New Neutrals
Come rain or shine, the clever way to suss out your new summer look, is with a capsule wardrobe. Here, Stylist, Art Director and Editor of shopping platform Julia-Edits.com, Julia May Morgan edits her favourite pieces neutral clothes from the La Redoute Spring/Summer collection.
It’s simple: there’s one really easy way to look effortlessly stylish and achingly expensive… just wear neutrals. See a woman wearing white and we’re awash with the fantasy that everything’s, well, just perfect… and the best bit? Pulling this kind of wardrobe together doesn’t get any easier.
When they asked me to edit my favourite pieces from the latest collection, I knew ten pieces wouldn’t be enough. The trench, the trousers, the tote bag… you’ll want it all… and more. The key to getting it right? It’s always ‘less is more’. Think low key, think luxe and this summer’s going to be a breeze.
The Big Blazer
It’s all about being oversized. Forget fitted, today’s version needs to be big, boxy and almost like you stole it from your boyfriend. Sling a double-breasted neutral blazer it over front-pleat pants, an easy linen tee, or smart breton stripes
The Swishy Dress
Own this white broderie anglaise dress and you’re already living the dream. For one you’re wearing white, (tick) but in this most-wanted midi length all suspect areas are easily covered. Slip it on with simple slides and the biggest summer bag possible.
The Straw Boater
It doesn’t get more British than a boater. Maxi dress, or just a knitted tank tucked in your shorts, top things off with this summer’s most wanted accessory. A shiny straw canotier hat is a statement piece that compliments any outfit.
The Sleeveless Knitted Tee
With white jeans, with striped city shorts, with lazy joggers a deep-V tee always screams stylish, whichever way you’re wearing it; a knitted tank top is a nod to sophistication. Tuck it, belt it and slip your blazer on top. Suddenly you look ever so expensive - without even trying.
The Cool Combats
On those days where you really have nothing to wear, there’s no fall-backfallback like the perfect pair of combat trousers. White shirt, knitted tee or a racer vest… smart or casual, just add slides.
The Super Sweatshirt
No, this isn’t just any standard sweat. This is a stylish sweatshirt with seriously souped-up details - and that’s what makes it just so wantable. Style it up with city shorts, sling it over a midi skirt or layer it up with jeans. You couldn’t look more modern.
The Polka Print Scarf
Need a pop of print? After a smack of colour? A silky, square scarf is a stylist’s must have. Utterly versatile, knot it loosely around your neck and rev up your blazer, trench, or simple stripes in seconds.
The Timeless Trench Coat
Hands up who doesn’t own a trench? Thought not. But have you got the newest version? What makes this long trench coat one extra-special is the way it drapes. It looks expensive, it feels expensive and the details are to die for.
The Striped Shorts
No, you don’t always have to wear trousers… and if the sun does come out you’ll be reaching for these neutral mid-rise shorts almost every day. Think smart, (not scruffy) and work them with that big boyfriend blazer or your best blouse.
The Super-Sized Tote
Yes, this summer, size matters. You basically want the biggest straw bag you can find and this jute tote ticks every box. Add in the pom-pom factor and it’s pretty much perfect.
The Perfect Pendant
Sticking with less is more, play-down your jewellery with an understated pendant. Some days one is more than enough - minimal, modern and just made to wear with that swishy modest maxi dress.
The Slip-Me-On Slides
One good thing that has come out of lock-down is flats are fashionable and slides are smart again. So you can go to that meeting without your 8 inch heels. Slip them on with absolutely everything… your maxi, your front-pleat pants or just simply… with shorts. The faithful mule is a must have this summer.
Add a nest of neutrals into your capsule wardrobe and never be disappointed by the way they look. A neutral colour palette is a timeless hue that can look both classic and modern at the same time. Shop our New Neutrals collection here. See what other must-haves you need in your life right now over on Harriet Davey’s summer capsule blog.
