Warmer weather is just around the corner, and it’s time to look at a wardrobe refresh. Here, freelance fashion editor, stylist and writer Harriet Davey shows her favourite high summer pieces from the brand new collection at La Redoute.
High Summer Heroes
As a freelance fashion editor, I spent a lot of time browsing the latest collections, deciphering new trends and adding items to that all-important capsule wardrobe. With high summer on the horizon, La Redoute has curated an edit of wearable, timeless and ‘wow’ pieces that tick off all of this season’s key looks.
And I’m here to show you my favourite pieces (it was a tricky decision).
My edit is a small selection of amazing pieces that will create summer outfits to see you from brunch, to bar, and everything in between. See it as your new season checklist: from elevated basics – including the square neckline top that will be the base to any great outfit – to the dream midi dress. These are the fashion editor-approved picks that will be your cheat sheet to summer dressing. Because let’s face it, trying to get to grips with a busy diary once again is a challenge on its own!
1. The puff sleeve top
Supersized sleeves have proven they have staying power for yet another season, and rightly so when they look this good. This white button-down shirt comes with a universally flattering square neckline and it’s the perfect alternative to a classic white T-shirt or vest top. It also comes in a glossy green shade, FYI.
2. Grown-up gingham
The picnic blanket check is key for spring/summer 2021 and I’m a fan. Also ticking off this season’s monochrome trend – spotted on the runways at Chanel and Dolce & Gabbana – these gingham shorts are an all-round winner. Style with a billowy blouse and chunky wedge sandals and complete the look with a straw bag.
3. Throw-on-anytime midi dress
The humble midi dress is a style you can rely on 24/7. Citrus shades bring instant summer vibes and polka dots will never date so this orange midi dress is ticking all the right boxes. Add to this the universally flattering wrap detail, fluted sleeves and V-neck and it’s guaranteed to be a frock you’ll wear on heavy rotation this summer, and beyond.
4. Party pants
After months in comfy joggers, the chicer alternative is the elastic waist trouser. These floral wide leg trousers look just as good with heeled sandals and a strappy top as they would with a laidback tee and trainers combo. I love a style you can wear across all seasons so these are a firm favourite.
5. Beach-to-bar basket bag
No matter your summer plans, a straw bag will be your go-to accessory. Roomy enough to store everything from snacks to spare shoes, this raffia basket bag is making me want to book a staycation by the beach, pronto.
6. The short-sleeved shirt
Invest in a great shirt and you’ll love it for a lifetime. This timeless striped blouse is best worn oversized for a relaxed, laidback look. I’m imagining this short-sleeved beauty in peak summer with a bikini top, cream linen shorts and flatform sandals.
7. Strappy sundress
How pretty is this strappy sundress? The tiered style with its loose-fit silhouette and delicate ruffle detail just screams summer. Perfect for beating the heat while also staying chic, I will be wearing this with nothing but flip-flops and layered golden jewels.
8. The midi skirt
No matter what print, colour or shape you go for, the midi length skirt will be a summertime saviour. You can dress this green floral midaxi skirt up with a silky cami top and heeled mules for soirées and down for daytime with a loose-fit shirt and kicks.
9. Chunky sandals
Easy to pair with anything from a frothy mini dress to straight leg jeans, chunky slip-on sandals are a must-have. Birkenstocks will never fail to go with any outfit and these white beauties are as comfy as they are stylish.
10. The trusty trench
This lightweight, tonal trench coat is the cover-up all your summer outfits will thank you for. Easy to style with any look, a minimal, belted iteration can be worn across all seasons for years to come. Grab it in a size up for an oversized fit or keep it true to size if you’re petite and prefer a fitted silhouette.
Shop Harriet’s picks here and see more inspiration from our online edit by @theresa_gromski as she injects some outdoor space ideas onto our blog for you to enjoy your garden this season.
