Summer Occasions with Gayle Rinkoff

Fashion stylist Gayle Rinkoff is trusted by everyone from celebrities and TV personalities, to her personal clients who appreciate her innate understanding of women, and how to dress for any shape.

We were fortunate enough to spend a day at the beautiful The Grand Hotel in Brighton with Gayle, and here, she shares her top picks for any summer occasion from La Redoute .

 

Summer should be all about fun, and this year getting out and seeing friends and family is more precious than ever before. Here, I show you how to look fabulous and feel wonderful for any occasion, from a day at the races to a music festival (heaven for me) or a summer wedding. 

It’s a common misconception that an occasion always means a dress. I disagree – there is nothing more stylish than a well-cut pair of trousers, think of Katherine Hepburn and her innate sense of style. I have chosen this beautiful wide-leg style, with a high waist they need a neatly fitted top so I have paired them with a gorgeous striped cotton shirt to keep the silhouette elegant and feminine. I love this outfit so much and would wear it to race day, regatta, and to a summer soiree.

 

 

I’ve got a “special” birthday this year and plan to celebrate in style! This flowing dress from La Redoute is ideal – comfortable enough to take me from day to evening, and smart enough to look the part. It will work beautifully on a warm day, with its delicate shoestring straps and voile fabric, and I’ve paired it with an on-trend striped sweater for cooler days. Don’t be afraid to mix stripes, it adds a touch of fun and individuality to your look. 

 

 

 

 

With weddings firmly back on the agenda, you might find more than one invitation landing on your doormat! Rather than worry too much about re-wearing the same outfit, buying separates means you can mix and match and give each piece several wears over the season. Here, I’ve picked the most gorgeous swishy satin skirt which works beautifully worn with delicate pointelle knitwear here but would also work with a linen blazer and top. This lovely cardigan has sadly sold out, but I’ve found you an alternative below.

 

I’ve also splashed out on this tweed bag from Vanessa Bruno. It’s expensive but has so many colours, is a great shape and will work for years to come. La Redoute has a range of designer options to complement its own brand, and it’s worth exploring the site for gems like this. I’ve also picked a fun pair of flat animal print sandals, but would also dress the skirt up with heels to change the look up. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oh, how much do I love this dress? The detail! If I told you it has ruffles, tiers, braided trims and a floaty sleeve, it sounds too much for one piece but honestly, this one, in crisp 100% organic cotton, is to die for! 

It also comes in a chic navy, but here, I’ve chosen this little number in white as it would be perfect for cocktails at the beach or a wedding dress for a summer bride. In a charming mini length, I’ve kept it clean with simple accessories so that the focus is firmly on this stunning frock.

 

 

Country wedding  

 

Another dreamy dress! This one has a demure frilled v neck, but it’s a party at the back with a seriously sensuous open tie back. In a linen mix, this is a cool and breezy style perfect for summer. I adore the little floral print on this feminine number and would wear it casually to the beach with flat sandals or dress it up with strappy heels for an occasion.

 

 

 

 

I’m lucky enough to be a festival girl this summer and I just can’t wait! One thing I’ve learnt is to keep my outfit flexible as you never know what the weather is going to do. Here, I’ve picked a midaxi dress in a striped print, this length is more practical than a maxi, and teamed with a classic stonewashed denim jacket, it’s a great choice for so many occasions. I like to be hands-free at festivals, so I’ve picked a cross over bag and I’m more than good to go!