As a fashion editor and stylist, I spend the majority of my time looking at clothes. Whether it’s a sneak peek at a brand’s upcoming collection, writing up the most recent catwalk trends or searching for expensive-looking pieces on the high street. While it’s amazing to be able to do a show and tell of the latest looks, it’s dangerous. And by dangerous, I mean for my bank account. With so much newness, it’s easy to shop at all times. But although I used to be a bit of a shopping addict, my habits have changed, and I now fully think before I shop.
My most recent purchase: Zara’s striped top and maxi skirt co-ord.
Sounds obvious, but impulse buys are so easy to make. And after years of having items with tags left on in my wardrobe, I now make a conscious effort to think about what I need and will get the wear out of. This doesn’t mean I don’t buy into trends, I do, but I just buy the ones I know I’ll wear. It’s so important to remember we don’t have to wear all the new trends each and every season. As part of my effort to not shop for the sake of it, I keep a handy list in my notes with links to everything I’ve seen that I want at the time. And if I’m still thinking about it weeks, or months, later and I feel like I’ll wear it often, I’ll buy it.
So, seeing as sharing is caring, here’s a look into my notes app on my iPhone with everything I love for summer. From Free People’s waistcoat and short set and Whistles’ Marmite sandals to the Loewe bags I never stop thinking about. Here’s my edit of the 31 best items to consider for spring/summer, and beyond.
I’m yet to buy a waistcoat, but I think this is ‘the one’ with the matching shorts.
A brand that makes everything to order, I wore my Essên boots to death for winter so I’m ready for a summer switch.
I’m late to the Loewe basket bag party, however, this new Paula’s Ibiza iteration has my name written all over it.
Of course I’ll be wearing this zingy skirt with the matching top.
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To wear with camel wide-leg trousers, on repeat, all summer.
These are more on my lust list than wish list (unless wishes come true) but I can’t stop thinking about them. Sure, they’re a splurge, but if I look after them I can hand them down to my children, right?
Such an easy shirt to style with everything from ecru jeans to linen shorts.
Yes, another Loewe bag. I went to see this IRL and I haven’t seen a bag I want to get this much in years.
To wear as a three-piece with the matching skirt and jacket.
I will find somewhere to wear these.
Such an easy throw-on shape, AND, it has pockets!
One of my favourite swimwear designer, London-born brand Alexandra Miro never fails when it comes to sophisticated swim.
I can imagine wearing this so many times with super chunky sandals.
This long sleeved, waist-tie mini is so flattering. I can’t wait to wear it with my new Loewe basket bag and flatform sandals.
This season’s Marmite sandal. Love them or loathe them, the fisherman sandal is a staple this year and I’m a fan.
I’m also coming around to baggy jeans (which I never thought I would say again) and this more structured pair gets my vote.
It looks so expensive. How would I style it? Just like this with an oversized blazer but switch to more delicate strappy heels.
Such a fun but classic shape to pair with other neutral tones. Brown also looks so good with hot pink.
Usually I head to Reformation for dresses but these wide-leg trousers have caught my attention. I’ll be adding my Celine belt, a white T-shirt and heeled sandals or trainers.
I’ve been looking for the perfect pearl necklace to add to bikinis and slip dresses on holiday. This is it.
Having seen this dreamy floral blazer in store this week, I can confirm it feels as premium as it looks.
Never did I ever think I would wear a skort again, but here we are. I spotted this on Hannah Lewis and it’s such a good piece to style up or down throughout summer.
This also comes in lime green and I would happily wear either of them all summer long.
Such a cute top with the matching skirt or to try with jeans, shorts and wide-leg trousers.
The classic black racer dress has been reimagined with cool cutouts. Love, love, love.
Marni’s raffia bags keep springing up all over Instagram, and they’re the most joyful bags I’ve seen.
Warehouse’s crinkle sets are already popular this season, and I really rate this graphic print version. It’ll be so good over a bikini top, too.
Finally time to try out Agolde’s cult denim with a vest top and chunky flip flops.
A silk scarf in summer is one of my favourite accessories. In your hair, tied onto a basket bag or even round your neck with a neutral cami dress, it’s a winner.
The chic way to wear animal print, this soft shirt also has matching shorts.
My friend wore this recently and it looks amazing with tailored trousers. Obviously I’m going to copy her and wear this for my next night out.
