Weather curveballs aside, it is now really starting to feel like we’re entering the warmer season at full speed. Plus, the shops, pubs and eateries are back open! With that brings the opportunity to try out some new looks and debut some fresh pieces. Switching into a sandal, leaving the coat at home, carrying a basket bag again and most definitely wearing sunglasses on repeat, has never felt so good.

 

We’re all spending more time outdoors socialising again so honing in on versatile items which can be tweaked depending on the weather is a great move. That means a lot of clever layering. Items like slim cut vests under everything, fine knitwear on top and only leaving the house in open-toes if you’re absolutely certain it won’t snow! (Yes, we’ve seen snow and heatwaves this April here in the UK!)

Here are four really simple items to get on board with, which can easily take on the task of balmy lunchtime meets and chilly evening al fresco drinks. Pick your fave and let them blend seamlessly into your existing wardrobe with the knowledge you’re subtly ticking off some of spring/summer 2021’s low-key, hard-working trends.

Mix n Match Dad Suits

 

The outfit options are endless, wear them as a full set or split them up and weave in basics like denim and loungewear to get maximum wardrobe mileage. This is all about letting your two-piece become as relaxed as possible, without drowning you. So target slouchy suiting in fluid fabrics and don’t automatically go for your regular size… Sometimes sizing up in suiting is a great way to make a high street piece look way more expensive than it is.

I really love a wide leg cut but in reality it just doesn’t suit me unless I put them with heels. So I’ll switch a fave tailored 70s wide leg for something slightly tapered if I’m planning on wearing flats all day. Try things on and you’ll instantly get a feel whether it’s right for you. A more sporty, jogger on the bottom is a really nice way to make a dad suit unexpectedly comfy. Don’t automatically think you need to shop a full jacket and trousers suit either – mix and match is absolutely the contemporary way to go.

 

Straight Leg Jeans

 

The simplest denim cut for an easy, breezy summer look. There’s always those days during the spring/summer season when a failsafe jeans and tee combo is needed. A straight leg jean is a go-to directional, classic cut. Find a great-fitting high waist at Levis and Whistles. A mid-blue wash will always be something you reach for in the mornings time and time again, but a classic black is a great place to start if you’re new to a straight leg. I’m planning on picking up a couple of white straight legs this season too. I’ll be targeting off-whites, creams and ecru’s over clean white, for a easier-to-maintain, more flattering finish.

With length, it’s all about trying on multiple pairs to get the most flattering fit for your shape and height. I always lean towards something that’s cut on the ankle or can be cuffed up a little. Pair with the season’s punchy graphic t-shirts, pretty embroidered bohemian blouses and cutaway tops.

 

Graphic Trophy Tees

 

One of those trends that never really goes away. For spring/summer 21 graphic t-shirts are having a real moment again with the likes of Ganni, Loewe Paula’s Ibiza and Anine Bing cementing the humble tees place in the collectors hall of fame. Some of the runway tees are selling out the moment they touch down so if you find something you love, don’t hesitate. The move towards turning our lockdown loungewear into looks for stepping out in the big wide world again – mixed in with new season trend pieces – is also backing the boom of graphic tees again.

Here you just need to collect the graphic slogans, logos and emblems that appeal to you. I always will be drawn towards anything with punk and rock n roll undertones or with 70’s inspired retro cheer often by way of florals and botanicals.

 

Bold Chunky Sandals

Chunky grandad sandals were popular last summer and this summer, they’re  set to explode. Just take a look at the Chanel-inspired, quilted, two-strap grandad sandals out there in an abundance. Once you try them, you’ll fall hard and wear them with everything. Oh so comfy!

Speaking of comfy, nothing beats the lightweight, athleisure feels of a trekky sandal. My bandana-wrapped Arizona Love Trekky’s are worn on repeat with midi dresses and jeans. I’ve been trying to source the perfect tribute to take to Cornwall with me for beach days paddling and traversing the rocks. Enter New Look and H&M’s versions. Perfect for throwing in the beach bag so I can save my Arizona Love’s for best. I’m also holding out to find the perfect tribute to The Row’s Ginza toe-post chunky flipflops. Dreamy in their slick monochrome colour palette and minimalist design, I love everything about these sculptural shoes.

This way for a look at the dresses hitting my summer collection and you can find all of my edits at The Lucy Edit shop and more outfits over on liketoknow.it/thelucyedit too.