Welcome back to another episode of “How to Dress for a UK Summer”, where it’s too cool for stripping off and too humid for lots of layers. It’s been a confusing couple of months, hasn’t it? One day it’s a heatwave, the next it’s a downpour. Even in September, the weather remains unpredictable, so if you haven’t been fortunate enough to book a sunny getaway quite yet and you want to make the most of the transition into autumn, let’s discuss the great British wardrobe.
We’re still mostly in a warm-weather mindset. It’s good to be optimistic, right? But depending on where in the United Kingdom you’re located, it’s probably somewhere between balmy and breezy right now, so with this in mind, it makes sense to put together a capsule of items that you can mix and match with ease, and tailor to temperature changes. And as a bonus, the ones I have in mind will cut your getting ready time in half, if not by a third. That’s right, I’m confident that after many years of mis-judging the weather, I’ve finally come up with the formula to an easy outfit that always looks chic (and can be assembled in less than 10 minutes).
It’s likely you’ll already own many of the major components here, and with some minor adjustments you can make the most out of a simple blazer, style up a pair of jeans, or settle into comfy linen. Sound good? Keep scrolling for five stylish outfit ideas that will make your mornings a lot less stressful. Check them out now, and thank me later.
1. BLAZER + DENIM SKIRT + SLINGBACKS
(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR UK)
Style Notes: Ah, the blazer. The crowd pleasing year-rounder that we wear with everything from evening dresses to denim. It might be intended as part of a sharp suit with tailored trousers, but there’s no quicker way to dress up an outfit than by adding a blazer. A case in point? A simple tee and a denim skirt. From desk to dinner in just one swift move.
SHOP THE OUTFIT:
Massimo Dutti
Twill Blazer with Buttons
A stand-out piece from Massimo Dutti’s latest drop.
Why not try an ecru tee instead of white? The warm undertone pairs perfectly with gold jewellery.
Reformation
Nila Long Denim Skirt
Everyone is wearing long denim skirts right now, but this is one of the best on the market.
& Other Stories
Braided Shoulder Bag
This comes in two different sizes, but there’s something so chic about a shoulder bag you can tuck under your arm.
Massimo Dutti
Heeled Slingback Shoes
I’ve never seen a slingback I didn’t love.
2. OVERSIZED SHIRT + JEANS + CLOGS
(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR UK)
Style Notes: Looking for an easy weekend look perfect for running errands? I’ve got you. Size up from your regular shirt size and wear it loosely tucked into straight-leg jeans with the shoe of 2022—the Birkenstock Boston clog. It’s just been restocked for 2023, but the mole colourway has already flown off the shelves—an indication of just how popular this comfy shoe is (and for good reason).
SHOP THE OUTFIT:
Relaxed fit by name, relaxed outfit by nature.
Citizens of Humanity
Devi Low-Rise Tapered-Leg Jeans
Aspinal of London
Hobo Crescent Bag
Chic, sleek and understated.
Birkenstock
Boston Buckled Suede Backless Loafers
Act fast to get these in tan suede.
3. BOUCLÉ JACKET + TANK TOP + CIGARETTE PANTS
(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR UK)
Style Notes: Nothing says autumn quite like tweed and trousers, and this dressed up jacket is the easiest instant outfit if you’re getting ready in a hurry. Look for luxe detailing like special buttons and shoulders pads to give a simple tank top the “wow” factor, and add straight-leg trousers and ballet flats to bring a Parisian vibe.
SHOP THE OUTFIT:
Mango
Pocket Tweed Jacket
The classic straight-leg, but better.
Le Monde Beryl
Leather Mary Jane Ballet Flats
If I could live in these, I most definitely would.
Me+Em
Ultimate Crew Neck Vest
The perfect layering basic.
4. WAISTCOAT + TAILORED TROUSERS + TRAINERS
(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR UK)
Style Notes: To whomever invented wearing waistcoats like casual tops, we salute you. Although it takes five minutes to throw one on with the co-ordinating trousers, the final look is so polished that it’ll look like you spent all day getting ready. For evening, this outfit would be great with strappy sandals, but if you’re rolling out of bed and into the first meeting of the day, add a pair of trainers for effortless elegance. This is an outfit that will never let you down.
SHOP THE OUTFIT:
COS
Belted Wool Waistcoat
Wear as a full suit or swap out the trousers for your favourite pair of jeans.
COS
Pleated Wide-Leg Trousers
I just love the slouchy silhouette.
Dragon Diffusion
Santa Croce Small Woven-Leather Basket Bag
How to do beach bags in the city.
Bottega Veneta Eyewear
Original Aviator-Style Gold-Tone Sunglasses
Bottega Veneta makes more than just beautiful handbags.
Veja
+ Net Sustain Campo Leather and Suede Sneakers
5. Cosy Knit + Midi Skirt + Knee-High Boots
(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR UK)
Style Notes: A tank top is the ultimate basic, but it’s easy to dress up with a flowy skirt and elevated accessories. Choose lightweight fabrics whilst the warm climes continue, and stick to a relatively neutral palette to maximise the wear you get out of this combination. Come autumn, simply toss a jumper on top and swap the sandals for sneakers. Easy peasy.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Charcoal grey feels so fresh.
Nobody’s Child
Black Mila Satin Slip Midi Skirt
A simple satin skirt will serve you every day.
Reformation
Remy Knee Boot
These boots come in no less than eight different colourways, BTW.
Charles & Keith
White Buzz Large Hobo Bag
Missoma
Wavy Ridge Gemelli Chunky Choker
Missoma does the best statement chains.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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