But then the body changes actually started to happen, and I realised my initial thought process was a naïve one. I wrote more about this here, but let’s just say my plans to keep wearing all of my clothes as usual soon went out the window.

I found my groove though (after a few weeks of sweatpants-only), and packed away the pieces that don’t work for me right now, to give more space and focus to the pieces that do.

And I’ve noticed that there are certain brands I’m turning to again and again. They’re not “maternity” brands, but they tick all the boxes that my body needs and craves at this stage: comfort, adjustability, support — and styles that feel like “me”.

So, here are the non-maternity brands for every wardrobe category that I keep on returning to. We’ve got basics, everyday pieces that look and feel elevated, knitwear, outerwear, footwear and more. And if you’re looking for a similar but non-pregnancy-specific list of excellent brands, let me direct you this way.

Basics

Asket

Asket is a Swedish brand that has been refining a “permanent collection” since 2015. No bells, no whistles, just very good wardrobe essentials. During regular programming, I’m a fan of the jeans and sweatshirts, but for now, the classic button-up shirts (sized up one) are what I’m reaching for most. Everything’s made in Europe from natural fibres, and the supply chain is fully transparent. Prices from £35/$55/€40.

If Only If

It’s been a while since I’ve worn nighties regularly, but this brand saved me during the heat of summer. They’re made in small batches from cotton and silk, have a hint of nostalgia, and are beautifully packaged. There’s a pregnancy-friendly edit, and honestly, most of them are good enough to wear as a “regular” dress out and about, too. Each style goes up to size UK 24/EU 52/ US 20. Prices from £89/€119.

Rise & Fall

Rise & Fall is a London-based brand that’s turning luxury on its head. Each piece is made by the same manufacturers as luxury brands, but they cut out the middleman, so prices are much more accessible. I love the cashmere jumpers, but I have a feeling they’ll stretch with a bump. The cotton T-shirts (sized up one) and cashmere wrap have been getting a lot of use, though. Code ANGHARAD15 will give you 15% off. Prices from £35/$65.

Stripe & Stare

The only knickers I’m wearing. This is everyday underwear, pyjamas and camis at their best: comfortable, well-fitting, and striking the perfect balance between stylish and wearable. The fabric they use is TENCEL Micro x Modal. It’s made sustainably in Austria from beechwood trees and has been scientifically proven to be three times softer than cotton. ANGHARAD10 will give you 10% off. Prices from £18/$24/€24.

Elevated, everyday pieces

440me

My first introduction to this brand was through this yak wool cardigan, and it really put a shift in last winter and spring. Since then, I’ve added a couple of other pieces to my wardrobe, and this loose top* and swingy trench* have been great for pregnancy. Prices from £73/$98.

COS

Yes, this is a very big high street brand that probably needs no introduction. But I’ve had some pieces from COS for 10 years and counting, and I still believe it’s one of the best places for “smarter” everyday pieces, as well as wedding guest/occasion dresses. Not afraid to admit that I spent a recent heatwave wearing an old roomy playsuit from COS for three days on the bounce. For pregnancy, look for the loose, oversized pieces, rather than the structured ones, like this mini LBD or these elasticated barrel-leg trousers. Prices from £15/$25/€17 for clothing.

Massimo Dutti

Like COS, not everything at this high street brand is pregnancy-friendly, so it takes a bit of digging. But one of my most-worn “fancy” shirts this summer has been this one from Massimo Dutti, and I know I’ll get a lot of wear out of it later on. There are plenty of fancy-ish floaty dresses too, like this and this. Prices from £35 for clothing.

WNU

I feature With Nothing Underneath (or WNU) on The Jones Report a lot, and with good reason. The London-based brand took everything that’s good about men’s tailoring and created a collection of women’s shirts that are genuinely cut and made well. I always size up one for a looser fit, and that’s served me very well in pregnancy. The elasticated-waist boxer shorts (I’ve sized up one in pregnancy) and loose linen dresses have been a lifesaver in summer too. Code ANGHARAD10 will get you 10% off. Prices from £32/$55/€50.

Navygrey

This London-based brand made its name creating very good knitwear. The Oversize jumper* has a cult-like following, and I’m very lucky to have one in my wardrobe. It’s the perfect weight, colour and oversized fit. The brand also recently released a collection of shirts, including the Oversize*. It’s made from organic cotton and is properly oversized, so it’s been a cool, easy piece to wear over summer — I sized up one to accommodate my bump. Prices from £190.

RIXO

Again, not everything is pregnancy-friendly at RIXO, but if you’re looking for a dress that feels a little fancy and can be worn for day or night, I highly recommend the London-based brand’s cult-favourite Sandrine. It’s comfortable, I can wear a bra with it, and it suits every body shape and size going. I wear my usual size, and it fits me just as well now as it did pre-pregnancy. Prices from £25.

TWP

NYC-based TWP is known for its relaxed tailoring with references to unrestrictive menswear. For pregnancy, its shirts have been a lifesaver for me. The ‘Next Morning’ shirt I’m wearing here is oversized, made from superfine Italian cotton, and has a button just above the cuff to keep a single roll in place. It’s classic, but it’s very lightweight, so it’s been perfect on hot summer days. Prices from £305/$495 USD/€420

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Footwear

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But. The heat of summer has made way for some days that feel a little breezy. My duvet has begun to get a look-in (only with the coolest organic cotton, though). I’ve worn a jacket on occasion, and layers (however light) are starting to feel necessary.

Enter, one of my favourite outfit combinations: a dress over trousers.

We often talk about transitional dressing — that bit in between seasons — and this is one of those summer/autumn hybrids that always works well. But it doesn’t stop there: this combination works for winter, too, when you want to wear a dress but maybe aren’t a fan of tights (guilty).

