everything this summer.
A year-round staple you won’t regret.
I personally own these, and they look so luxe.
I’ll be getting this ribbed tank in black and white.
Just add high-waisted jeans and strappy sandals.
It’s all about denim maxi skirts this season.
Contrast-trim tops are trending this summer.
A wardrobe essential.
I love this ’90s silhouette.
A striped button-down is always a good idea.
Strapless silhouettes are having a major moment in 2023.
