If you’ve been lucky enough to book a holiday over the summer and would like to treat yourself to a few new summer bits, look to River Island’s new-season collection. It’s full of holiday gems in 100% cottons and linens and there are even sleek real-leather handbags (exciting newness for RI!). Every year I look forward to browsing all the sequins and feathers in RI’s Christmas party drops, but it’s their summer collection where I know I’ll find the most expensive-looking pieces.
After the rainy spring we’ve had so far, it feels like everyone’s desperate to go on holiday for some actual sunshine and the chance to switch out a rainy-day wardrobe for gorgeous holiday outfits. So, since versatile holiday outfits are our priority, I’ve had a look through everything on River Island to create an edit of the best summery new-in pieces, from linen co-ords and beach dresses to evening slip dresses.
Best of River Island new-in
This longline lacey top has festival outfit written all over it. Pair with some denim cut-off shorts and cowboy boots for all the Coachella vibes.
For summer holiday packing perfection turn to a linen co-ord like this blue set – the only thing missing is an azure sunny sky to match.
Or, for a bolder co-ord option, there’s this striped set in vibrant sunset shades, perfect for a trip to Ibiza.
For dressy beach club outfits, you can also rely on River Island and their statement swimwear. This striped bardot style is a particular stand out from the summer collection.
This soft midi dress is made from 20% linen and 80% viscose and is the perfect throw-on piece for wandering around the shops and long lazy lunches on holiday.
This 100% cotton midi dress is another neutral, versatile option in sizes 18 to 28.
I love the cut-out details of this cotton broderie dress, perfect for a day at a fancy beach club and drinks out afterwards.
This bold printed cotton co-ord is selling out fast and I understand why. The fabric and cut make this outfit super chic, especially if paired with some sleek sandals (hello Hermès and Chanel dupes) and gold jewellery.
I’m adding this denim midi skirt straight to my basket – it looks extra expensive thanks to its sturdy denim fabric, stitched details and side slits which will make it more wearable and easier to walk in.
I love broderie blouses for summer so this sleeveless style instantly caught my eye for a summery addition for my 70s style outfits. No, I’ve still not finished obsessing over the Daisy Jones And The Six styling.
River Island jeans are some of my favourite on the high street, with a range of short, regular and long leg length options. These high-waisted straight leg jeans come in multiple shades (and are also available in RI’s petite range). My top pick for summer would be in the ecru shade followed by these wide leg denim jeans for a 70s look.
I just know this shirred cotton bardot top would be one of those tops I’d reach for time and time again, because it’s the perfect smart/casual mix for wearing day to night, dressed up or down. On hols, I’d wear it with white jeans, lots of jewellery and a pair of espadrille wedges.
I’ve talked about how I love to travel in cargo trousers, so I’ll be adding these straight to my holiday wish list. The tie belt and neutral shade make them look smart, but I know they’ll tick all the boxes for comfort too.
If you’ve booked a city break, a jumpsuit is a chic option to wear for exploring the sights.
Add a pair of oversized sunnies and chic sandals and you have a glamorous outfit for a long holiday lunch sorted.
This 100% cotton gingham dress is a dress for more casual days, when you’re after something that’s pretty, but lightweight and comfortable. Just pair with sandals and an oversized straw sun hat.
Crochet beach dresses are some of the chicest cover-ups of the season, and with its subtle leg slit and cute scallop sleeves, this one from River Island new-in is a great length.
Up the glam in one of these beach jumpsuits which are perfect for a day poolside or at a beach club, available in sizes 18 to 28.
These cotton and linen mix embroidered shorts are also a super-cute option for wearing over bikinis.
Playsuits are another useful choice when you’re packing a holiday wardrobe, because they work for both dressing up and down. I love the detailed cotton embroidery on this broderie utility style.
This gingham playsuit is giving all the Chanel vibes.
Another versatile option for holiday packing will always be the slip dress. I love this khaki style with its unusual pleats at the neckline and hem.
This khaki twisted-waist dress would be another great option for wearing out to dinner and drinks.
Or there’s this satin cold-shoulder dress in a seriously luxurious navy shade.
The spring/summer catwalks showed us that sequins aren’t just for Christmas parties, they’re for summer too. So, if you’re keen to shimmer in those holiday sunsets make sure you take a look at River Island.
There’s also this stunning shimmering lilac dress and cut out printed maxi, both of which would be perfectly suited for destination wedding guest outfits.
For an alternative to dresses on holiday, I love these satin utility trousers which would look amazing with a simple vest top and strappy sandals for an evening out.
These raffia sandals have all the details – stitching, gold buckles, chunky tread – to make them look extra expensive, so they’re top of my summer shoe wish list.
I’d also pack these metallic clogs to wear on holiday because they’d be useful for dressing up in the day, as well as making an otherwise low-key glam look by night.
Finally, I had to shine a light on these 100% leather bags. Minimalist and oh-so-chic in design, these styles feel like an exciting departure for River Island’s handbags into a quieter luxury aesthetic.
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