But for now, ankles are covered, keeping the edge off, without the need to pack away summer dresses. And practicality aside, pairing a dress with trousers allows you to play with shapes and silhouettes, especially when styling loose clothing. Just take a look at how designers paired the two at the recent shows at Copenhagen Fashion Week…

Tips for wearing dresses over trousers:

• Choose a dress with a bit of looseness. This way you have space for the trousers underneath, rather than worrying about the waistband bunching up

• Think about the size of the dress vs. the size of the trousers. If the dress is very loose, it can work well over loose trousers. If it’s on the slimmer side, a slimmer pair of trousers would work best

• Dresses or long tunics with slits at the side help, as they won’t bunch up around the trousers. This one is a good example (ANGHARAD15 for 15% off)

• The length of the dress matters. A shorter dress will show more of the trousers, while a longer dress will show just a bit of ankle underneath

• Likewise, trouser length matters. If you want the trousers to show, think about whether you’ll actually be able to see them underneath the dress (i.e. if they’re cropped, will you be able to see the trousers under a long dress?)

• Contrasting colours in the dress and trousers make more of a statement, while the same/similar colours will create more of a subtle look

How I style it

I recently got this dress from Soeur*. It’s a dark brown organza with a standing collar, and an opening with a button fastening at the back. It would make a beautiful piece for autumn/winter weddings or occasions, but when I’m not going somewhere quite as fancy, I pair it with black trousers. In a slinky cupro, this pair feels “special” enough to wear with the delicate dress, and they’re slim enough that they don’t add any bulk.

I bought this Ganni dress in summer 2015 — I remember the date, because it was my first trip to Copenhagen for Fashion Week, and it was a real find in the outlet store, Ganni Postmodern. I’m so glad I’ve held onto it. It’s a staple every summer, and this year, the slightly loose and stretchy fabric has made it a saviour for my growing bump. But when I want to add something to it (and cover my ankles), on a pair of trousers comes — and like the outfit above, it’s a relatively slim-fitting pair that don’t add any bulk around the waist, which would cause the dress to bunch.

You can’t see in this image, but this dress has a deep scooped back (not great for bras, but hey, we’ve got NOOD for that) and makes for a great piece on its own (here’s a light blue dress with a similar shape and detailing). But on the occasions that don’t call for a mini dress? I love pairing it with these black twisted seam trousers. I find adding the trousers makes it more wearable day-to-day and, again, helps on those slightly cooler days.

This was a look from last winter — proof that a dress over trousers isn’t just for that summer-autumn period. This dress is quite long on me, so the inclusion of trousers isn’t totally obvious, especially as the colour is very similar. But it helped with the temperature (like I said, not a tights woman), and it added a tiny bit more shape that I felt was missing. Sometimes, those subtle tweaks can make all the difference.

This is another dress I’ve worn a lot this summer. It’s 100% linen in a deep russet colour, and it’s very easy to just chuck on and go. But, particularly in the evenings, I could do with another layer, and this dress is roomy enough that there’s space to slot a pair of slim black trousers on underneath. That extra bit of shape it brings to the outfit is a bonus.

This dress is a dress/kimono style from By Malene Birger from a couple of years ago. Pre-bump, I wore it tied all the way around, so it was more of a dress. It doesn’t quite wrap around fully in the same way it used to, but I am enjoying having more of an opening at the front and wearing trousers with it instead. The chocolate brown of the trousers adds a nice contrast to the natural linen, but you could wear it with similar colours for more of a tonal look instead.

I haven’t personally tried these, but for a similar style, there’s this, this and this on Etsy, and they all get good reviews.

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I’ve needed proper hot weather gear. Flip-flops for my swollen feet that won’t leave my arches screaming by the end of the day. Dresses I can wear out to dinner that don’t make me feel restricted or unbearably warm. Jewellery I can chuck on that looks as colourful as the sun-soaked sea. And airy pieces I can always rely on whenever the next (increasingly frequent) heatwave rolls around.

There are 10 pieces I added to my wardrobe this summer that do all that and more. Drum roll, please…

The shirt that never needs steaming

100% organic cotton seersucker: quite possibly the only fabric that doesn’t need to be steamed or ironed. It just comes out of the wash like that! I’ve been wearing this shirt as a cool, airy day-to-day piece, as a beach cover-up (it doesn’t moan at being rolled up and popped into a beach bag), and as a layer to throw over my sports bra as I head out to yoga. Summer shirt perfection.

The dress that’s comfy and fancy

Dark navy, thin pleats, and oh-so-roomy. This dress has put in a shift this summer, thanks to its comfortable fit (with plenty of space for a growing bump), plus its classic and feels-kind-of-fancy design. It also makes a great blank canvas for jewellery — I’m wearing it with gold here, but it works just as well with silver or a splash of colour. This dress is from a previous season, but for a similar style, see here.

The flip-flops that support my feet

My 36-year-old feet need a lot more support than the average flip-flop can provide. Gone are the days when I can wear a flat sole all day and not suffer the consequences — I need something that will look after those arches. I have my trusty leather pair from FitFlop, but I’d been looking for a more casual, thinner pair I could wear day-to-day, and these are the answer. These flip-flops have orthotic arch support without looking like they have orthotic arch support. The dream.

The dress that supported me through multiple heatwaves

I know I’ve mentioned heatwaves in almost every newsletter this summer, but this kind of heat is unprecedented in the UK. We may have one or two heatwaves most years, but this summer? They’ve been ongoing. Relentless. And no, I don’t mind sounding very British when I say it has been too hot. Anyway — this shift dress has been one piece I’ve pulled on a lot when the temperatures have risen. It’s not tight (I sized up one for pregnancy, but I recommend going for your usual size), it’s 100% linen so it’s nice and cool, and you can wear it anywhere and everywhere.

The necklace that makes everything feel summery

If there’s anything that feels like “summer” to me, it’s a good beaded necklace. Whenever I’ve wanted to make my outfit feel as sunshiney as the day outside, I’ve popped this green beaded necklace from Completedworks on. The beads are made from Chalcedony (yep, I had to Google that, too), which makes them smooth and ever-so-slightly see-through. It’s a summer outfit-maker in an instant. (Coming in close second: this cord bracelet*, which feels like a grown-up’s version of those grubby woven ones we all used to wear).

