Key pieces that will help you stay cool, in every sense of the word.

Whether you’re taking a spontaneous vacation or updating your wardrobe for warmer days, these key pieces will have you looking and feeling fresh this sweet, sweet summer. 

Written by Alice Sholto-Douglas

As we emerge from another winter of curfews and isolation, ready to re-enter the swirl of summer, now is as good a time as any to get gutsy with your wardrobe choices. Stale sweatpants and tired hoodies are a thing of the past. This is your chance to emerge from your chrysalis, start fresh, and feel your best.

FOLLOWING THE PATTERN

 Dullness is an impossibility in a patterned suit. Let’s face it; you have to be brave to be brilliant, and wearing one of these is a surefire way to do just that. The perfect attire as you explore a bustling city or check out that trendy new bar, this suit enables you to be effortlessly dapper. Plus, it’s easy to pair with a few simple basics like black sneakers and white shirts. Your pattern of choice can be as minimal or as loud as you want it to be. Express yourself as you wish.

A TOUCH OF COLOUR

Who says pastels can’t be bold? Colourful summer suits are versatile and sophisticated, the cosmopolitan essential that won’t weigh you down even on the balmiest days. Dress it up with a slick pair of shoes or keep it casual by swapping out the shirt for a comfy tee, completing a tonally varied look. You can move seamlessly from the office to dinner or drinks, meaning less time hurriedly getting ready and more time relishing the warm evenings. The colour is yours to choose – soft lilac, saffron yellow, dusty blue – and the possibilities are endless with this unconventional must-have.

LIGHT AND LUXURIOUS

Even in the era of the floral shirt, less can still be more. After all, the paler the colour, the brighter it will shine in the summer sun. By donning suits of the lightest blues, greens, and yellows, you’re guaranteed flair and attention. And if you want to shake things up a little bit, you could opt for wearing each piece separately or throwing the jacket over one shoulder as you stroll down the promenade. Sunday brunch never looked so good.

ALL IN THE DETAILS

Smart-casual is probably the single most dreaded dress code, but don’t roll your eyes just yet. The line between formalwear and leisurewear isn’t as thin as it might seem, certainly not when first-rate fabrics and detailed textures are involved. Whether you’re packing or picnicking, maintaining your style cred is as easy and breezy as a day at the beach. Mix a ceremonial pair of pants with whatever shoes and shirt make you feel most relaxed, and you’ll feel at home wherever you go, knowing you look as good as you feel.

SHORT AND SWEET

When the wind is low and the heat is high, you want your clothes to help you feel free. Drawstring shorts and golf shirts will keep you comfortable and the two-piece ensemble will allow you to build your summer look further into the day. Go for pieces that highlight one another, pairing block colours with patterns, knits with weaves. The sharp presentation of a well coordinated outfit is undeniable. This is your way to stay oh-so-trendy while catching that tan.

There’s an outfit for every occasion, and every occasion deserves a good outfit. After all, if there’s anything we’ve learned from lockdown, it’s the value of showing up for ourselves so that we can relish every new day’s adventure. Have a joyous festive season with a side of summer à la mode.