It’s official, summer is happening… finally! But, don’t get too excited and dig out your trusty denim cut-offs just yet. While we might be navigating scorching hot highs in the UK right now, there’s always a chance of summer showers or chilly winds.
June presents the main 20ish-degree season. It’s the time of year when you can never quite decide if you need to bring a jacket (“but I’ll just end up carrying it!”) or swap out your trainers for sandals (“do you think I can get away with a three-month-old pedicure?”). You also have to factor in the flaky British summer that comes with unexpected downpours and treacherous winds, so your summer outfit ideas need to do the most.
But, never fear. I’ve done the work so you don’t have to and put together five summer-ish outfit ideas that’ll see you through all the 20+ degree days that the warmer season has to offer (and the potential showers). For when “it’s not too hot and not too cold – all you need is a light jacket!” (Sheryl Fraser, Rhode Island).
What should I wear for spring 2023?
The mid-weather minimalist
For the girl that has a neutral colour palette applied to all aspects of her life. From her insta-grid to her wardrobe, the shade spectrum sticks around the beige/cream/black area and she’s ok with it.
The token minimalist girl will always stick to boxy tailoring and slouchy fits. But for a change of pace why not swap your slouchy pants for a leather skirt, then perhaps wrap a knit around your shoulders too? Perfect for casual days café-hopping, a busy day in the office or accidentally having one-too-many pints at the pub, it’s the ultimate all-rounder for a summer outfit idea.
Meet me out west
I’m a sucker for a Western-themed look. Find me a way to incorporate blousy prairie shapes, distressed denim and cowboy boots into a look and I’m sold. It’s a trend that’s gained momentum in recent years, with Nashville-esque style becoming more and more popular thanks to TikTok.
The oversized leather jacket has become the must-have piece of the season. Mini skirts are having a moment too, so juxtapose yours with cowboy boots and a slogan T-shirt. Trust me, I know this outfit works – it’s not my first rodeo… (sorry).
Be a good sport
Sports-luxe, the aesthetic trend that found its feet in 2020 (for reasons that shall not be named), is still a firm favourite. Now that the weather is warmer, swap out your leggings or track pants for cycling shorts or a tennis skirt.
The key to this trend is bringing in elevated pieces to make sure you don’t look like you’re about to step onto Centre Court at Wimbledon. Layer a light, linen blazer over your sportswear of choice and luxe it up with accessories. This comfort-meets-chic trend is a guaranteed winner.
Give me the slip
A slip dress or skirt is a great piece to have in your wardrobe arsenal. This season, they come low-rise and floor-grazing. To build an adaptable look, why not add a cropped top and sweater vest, or find a knit to sling around your shoulders for if the temperature suddenly decides to plummet. Dad sneakers will keep this look feeling casual but are interchangeable with sandals.
Style up a sundress
It’s time for your sundresses to make their way to the forefront of your summer outfit ideas lineup. This year, tap into the Bella Hadid-esque #weirdgirlaesthetic by expertly mismatching pieces to create a jumbled-but-still-chic ensemble.
When weather is changeable, come prepared with layers, then you can ensure you’re ready for the heat (or lack of). Amp up the cool-factor by incorporating this year’s favourite: a motorcycle jacket. Seasoned Depop pros should turn to vintage, but if you’re less au fait with trawling the internet for the perfect piece, Urban Outfitters has a great alternative that will add a little extra attitude. For a cosy, daytime mood finish your outfit with a pair of fun trainers and a cool baseball cap.