The top that works with my growing bump

I wrote about how hard I found pregnancy dressing a few weeks ago, and with an ever-changing body, the challenge continues. So, I’ve been leaning more and more on the pieces that do work — and this top is one of them. It’s 100% cotton denim (not too hot, but structured enough to hold its shape), and it has a boxy, cropped shape that makes it perfect for wearing with high-waisted trousers. The best bit? There’s loads of room. It worked just as well when I was barely showing, as it does now with a much more prominent bump. There aren’t many sizes of this top left, but this one has a very similar shape.

The casual shoes I can walk for miles in

I’m always on the lookout for shoes that are comfortable and look good. I found a very good pair that can withstand 20,000+ step days, but it’s always good to have a second pair to hand to switch things up a bit. So when wrote about how her KEEN shoes were her ultimate (non-ugly) commuter shoe, they immediately lodged in my brain. I finally bought a pair a few weeks ago, and my feet have thanked me ever since. They’re sturdy enough for going on proper walks or hikes, and have a contoured fit and removable foam insole. They’re also a good size if your feet are on the wider side.

The shirt that’s blissfully airy

Oversized, loose, a subtle patchwork print… this shirt has swiftly become a summer staple, not least because it is so light and airy. On hot days when I want to cover my arms (for sun protection or simply to have a break from short sleeves), it’s been a piece I’ve turned to again and again. Bonus points that it feels smart enough for dinners or (non-alcoholic) drinks out, too.

The dress with loads of volume

‘Relaxed’ and ‘voluminous’ are two adjectives I love to hear when it comes to a summer piece — and this dress has both of those in spades. It’s 100% cotton, has a structured top, and a full skirt that creates loads of shape. A really easy chuck-on-and-go piece, and always effective.

The sunscreen that isn’t sticky or oily

Ok, not something I added to my wardrobe this summer, but it has had an impact on my clothes as well as my skin. I was a bit dubious about the ‘dry touch’ claim of this SPF — I’ve tried many ‘matte’ sunscreens over the years to know it probably wouldn’t be 100% true. But I stand corrected. This is super lightweight and dries on the skin as soon as it goes on, plus it’s got antioxidant ingredients. It’s not often I’m immediately impressed with a product, but this one is up there. Even my husband — who has yet to find an SPF he likes applying in his 37 years — can’t stop talking about how good it is. Only downside is that it is pricey for a sunscreen (3 for 2 on Boots Soltan it is not).

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Any items marked with * have been gifted by brands. All thoughts, picks and reviews are my own.

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Now, in the depths of summer, and six months into my pregnancy, loose clothing has really come into its own. As well as the silhouettes loose clothing can create, it’s the practicality I’ve been leaning on most: airy pieces that don’t cling to the skin in hot weather, and plenty of room to accommodate a growing bump.

But the thing with loose clothing is that it can sometimes look a bit… meh. Shape can be compromised, leaving a sack in its place. Those of us under 5’7” can look a little swamped under the excess volume and length. And there are times when it just looks like we’ve raided our dads’ wardrobes… and not in a good way.

So, here are nine ways to make your loose clothing look interesting and considered. As we’re in summer, most of the below outfits are appropriate for warmer weather, but the tips can be applied to the rest of the seasons, too.

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Add a loose layer on top

I bought this COS dress just before summer, and I have worn it a lot. It’s sleeveless, dark navy, has thin pleats, and is wonderfully loose. It’s great on its own, but sometimes I want to mix it up a bit and add some more shape. An easy way to do that? Add another loose layer on top.

It may sound contradictory (loose with loose?), but that way you don’t lose what makes that hero piece so good to begin with. In the heat, you’re not adding anything that’s too bulky, and in pregnancy/with bloating, you’re not compromising comfort, either.

To make it work, go for different colours and textures — in this case, a sage green organic cotton/linen trench against the pleated navy dress. It provides differentiation, while also being complementary.

Let accessories do the work

I’ve worn this jumpsuit many times this summer — it’s roomy, and it’s easy. But on its own, it sometimes feels like something is missing. That’s where accessories come in: gold bangles that add a little zhush, and a silk scarf fashioned into a bandana. I’ve also paired this jumpsuit with a long silver necklace and called it a day.

It can be any accessory; it’s not just limited to the ones I’m showing here. A bag with colour, shape or texture (or all three) can make a big difference to the loose pieces that you feel need something, as can a silk scarf tied around the neck, or a cashmere wrap pinned in place with a brooch.

Pair loose trousers with cropped or boxy tops

That ‘swamped’ feeling I mentioned earlier? Often, that comes down to proportion. Both pieces of clothing I’m wearing in this image (the shirt and the trousers) are loose-fitting, but I don’t feel swamped. That’s because the shirt is boxy and sits at the waistline — if it was any longer, that swampy look would definitely come into play.

So, the next time you put a loose pair of trousers on and want to wear them with a loose top, try going for something that’s shorter and boxier. Beyond Nine does this style well (see here, here, and here).

Create waist definition

A very easy (and classic) way to create shape with loose pieces is by popping a belt on to add a bit of waist definition. I love the shirt and jeans as individual pieces, and when worn together, but bringing the belt into it helps make the look that bit more considered. Bonus points that this one has a good bit of silver hardware, so it acts as a decorative piece, too.

Give your sleeves some shape

I’m a big fan of rolling shirt sleeves up. With loose silhouettes, showing a bit of skin (in this case, the forearms) helps balance out all that fabric and steers us away from that swamped look.

But there are some long sleeves that can’t really be rolled, and would lose their uniqueness if they did. This dress is one such piece: it has long, voluminous sleeves that look great as they are, but even better when they’re scrunched up a bit to create more volume.

