As this year is starting to prove, summer in the UK is drastically underrated—and I say that holding my hands up as someone who has spent the past two years travelling the world to get away from it. How wrong I was. Although, with barely-there air con, sweaty public transport and office dress codes that stretch from cool and casual to suited and sharp, it is tempting to stay within the comfort zone of the same three outfits on rotation. Which, when the internet is increasingly having fun with fashion, feels a shame to say the least.
So I bring you five summer-in-the-city outfits for inspiration. Some you can wear to work; some that will see you through the school run, the weekly shop and lunch with a friend; and some that will carry you into the evening. Depending on your workplace, they could do double or triple duty. Each offering something a little more exciting than your go-to linen trousers, vest top and flip flops. We only get a few weeks of sunshine, after all, so best make them count.
There are a few themes that run throughout, though. Accessories help build interest, whether that's a minimalist cord necklace or a statement earring. Strong flashes of colour can easily add personality. And a handful of focal pieces can make any wardrobe feel that bit more fun. Scroll on for our summer moodboard.
5 Summer-in-the-City Outfits to Recreate Now
Picnic Blanket Skirt + White Shirt
A statement skirt has a way of making many an outfit feel far more exciting, whether you pair it with a shirt, a trusty tee or a simple vest top. Statement earrings and a bold bag sway it towards evening; flip flops and a tote take it back to daytime. Consider it a key piece for easy, impactful outfit-building.
With Nothing Underneath is the shirt brand trusted by every Fashion Editor I know. This 100% cotton style is a true staple.
I own three pairs of Aeyde shoes and they're incredibly comfortable. This strappy sandal works just as well for evenings as it does during the day with jeans or trousers.
A red satin bag will become the focal piece of many an outfit, especially with the floral detailing on this Magda Butrym design.
These lightweight earrings will add a good dose of extra oomph to even casual looks.
I have scoured the internet and no skirt comes close to this Zara style in terms of design. It's already sold-out, so you'll have to turn your attention to resale sites to get your hands on it. Good luck!
White Dress + Straw Tote
If you're an eagle-eyed Marie Claire reader, you've probably spotted this Róhe white midi dress a fair few times in our articles—though, predictably, it's now sold out. So I've found an alternative that works just as well for the office as it does the weekend, especially when paired with statement sunglasses and a straw tote.
Thick-rimmed statement sunglasses instantly add a layer of cool to any outfit and Jimmy Fairly is the brand some of the best-dressed women turn to.
Even if you're in the centre of a city and far from the beach, a simple raffia bag will make you feel more like summer has truly arrived.
This silver cord sterling silver necklace will work just as well with a dress as it will swimwear, a simple tee or a more extravagantly printed fit.
This 100% cotton parachute dress is currently on sale with a hefty 65% discount, which isn't all too common for Proenza Schouler pieces.
Consider a pair of leather flip flops the cornerstone of any summer shoe collection. A.Emery is beloved by many a fashion fan for expert craftsmanship and small design twists on classic shapes.
Even if you aren't a big jewellery fan, a simple silver bangle stack will add an extra layer to any outfit.
Cargo Shorts + Crochet
Yes, a dress is one easy option for summer evenings in the city—but this cargo shorts look feels infinitely cooler. With its ties to 00s style and a trend clash of khaki and crochet, it's the contrast that keeps it unexpected yet eye-catching.
Earlier this year, I flagged the safari trend as a key one to note this summer. Cargo shorts are one core component.
A black strappy sandal is a timeless staple in any wardrobe and this pair is versatile enough to wear to work, at a bar or on the dancefloor. Especially considering Aquazzura are known for comfort.
There are many crochet tops currently on the market through this asymmetrical floral design from Mango is the most beautiful I've seen for a long while.
Louis Vuitton's Alma bag is one for those who shy away from monogram or logos. With deep-dyed cowhide leather, silver-tone hardware and microfibre lining, it's crafted just as expertly as the more recognisable Louis Vuitton styles.
Saint Laurent, Chloé, Chanel and Fendi are just a handful of the luxury sunglass brands we're loving and this oversized pair will elevate any outfit.
A cuff is simple enough to wear everyday while still adding interest. This rounded style goes an extra step.
Contrasting Polka Dot Shirt + Skirt
If you're a maximalist in search of a fun yet formal-feeling office outfit, consider clashing polka dot prints your minimal-effort, maximum-impact styling trick. And to make it even more strict-dress-code-friendly, swap the flip flops for a pointed-toe heeled mule.
This 100% silk wrap skirt will easily adapt to your changing body shape throughout the years while injecting a good dose of fun into any outfit.
While stripes may be the most obvious print pick for a shirt, polka dots are even more impactful. Especially when paired with a pussy-bow detail.
Jelly shoes are trending and this black flip flop has been spotted on a huge number of impeccably dressed women.
Polène has quickly risen up the ranks as a fashion fan favourite, becoming one of the best mid-luxury bag brands on the market. The Numéro Un Nano offers an elevated crossbody for both daytime and evening.
This rectangular face 23-carat gold-plated and stainless steel watch is effortlessly timeless. And with Swiss movement, you can rely on it to keep you on track each and every day.
This timeless gold-plated ring can easily be stacked or worn alone.
Khaki Shorts + Headscarf
Consider this longline short and blouse look an easy off-duty outfit for errand-running and weekends. Cool, casual and, most importantly, comfortable—though the suede loafers make it feel a touch more formal, perhaps even enough for more laid-back office environments. And the headscarf and bag charms go a long way to making it feel more personal.
If you aren't a fan of the micro mini shorts currently doing the rounds on social media, a longline style is an easy solution and you can even wear them to the office. More relaxed ones, of course. This organic cotton pair is sure to last a lifetime.
I own four pairs of Alohas shoes and the made-to-order designs are always incredibly well crafted. Plus, a loafer makes any outfit feel more formal.
This crisp linen-cotton blend blouse will become the backbone of many an outfit, seamlessly pairing with black, cream, red and khaki colours.
Earlier this year, I highlighted silk headscarves as a key accessory to note this season and I stand by that claim. This Miu Miu polka dot print will make any outfit feel more lively.
Toteme bags, much like the clothes, are simple and sleek. This suede tote can hold a water bottle, notebook, cards, pens and anything else—laptop aside—you may need during the day.
Cord necklaces shot to the top of the jewellery trend board last summer and it seems they're still holding strong. Endlessly versatile—I also use mine as a bag charm—they're one of the simplest ways to elevate any outfit.
