Is anything more summery than a white frock? Or, indeed, more adaptable? The fuller midi-length style lends itself to any number of tricks to change up the dynamic.
This version from Hush is yet another winner from the masstige brand and, like so many of their other key pieces, manages to convey classy, effortless, comfort whilst still being current and covetable. The Broderie Anglaise detail is surely the icing on the cake. Slip on a pair of sandals and sally forth. £89, hush-uk.com
A decent nude bra must be your starting point. With cup sizes running from A-H and a choice of four tonal variants, it’s no wonder that the Smoothing Non-Wired Plunge Bra is one of Figleaves’ top ten bestsellers. Other brands take note: this is what inclusivity looks like. £22, figleaves.com
Change up the look by adding a denim jacket. Please don’t think we’re disregarding classic blue denim which is most definitely a look to celebrate, but the red option is also compelling – and perhaps a little less expected. Extensive viewing of Nigella Lawson has cemented the belief that a denim jacket is possibly the most flattering item in any wardrobe when worn with a midi or maxi dress. It’s a practical layer with genuine style purpose, breaks up the expanse of fabric and – crucially – highlights the waist, or compensates for a lack thereof. This cherry-red Vero Moda iteration can be picked up for £25.99, zalando.com
We know we weren’t the only people that spent spring 2020 utterly transfixed by Normal People, the BBC’s acclaimed adaptation of Sally Rooney’s novel about the blossoming love between Marianne and Connell, but also the equally deepfelt love between the viewers and Connell’s jewellery choices. Connell’s chain became so popular it gained its very own Instagram account and suddenly all we wanted around our necks was a thick piece of molten metal. Orelia’s version takes the concept and makes it affordable fashion. £22, orelia.co.uk
The seam at the waist of this dress is crying out for a cracking chunky belt. By all means toughen it up with studded black leather, or make it sporty with neon, but summer 2020 fashion has revealed something of an obsession with natural fabrics – raffia, hessian, wood. This belt from Oliver Bonas captures the aesthetic perfectly. £22, oliverbonas.com
This summer’s sandal style can only be described as orthopaedic. The nana in us all can rejoice in that comfortable back strap, supportive cushioned sole and easy to adjust Velcro strappage. Sorry, what? This is a fashion piece? Ok, let’s exult, instead, in the chunky white sole, neon flashing and minimal metalware. Sporty Hiking Sandal £35, very.co.uk