To do this (and make sure they stay in place), I use sleeve garters, popping them over the fabric just above the wrist, then pulling the sleeve through to where I want it to go (this video is a good demonstration).

You can do this with loose sleeves on shirts, tops, jackets and dresses (especially if they feel a bit too long), and it will give you a good bit of shape. I did this with the trench in the first look, too.

Layer something underneath

Sometimes, you put a loose dress on and feel like the silhouette needs a tad more structure. Something to create a bit more shape. That’s where a pair of trousers comes in (or leggings, as I did in winter with a velvet TOAST dress).

We have the looseness throughout most of the outfit (and in this case, a wonderfully full skirt), but the trousers poking through underneath bring it all in and give it a contrasting shape. It doesn’t just work with dresses, either. I often wear a pair of leggings under cropped trousers in the cooler months — for practicality, yes, but also to create a contrast in silhouette to make the outfit all the more interesting.

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But I’m not here to talk about climate change (I’ll leave that to the experts, but maybe we should collectively cool it with the ChatGPT usage?). I’m here to talk about clothes.

I tend to not add many summery pieces to my wardrobe. UK summers usually don’t require them, so buying lots of very seasonal items seems wasteful when they only get a look in for a handful of weeks a year. But in 2026, they’re putting in a shift. My summer dresses are now on weekly rotation, flip-flops are the only type of shoe touching my feet, and my big straw hat is almost a permanent fixture at this point.

But if there’s one outfit combination (or “formula”, if you prefer) I find myself wearing most day-to-day, it’s a shirt and a pair of shorts. It’s loose, comfortable, easy, and depending on the pieces and the styling, I find I can wear them to most places and occasions.

It’s the formula that works for beach cover-ups, popping out to run errands, going out for dinner, or spending a day in the office (depending on your office’s dress code, of course). And I know I’m not the only one reaching for shorts-and-shirts on the regular; wrote about how it’s become her unofficial summer uniform here.

Look 1

Black Bermuda shorts and a flowing, patchwork shirt: a smart but comfortable look I’ve taken out to dinner and to my co-working space. The extra length in the shorts feels that bit smarter than short shorts would, and the shirt feels fancier than your regular button-up. Plus, it’s still airy enough to deal with these rising temps.

Look 2

I ended up wearing this outfit a few times during my recent road trip around France. The shorts are my favourite boxer style from WNU — great cut, fit and fabric — and the oversized linen shirt is a wardrobe staple for me. It’s a casual look, but the quality of the pieces makes it feel considered.

Look 3

I wrote about this shirt in my last post. It’s very good: organic cotton, a good length, buttons actually placed with women’s bodies in mind. I’ve been wearing it when I want that classic crisp shirt look, and I love how the longer length leaves just a hint of the shorts poking through underneath. The deep red tote adds a touch of colour, and the flip-flops… well, as I said, they’re almost all my trotters can currently cope with.

Look 4

There’s nothing easier than a matching set, and on days when I want more chest coverage without being too hot, I’ve found myself instinctively getting this out of my wardrobe.

This is a linen duo from Calm Amongst the Chaos, released a couple of summers ago. The same shorts are available in navy, but it’s a small team, they make everything to order, and they do custom pieces, so it’s worth pinging them an email if the off-white is more your thing.

Look 5

I wore this during a trip to Zurich a couple of summers ago, and it’s still a look I wear now. Sometimes shorts and a T-shirt feel too casual, so when I want that same comfort with a little more polish, I’ll go for this: a loose, short-sleeved shirt with shorts that feel a touch smarter than the more casual pieces lingering in my wardrobe.

Look 6

One thing I love about an outfit “formula” is you can add or subtract at your leisure. Think of the formula (in this case, shirt + shorts) as your base, then you can bring a little more flair to it. That flair can be jewellery, an interesting pair of shoes, a colourful bag, or in this case, a light, long jacket. It adds extra length, a bit of a cover-up if your morning commute is a little nippy, and is a good option if you simply feel more “put together” when you have an extra layer.

Look 7

Ok — very simple, no styling, no jewellery, no accessories, just a plain old shirt-and-shorts combination. This has been a beach cover-up of choice for me this summer, thanks to the light cotton poplin of the shorts (a quick-drying fabric that isn’t precious), and the seersucker of the shirt (light, comfy, doesn’t crease). Because sometimes, you don’t need to mess with the core components of a formula.

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Any items marked with * have been gifted by brands. All thoughts, picks and reviews are my own.

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I love the silhouette oversized clothing can create, the ease, the fact that a bit of volume can turn a regular old pair of black trousers into one of the most interesting things you’ve seen that day. But I also know that dipping into oversized can come with a side of confusion. How oversized is too oversized? When does it veer from looking good to looking like you’ve forgotten your PE kit at school and had to raid the lost property box?

I answer those questions here, but for this post, I want to focus on the brands that create oversized clothing really well. Because, like most items, the power lies in the construction, the fabric, the fit. And after many years of wearing, trying and collecting oversized pieces, these are my favourites.

&Daughter. If you like quality knitwear that will last forever, this is a good place to shop. Not every style is oversized, so read the product descriptions before purchasing. This dark green slouchy V-neck knit almost makes me excited for winter. Prices from £270 for clothing.

Amomento. A Seoul-based brand that puts a lot of emphasis on form and fabric. Go for coats with rounded sleeves, knitted vests with big necks, and wide-leg balloon trousers. Prices from $90/€80.

Beyond Nine. The British brand flying the flag for style and comfort. Its pieces are designed to adapt to changing bodies (think loose, boxy tops and trousers with comfortable elasticated waistbands), and its excellent shapes and fabrics make every outfit interesting. Prices from £45/€52.95

Calm Amongst the Chaos. A British brand with a small team that designs and makes every item to order, using natural fabrics. Proportions are oversized, silhouettes are genuinely interesting, and each piece can be easily dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Prices from £35.

