Summer is officially here. It’s finally time to ditch the woollen jumpers that you were keeping to hand “just in case”, and allow airy linen dresses and wear-everywhere sandals to become the focal points in your wardrobe.
If you’re looking to boost your summer outfits with a few new additions, you don’t need to spend a fortune. The great British high street has come up trumps for 2024 with a warm-weather offering that is, across the board, the best we’ve seen in years. Both beloved UK brands and chic European labels are currently stocking stand-out holiday styles, as well as everyday winners to give your look a fresh boost while, crucially, keeping you cool in the heat.
Marks & Spencer has a hero pair of raffia sandals for less than £30 – reduced in the end of season sale, which has coincidentally started to coincide with this particularly timely turn in the weather. John Lewis is, essentially, offering two-for-one on hats, with its reversible gingham and ecru cotton bucket style (£25). There are beautifully detailed dresses for under £200.
It was highly important, says Queralt Ferrer, director of design at John Lewis, to offer “quality fabrics and value for money” on the high street this year. “This season, our collections are all about refreshed energy – creating timeless, stylish and versatile pieces that are made to last in our customers’ wardrobes,” she says.
There are bargains to be found all over – and we’ve done the hard work of trawling the shops for you. These are the high street pieces worth adding to your shopping list.
Dresses that look good on everyone
A great sundress is the linchpin of your summer wardrobe. Midi lengths are universally flattering, not to mention versatile; they’ll go with all of your summer sandals flat or heeled. Swipe or click to see all the options.
T-shirts to flatter any figure
When shopping for T-shirts consider the neckline. A scoop or gentle V-neck will suit most shoulder and bust-lines. A crew-neck collar that shows a little clavicle is more elongating than one that sits high. Swipe to see all the options.
Skirts you can dress up or down
A slinky slip skirt can just as easily be worn with flat sandals and a T-shirt, as it can with spaghetti-strap heels and a cocktail. Or for something with more waft, a midi in a statement print will amp up cotton blouses and evening tops alike. Swipe to see all the options.
Sandals you can walk in all day
Sandals with a footbed sole or added comfort cushioning will take you from morning sightseeing tours to evening beach stroll. Thick straps will keep sandals from flapping off and are less likely to pinch. Swipe to see all the options.
Trousers you can wear on a hot day
Keep cool in relaxed silhouettes and lightweight fabrics. For smarter occasions a wide-legged linen trouser looks polished with a shirt and pumps. Cropped cotton is perfect for easy breezy weekends and holidays. Swipe to see all the options.
Shorts which actually look chic
Whether going tailored or casual, shorts that sit high on the waist and have an A-line shape will create a chic silhouette. Swipe to see all the options.
Accessories which will pep up any outfit
Make summer accessories both outfit-enhancing and practical by going for eye-catching prints and colours in timeless shapes and sun-ready fabrics. Swipe to see all the options.
Knits you can wear with a dress
On those less than balmy days and cooler summer nights, a lightweight knit in a summery shade can be slipped over dresses for extra warmth. Swipe to see all the options.
