The Pre-Summer Edit

Everything I'm thinking about ahead of warmer climes

Happy Monday! Hope your week is off to a good start.

the vibes I’m channeling this summer

I hate to say it, but we’re slowly but surely entering that time of year when layers start to feel like overkill. Sigh. I’m still clinging on to spring, but summer is definitely looming. As someone who thrives in cooler weather, summer always feels like a bit of a styling obstacle. So, what is a non-summer girly to do? Well, for a start, I’ve begun to bookmark the kinds of pieces that are not only practical but chic. So, here are a few things I’d actually be excited to reach for when it’s 38 degrees and coats feel like a distant memory…

The Tee

Of course, it’s not summer without a trusty white tee. During summer, a simple basic like this can soon become the ultimate foundational layer for a whole host of outfits. This relaxed tee from COS ticks all the boxes — 100% organic cotton with a nice, relaxed fit.

The Dress

Yes, that’s right, I am a proponent of wearing black during summer. In white, a flowy dress feels carefree and beachy, but in black, it feels a little more moody, like “yeah, I’m breaking out the maxi dress but I still mean business”… or is that just in my head? Toteme’s cotton dress has a nicely defined waist and a minimalist cut — definitely going on my list.

The Blazer

If there’s a perfect time of year to wear a white blazer, it has to be summer. I can imagine a piece like this pairing beautifully with blue jeans and a suede tote bag. My wishlist version is this blazer from Max Mara, mainly for its blend of cotton and linen. But, I’ve got my eye on this very similar design from Mint Velvet. It looks to be a fairly slim fit, so I’d probably size up for more of a comfortable, roomy feel.

The Bag

Once reserved for ferrying suncream and paperbacks to and from the beach, the raffia bag has become a key part of summer looks. I’d never really been tempted to get one before now, but this year something has shifted and I’m seeing raffia bags in a whole new light. How great would it look alongside a leather trench coat or checked blazer? As much as I love The Row’s rendition, a worthy alternative is this giant raffia bag from COS.

The Shirt

I know we all love a linen shirt, but in spring/summer, I reach for my blue shirt on the regular and in my opinion, a blue shirt looks best when it’s made from cotton. You can’t beat that sharp look and crisp feel. I got this pinstriped shirt from Arket last year and it’s still my go-to, I love it. I found something very similar from Róhe here.

The Shoes

The flip-flop! It’s back and more chic than ever. These aren’t your usual surfer dude, poolside slip-ons; today’s flip-flop is made from nappa leather with a sleek, minimalist profile. I always check out Aeyde when it comes to summer footwear and this year, I might just invest in their leather flip flops…

The Shorts

Long shorts and a pair of high heels will always be one of my favourite summer looks. Whether they’re made from linen, cotton or leather, it’s a style I always come back to. Long shorts manage to toe the line between relaxed yet tailored in an effortlessly cool way. Love the pleats on these COS linen shorts.

The Jewellery

Summer strips things back and without all the usual layers, I find that outfits can feel a little bare. In summer, I like to add one strong piece of jewellery to anchor the look, something with a bit of weight or texture. Right now, I’m eyeing this silver cuff from Completedworks. Another way to add depth without layers is by using a belt or some statement sunglasses — just enough detail to make it feel considered, without needing to pile layers on.

The Skincare

I’ve tried a lot of SPFs over the years — greasy ones, eye-stingers, the dreaded white cast. The only one I keep coming back to is Bioré UV Aqua Rich SPF. It’s a water-gel formula that feels more like skincare than sunscreen — light, hydrating and no cast. It’s my go-to all summer!

Til next time,

Sophie xx

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