Cordera. Spanish brand Cordera makes all its pieces in small, family-run workshops in Spain using natural fabrics. Ethical practices aside, Cordera’s collections are made up of shapes you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere, like shirts with balloon sleeves, and (very comfortable) merino wool curved-leg trousers. Look out for their pieces that come in one or two sizes as they’re naturally loose and often adjustable. There’s also a small selection available at Smallable and SSENSE. Prices from €279 for clothing.

COS. I debated over including a high-street brand because, well, I’m sure you’ve all heard of COS, and it doesn’t need much promoting. But when I thought of the oversized pieces I’ve had in my wardrobe longest, COS makes up a hefty bunch of them. Particularly good for barrel-leg trousers, like these. Prices from £15 for clothing.

Egg. A London-based clothing brand that’s been making high-quality, hand-crafted pieces since the 1980s. Inspiration for its designs comes from around the world and is often loose-fitting and comfortable, yet elevated — like oversized coats with a mao collar made from mulberry silk and pleated baggy trousers in smooth cotton poplin. Prices from £120/$160/€145.

Eskandar. The namesake label of the Tehran-born, London-based designer. He draws on cultures found across Europe and Asia, with many pieces acting as loose layers — think airy tunics, voluminous jackets, and oversized dresses that will stay in your wardrobe for years to come. Harrods has a good selection, as does Liberty (in-store only). Prices from £195.

Estudio Niksen. If you like baggy trousers, big utilitarian jackets, and oversized casual clothing, get yourself to Canada-based Estudio Niksen. Most styles are unisex, so there’s no need for women to size up. In the UK, Goodhood has recently started stocking a small collection.

Girls of Dust. This Antwerp-based brand creates clothing inspired by vintage workwear and iconic menswear. There are big cord blazers, kimono-inspired jackets, and very wide balloon-leg trousers. Also available at END. and Maze. Prices from €56.65

James Street Co. Small batch, ethically made knitwear, T-shirts and denim, based in the US. Also, the brand behind my favourite ‘90s-inspired jeans. I’ve tried three pieces of this brand’s knitwear; they’re very oversized, so get your usual size. A heads-up: I had to pay customs when they were delivered to the UK. Prices from $160.

Lanefortyfive. London-based, made-to-order unisex clothing with excellent shapes and a touch of utilitarian detail. A good place to go for loose, casual suits, and airy, oversized shirts. Code ANGJ10 will get you 10% off. Prices from £200/$282/€234.

Louisa Charlotte Oates. A designer-maker based in England. Excellent oversized coats and other pieces made to order. There’s no website, so DM Louisa on Instagram or email her at louisaoates@hotmail.co.uk to purchase a piece, and you can give her your measurements. You’ll also have to request prices for each item. The last coat I bought was £300.

Moondal. A Seoul-based brand that creates women’s clothing. Lots of oversized pieces and big trousers with interesting shapes. A good place to go for everyday pieces, like slouchy knits and loose tees. Prices from $42.

Navygrey. This London-based brand made its name creating very good knitwear. The Oversize jumper* has a cult-like following, and I’m very lucky to have one in my wardrobe. It’s the perfect weight, colour and oversized fit. The brand also recently released a collection of shirts, including the Oversize*. It’s made from organic cotton, and it is properly oversized — I sized up one to accommodate my bump, but your usual size will still be oversized enough. Prices from £190.

OSKA. A Munich-based brand that creates great everyday pieces inspired by Japanese design, all with a slightly oversized silhouette. It’s big on ethical production, and you’ll find natural materials in all its collections. It’s worth going into a store for this one — the website doesn’t really do it justice. There’s a list of stores here. For anyone based in London, the one in Chelsea’s Duke of York Square is particularly good. Prices from £79.

Plümo. An East London staple since 1998. Plümo works with independent artisans around the world to create its pieces (many of them oversized and with interesting shapes), with proper, natural fabrics. The trousers and suits are worth looking out for. Prices from £49.

Róhe. In the same realm as the likes of Toteme, only its minimalist clothing is more sculptural and (dare I say it?) more interesting. This Amsterdam-based brand is a good one if you like oversized clothing but still want sculptural shapes and polish. Prices from £130/$180/€130.

Soeur. This French brand does oversized and polished very well. If it’s loose yet elevated, timeless Parisian style you covet, this brand is a great place to start. It’s always worth reading the fit notes and using the ‘find the right size’ tool — I’ve found it to be accurate. Prices from £35/$60/€35 for accessories, and £75/$115/€70 for clothing.

Studio Nicholson. Founder and owner Nick Wakeman knows what she’s doing. Many of the pieces at this British brand are loose and relaxed. They’re not overly oversized, so you won’t get that “swamped” feeling, but they still have excellent shapes. They stand the test of time, too — a lot of the trousers I’ve bought from here, I’ve had for years. Prices from £95/$140/€115.

TOAST. This British brand creates pieces that are free from trends but contemporary, and there’s often a bit of a utilitarian twist. I’ve had a lot of my TOAST pieces for years — they truly don’t date. Most of the brand’s pieces have a loose, relaxed fit, and its designs (and quality) stand the test of time. Prices from £15/$40/€23.

The Frankie Shop. If it’s oversized yet polished you’re after, head to this New York-based brand. The tailoring is particularly good — I have a pair of black wide-leg trousers that have been worn 100s of times. There’s also a good selection on Net-a-Porter. Prices from $45/€45.

YMC. YMC recently returned to its independent roots, and all the better for it. Designs take inspiration from traditional workwear but are given a creative (and very British) spin. If you like big (like, real big) trousers, don’t skip the Deadbeats. Prices from £55/$90/€75.

WNU. It started with excellent women’s shirts inspired by men’s tailoring. The collection has since expanded to boxer shorts (my favourite), brilliant trousers, and knitwear, but the commitment to quality and ethical production remains the same. Not everything at this brand is oversized, but the Weekend and Oversized shirts are. I always size up one for an even looser fit. Code ANGHARAD10 will get you 10% off. Prices from £32/$55/€50.

