As far as seasons go, summer is our favourite. It’s a period where inhibitions are loose, spirits at an all time high and fashion is fabulous with a capital ‘F’.
With weather warming and restrictions easing, our social calendars have never been more full and you can bet that we will be taking every available opportunity to dress up (or down, you do you!).
Thankfully, the international runways at the four fashion capitals certainly delivered their fair share of outfit inspiration, street style and new-season must haves for the spell ahead.
Considering that we’ve (almost) worn nothing but leisurewear for the 18 months, it’s understandable if you have no idea what to wear anymore. Is it even possible to look put together this summer while surviving the Australian heat?
Given the grandiose plans this year (International travel! Family gatherings! Long days at the beach!) we’ve taken it upon ourselves to problem solve and offer six expert-approved staples for your perfect capsule wardrobe.
Below, we’ve rounded up your new go-tos in your fashion arsenal.
These styles are timeless, yet trendy, and will continue to serve you well season after season.
Prepare to be catapulted to coveted status.
An Oversized Button-up
An oversized button-up shirt will never go awry. Before there was the famed Blanca Benny, there was the original Breton striped shirt which, when stolen from your partner’s wardrobe, would evoke a certain “je ne sais quoi” that only French women possess.
Luxury Australian label Viktoria & Woods have channeled this concept of considered comfort in their Resort ‘22 collection, with oversized shirting prominent without.
This season, we’re putting a modern spin on this contemporary classic and substituting stripes for colour blocked button-ups that will take us straight from the workplace to the beach, perfect for those relaxed summer days.
Blanca Pascal Shirt Pink Yellow, $229 at Tuchuzy
Aere Organic Cotton Oversized Shirt, $90 at The Iconic
Hommegirls Striped Cotton-poplin Shirt, $265.92 at NET-A-PORTER
Textured Shorts
Terry toweling, rib knit and linen—oh my! This season, we’re gravitating towards the lightweight alternatives to culottes and chinos and opting for textural and luxurious cut-offs that showcase our enviable summer glow.
Premium leisurewear destination Venroy heavily featured loungey shorts in easy-to-wear silhouettes and vibrant pops of colour for a trouble-free, simple style.
Whether it be the 70s style we’ve all come to know and love or a more corporate take on bermuda pleats, this look will fall anything but short and put the fun in functional.
Hansen & Gretel Elle Short In Citrus Rib, $177.11 at Revolve
Katie Rib Boxer Short, $49 at NICO
Woven Terry Lounge Short, $120 at Venroy
The Upside Elle Jacquard Shorts, $130 at Farfetch
Statement Bags
Given that we tend to gravitate towards lighter shades in the summertime, a statement bag is the perfect way to elevate any ensemble while still being versatile enough to wear on almost every occasion.
The international runways of fashion weeks demonstrated that the reign of the microbags is over, with boho and messenger bags back in a big way. If, like us, you’re looking to purchase your bag of the season, then opt for a timeless maxi such as the LOEWE Basket or metallic woven tote.
This season we’re drawn to Brie Leon’s Spring/Summer offering, inspired by balmy nights on the Mediterranean. The 90s inspired palette and eminently cool designs are perfect to take dancing.
Brie Leon The Mini Chloe Bag, $139.00 at The Iconic
Bottega Veneta Jodie Mini Knotted Shearling Tote, $3,290 at NET-A-PORTER
GG Marmont Small Shoulder Bag, $2,380 at Gucci
Paco Rabanne Iconic 1969 Chain Bag, $659 at Matches Fashion
Saddle Bag Blue Dior Oblique Jacquard, $5,500 at Dior
Effortless Throw Overs
Make getting dressed in the morning a breeze with a simple, albeit sophisticated throw over that you can grab and go.
Whether it be a modest maxi dress or an elevated all-in-one ensemble, these fuss-free outfits are perfect for getting ready in a flash, whilst looking effortlessly put together without too much thought.
The best thing about throw overs is their versatility, so regardless of the time or place, you can easily dress them up and down for the occasion. Choose either a vibrant colour or a monochromatic style that you can zhoosh up with your favourite shoes and accessories.
Willa Cut Out Gown, $450 at SIR The Label
Selene Box Pleat Dress, $345 at Alemais
Mia Dress, $480 at Marle
Matching Sets
Similar to the the effortless throw over and not-so-basic button up, the matching set is prime for those summer days when you’re stumped as to what to wear.
Co-ords become our uniform in the hotter months, as we move towards more relaxed tailoring, warm and optimistic prints and cheerful joy-sparking silhouettes.
Quite nostalgic in their nature, matching sets bring out the fun of dressing up and convey a youthful disposition.
Crochet Knit Polo, $140 at Venroy
Crochet Knit Skirt, $150 at Venroy
Gala Blazer, $529 at St. Agni
Aude Trousers, $529 at St. Agni
Pyjama Check Set, $225 at Emma Mulholland On Holiday
Cocktail Colours
There is nothing more lush or akin to paradise than bright, bold and balmy hues that are reminiscent of summertime spritz.
This season, we’re swapping out our muted winter wardrobes and reaching for our favourite candy-coloured tones—cosmopolitan pink, minty mojito green, old fashion orange—that will have you reaching for a cocktail.
Whether it be a sexy, silky shirt or pretty Prêt-à-Porter, this colourway is truly a summer staple.
Anja Cut Out Dress, $390
Dalia Tiered Midi Dress, $629 at Rebecca Vallance
Jacinto Pleated Mini Dress, $595 at Aje
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