Further reading

Any items marked with * have been gifted by brands. All thoughts, picks and reviews are my own.

This post contains some affiliate links. If you buy something through those links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

I’m a big believer that the best way to treat event dressing is how you would treat everyday dressing — just a little fancier. Weddings, especially, can get us into a tizz, ending up in the kind of floral dress we would never normally wear, because that’s what we think we should do.

I’ve been to enough weddings to know when people are dressed in something they wouldn’t normally — they look uncomfortable, a little self-conscious. The best-dressed people in the room? They’re often wearing something completely different from the other guests in the room, and they have the kind of quiet confidence and ease that come with dressing exactly as themselves.

I also believe there’s a power in wearing something that doesn’t feel so occasion-y that you don’t feel as though you can wear it again, or will only wear it to an equally fancy event — and still, only if the guest list is different. The times I’ve felt my best as a wedding guest were when I’ve worn clothes I’ve worn numerous times before, just styled differently to make them more appropriate for the occasion. Sometimes, just a subtle tweak here or an accessory change there can make all the difference.

With that said, here are 11 different looks that tick those boxes. Fancy enough to feel special to wear to the events in your diary this summer, not so occasion-y that you’ll feel a bit daft if you decide to wear them to other events that require a slightly different dress code. They’re all versatile — a switch of shoes, bag or stack of jewellery can make these looks suitable for the events beyond that one circled in your diary this summer.

I can see this dress with flip-flops on holiday, or dressed up with a strappy pair of heels, gold earrings, and a stack of bracelets or an arm cuff for an occasion this summer. The earthy tones are perfect for warm summer evenings, and you can avoid those pastel florals that often overtake at this time of year.

There’s something very cool about a relaxed suit. Whenever I’ve worn a suit like this, or a top-and-trousers look to an event, I’ve felt undeniably myself, and it’s stood out amongst a sea of frocks. You could wear this suit with flats or a little heel, wear it with a shirt for something more formal, or style it as they have here with a simple tank top or strappy vest for a more casual spin. Plus, you can wear the suit as separate pieces for even more versatility.

It’s another suit, but a slightly different spin — the kind of thing you’d wear to an evening at an art gallery or to your coolest pal’s city wedding. The trousers are straight-leg with a drawstring waist, and the jacket is A-line with a high collar and welted pockets. Both are made from canvas. Egg is based in London but ships worldwide, with customs covered for the US, EU, and Canada.

If you haven’t already guessed, I love separate pieces for an event. You can style them with different items to create different looks, and you can really make the outfit your own. This long top is already visually interesting with its contrasting layers, and it slots perfectly over the black skirt with balloon-effect hem.

There’s nothing I love more than a floaty piece in summer. It’s cooling, non-restrictive, and if you’re heading out to dinner, you’re not spending any time thinking about whether that bit of bloat after your second helping of bread is showing. This chocolate brown caftan is made from cotton and silk and would work well with trousers or layered over a dress. Unfortunately, duties and taxes aren’t covered for shoppers outside the US.

If you like this layered look, Massimo Dutti has an off-white tunic with an attached cape that’s currently on sale. It’s long and flowy, so you could wear it over dresses, long shorts, or trousers.

Ok, I know what I said about florals earlier in this post, but this dress really is a thing of beauty. With a relaxed fit and embroidered velvet, this is a contemporary take on the floral dress — the kind of thing you could wear to summer events and occasions in winter (just with a fancy coat on top). It’s currently on pre-order and will be shipped in early August.

Ok, imagine this with a pair of slinky trousers, a pair of ballet flats, a low chignon, and some chunky gold rings for your next smart-casual evening soiree. Chic, non? This shirt is made from organic cotton poplin, it has a boxy shape, and it has a striking abstract pattern. Prepare for “ooh, where’s that from?” all night.

A very classic dress, but with a bit of a twist. This charcoal-coloured dress has asymmetric sleeves, a close-fitting cut, and a gathered side waist for a little extra detail. This amazonite jewellery collection would look beautiful with the dress in summer, and you could swap out for some heavier pieces come autumn and winter.

I saw this dress in store last week, and it’s beautiful in person (I don’t need a new dress, but I ended up buying a shirt in the same colour block print). The dress has a deep V-neck, which is mirrored at the back, it’s flowy, and it has the kind of spaghetti straps that are made for hot days. It would look just as good with flats on holiday as it would with strappy heels and statement silver jewellery for an event (I love the look of this vintage arm cuff).

I still remember the Jil Sander Spring 2011 collection, when then-creative director Raf Simons sent models down the runway wearing plain white T-shirts and billowing maxi skirts of varying colours. I was in my final year of university, dreaming of a career as a fashion journalist, and the casual-meets-fancy mix altered my brain chemistry forever. I still think a T-shirt-and-skirt combo is one of the coolest outfits you could wear.

This T-shirt is oversized, which makes a nice contrast to the A-line skirt, adding a bit of edge to the feminine piece. Plus, as the other separates featured in this article, you could wear them both with more casual pieces on non-event days.

Sometimes, you just can’t beat a long black dress. A true blank canvas, you can wear them with whatever jewellery, shoes, and accessories you like, depending on the occasion. This one from WNU is 100% linen, has a loose fit, and a V-cut at the front and back. Go for your usual size, and be prepared for it to be a true wardrobe workhorse.

Any items marked with * have been gifted by brands. All thoughts, picks and reviews are my own.

This post contains some affiliate links. If you buy something through those links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

What we didn’t realise when we booked this trip was that it would coincide with the hottest day ever recorded in France, the air con in our new (to us) car didn’t actually work, and that we’d be rocking up to each new destination drenched in sweat and barefoot because no shoe could physically fit on our swollen feet.

Extreme heat aside, it was a great trip, and we spent time in familiar and not-so-familiar parts of the country.

The route

Stop 1: Saumur, Loire Valley. A nice town on the river, but we didn’t do much apart from cool off in our hotel’s pool and plan our next meal — the food and wine here are excellent and very reasonably priced. We’ve stayed in Chinon before, down the road, which we preferred as there’s a bit more to do.

Stop 2: Cap Ferret. A first for both of us, and we both said this was our favourite on the trip. It’s on the other side of Arcachon Bay, and Bordeaux isn’t a million miles away. It’s a pretty untamed place, with unpaved streets lined with pine trees, a slow pace, and a “shoes optional” kind of vibe. There are upmarket places, but it’s also easy to find a traditional cabin to sleep in and an oyster shack overlooking the bay for dinner.

Stop 3: Biarritz. After the calm of Cap Ferret, Biarritz felt busy, but we soon got into the rhythm and relished eating all the food the Basque Country is known for — as well as the slightly cooler, breezy location. A great place to go if you want to surf (or enjoy watching it), eat incredible food, and dabble in a little shopping — it’s here that Coco Chanel opened her first couture house in 1915.

Stop 4: Saint-Agne, Dordogne. We only spent a couple of nights here as it was very much a “stop”, but we stayed in one of the best Airbnbs I’ve ever been in. We relaxed hard and spent our evenings reading in the garden. Well worth a trip if you’re in the area.

Stop 5: Angers. We didn’t know much about Angers, but picked it on a map because it seemed like a good place to stop as we made our way back up to Brittany. To be honest, we still don’t know much about it. Our hotel had a pool, and there was a casual bar about five minutes away, over the river (the only way to reach it is by pulling yourself across, as demonstrated in the video above), so those were the only places we spent our time. And it was time well spent!

Stop 6: Dinard. Just outside St Malo, close to the ferry back home. We’ve been a few times before, but it felt good to return — especially as our hotel was right on the beach and morning sea swims were mere steps away. Great place to spend a few days.

What I packed

I overdid it. Not having to adhere to airline luggage restrictions, I kept adding pieces “just in case”. My experience with summers in France has been mixed weather-wise, so I packed trousers, a jumper, and pieces I could layer. I had to stop myself from putting my raincoat in the car.

But it was hot. I lived in the loose shirts and shorts I packed, and the roomy dresses. As we were road-tripping, I didn’t unpack everything at every stop, and the items at the bottom of my case were practically untouched. I remember doing the same during a 6-week road trip in Australia — only wearing the items that were easily in reach. Note to self for my next road trip: cull. cull. cull.

Anyway, here’s what made it in the case. And below, for paid subscribers, is how I put these pieces together.

• 2 x linen shirts (one navy from Something to Hold, one white from DL1961)

• 2 x cotton shirts (this* from WNU, and this from Uniqlo)

• 3 x pairs of shorts (this* and this* from WNU, plus an old striped pair from Posse)

• 8 x dresses (an oldie from COS, an oldie from Ganni, another from COS, one from Cortana, one from RIXO*, one from WNU*, one from Massimo Dutti, and one custom piece from Louisa Charlotte Oates. I definitely didn’t need 8, but I did wear all of them at least once)

• 2 x T-shirts (one white and one buttermilk from Rise & Fall. ANGHARAD15 for 15% off)

• 3 x trousers (these and these* from Beyond Nine, these* from Nobody’s Child. One pair would have been enough — it was too hot for trousers)

• 1 x cotton jumper (from James Street*. Not needed)

• 1 x light cotton jacket (an oldie from TOAST)

• 2 x playsuits (two from COS that I’ve owned for years. One went untouched — it had an unfortunate spot at the bottom of the suitcase)

• 2 x bikinis (this and this) and 2 x one-pieces (this* and this. My bump had a growth spurt while we were away, so I found the one-pieces a bit uncomfortable, and they weren’t used)

• 2 x straw hats (Lack of Color and COS. One would have been enough)

• 2 x pair of black flip-flops (FitFlop and Archies. Worn a LOT)

• 1 x fisherman sandals (Salt-Water)

• 1 x pair of suede sandals (A. EMERY)

• 1 x linen vest top (An old navy version of this)

• 1 x linen shorts-and-shirt set (Calm Amongst the Chaos)

• 1 x sarong (Etsy)

• 1 x pair of trainers (this Nike pair. Didn’t really need — I wore them once)

• 2 x pairs of sunglasses (these and these)

• 2 x straw bags (one from Paris/64 and a past season one from ME + EM — this one is very similar)

• Jewellery (I overdid it and packed every “summery” piece I own. A few pieces would have been more manageable)

• 1 x silk scarf (an oldie from Sunspel. This is the same print)

• My pregnancy pillow (best thing I packed)

The pieces in action

Read more

It’s my first pregnancy, so I spent the first few months navigating the hormones, the bodily changes, and the wild (read: rough) ride that is the first trimester, each day as it came. No matter how much you read, research or hear about what to expect, nothing quite prepares you for the experience of living through it.

And even though I’ve worked in fashion for the entirety of my 15-year career, nothing quite prepared me for how difficult getting dressed would be during pregnancy.

I went into it thinking I'd basically wear my regular wardrobe until I had a bump. I had visions of a first trimester in my usual clothes, with no one else the wiser as I ventured onto this brand-new path.

What I (naively) failed to take into account was that, yes, I may not have a visible bump, but that first-trimester bloating? Whew. I looked (and felt) about 6 months pregnant after every meal. And when I wasn't bloated, the tiniest bit of compression on my stomach was enough to completely turn it.

As for the rest of my body, let's just say my arse had a growth spurt. A very rapid one.

My jeans and beloved high-waisted trousers with structured waistbands got relegated to the back of the wardrobe much sooner than I thought. The accessories that I usually turned to — like my goes-with-everything Hollyhock belt from Déhanche — became obsolete. The silk scarves I usually tied around my neck to dress up a neckline instantly made me gag, so they, too, were folded and packed away.

Between weeks 6 and 12, I felt a bit… lost. My energy levels were depleted, and it was a struggle to get through my workload, never mind putting an outfit together that felt comfortable on my changing body and made me feel a bit more like myself.

But now, five months in, I feel like I’ve got my mojo back. I no longer need a 3 AM cheese snack (the non-stop eating in the first few months was wild), a lie-down after responding to a few emails, or a 2 PM nap. The grey hue that permanently tinged my face has made way for something resembling a pregnancy glow (or that may just be my Sonsie moisturiser). My exhaustion has been replaced by excitement. And I no longer feel defeated when an item of clothing doesn’t fit — it just gets packed away with the rest of my pre-pregnancy pieces.

I’m leaning into what does work for me and my body, and I’m now viewing getting dressed as an interesting challenge rather than a frustrating one. With time, trial and error, I’ve found the pieces that feel good (at this stage, anyway) and feel like me, so I’ve listed them below. And the best bit? These were all items I owned and wore pre-pregnancy, so they’ll work just as well without a bump too.

Oversized shirts

Regular readers probably saw this coming: oversized shirts are already a staple for me. But as my body has changed, I’ve appreciated their comfort and roominess even more, plus the fact that I can leave a few buttons undone when bump feels particularly large. My most-worn shirts are from Something to Hold and WNU (just size up one for a looser fit), but for more of my favourite brands, cast your eyes here.

Loose dresses

One thing I’ve enjoyed about dressing for pregnancy in summer is that I can just pop on a loose dress and be done. There’s no worrying about waistbands or anything digging in, and my body can move easily, unrestricted. The above dress is from RIXO, and a bit like The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants (best book/film of my teens), it’s one of those magical pieces that works with every body shape, size and type. I have it in my usual size, and it fits me just as well now as it did pre-pregnancy.

For more on summer dresses, you might like this post.

Elasticated waistbands

Another entry you won’t be surprised to see: I’ve been a fan of the comfy, stretchy elasticated waist for a long time (I even dedicated a post to them recently). But for a trousers (and boxer shorts) lover like me, this kind of waist has allowed me to wear pieces I feel comfortable — and like myself — in, without having to sacrifice style or delve into the (honestly quite depressing) maternity section of the department store.

Beyond Nine and TOAST are very good with an elasticated waist. My pyjama shorts (ANGHARAD10 for 10% off) have also been an unexpected but welcome go-to for my morning walks.

Roomy T-shirts

I included these T-shirts in my best wardrobe staples post about 18 months ago, and that opinion still stands. They’re made from 100% organic cotton, they’re soft and lightweight (and not see-through) and they have a classic, regular fit. Oh, and they’re £35 (or $65 USD) — but they look, feel and last like they’re a lot more than that. I have a few and always size up one for a slightly looser fit. My pregnant self is very grateful for that now.

Big jumpers

Admittedly, I haven’t been wearing jumpers much recently, and since taking the above pic, I can no longer fit into those linen trousers either. But when I’ve headed out for evening walks along the beach, a big cotton jumper like this one has been the perfect companion (side note: cotton jumpers are great for summer — I wrote a post on that here). It’s comfy and cosy, providing a nice bit of warmth without being too much, plus there’s plenty of space for bump.

Seamless jumpsuits

A bit like a dress, a jumpsuit is a “one-and-done” piece. Easy. But for pregnancy, I find I need a specific kind: it needs to be roomy and not have any sort of definition around the waist. This one is made from soft jersey, and there’s plenty of room in it to stretch as bump continues to grow. Currently, it skims over my body effortlessly, and its shape and colour always make it feel special to wear, rather than a “maternity” piece. I sized up one, but for the non-pregnant among you, I’d recommend going for your usual size, as it’s quite oversized.

Nighties

During my first trimester, I spent a lot of time in sweatpants (namely this pair and this). They were comfortable, loose, and were exactly the kind of thing I wanted to pull on as I spent yet another evening on the sofa watching Netflix’s naffest offerings.

But with the heatwaves that have graced our shores, there’s no way I want to spend my time at home in thick jersey trousers. So, I’ve been wearing my If Only If nightie* instead. It’s light and roomy (I wear my usual size, and there’s plenty of room for bump to grow), and it’s made from 100% organic cotton. Bliss on a hot evening with the fan on, and a Fab in hand.

Flip-Flops

My feet haven’t known what’s hit them. Between carrying a growing baby and dealing with the silly temperatures we’ve had in the UK and across Europe recently, the swelling has been… humbling. There have been days when I’ve forgotten I have ankles. My sleek, slim sandals from summers past just aren’t up to the job, so it’s been flip-flops and Birkenstocks most days of the week. Crucially, not just any old flip-flop. My 36-year-old feet need support and comfort, so I’ve been flitting between this pair from FitFlop, and this rubber pair from Archies.

Adjustable bikinis

I spent a couple of weeks in France recently (more on that soon), and when I was sorting through what I wanted to pack, I realised that a large chunk of my swimwear no longer fits (see line about arse growth above). Bikini tops were digging in (apart from this fave from Left on Friday), bottoms barely got over my thighs, and one-pieces were an overly-compressive nightmare.

But there were two styles that felt like a joy. First up: my string bikini top and bottoms. They’re adjustable! I don’t need to wriggle into them! They stay in place when I swim!

The second style: my Youswim bikini. Made from a knitted, crinkled fabric (similar to Hunza G), it adapts to your body shape and size, and honestly, I think it looks and fits better on my current pregnant body than it did before. There are two sizes available: Stretch I, which fits UK sizes 6-16, and Stretch II, which fits UK sizes 18-28.

I couldn’t imagine navigating summer without them.

Any items marked with * have been gifted by brands. All thoughts, picks and reviews are my own.

This post contains some affiliate links. If you buy something through those links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The longest I was ever in one job before I went freelance was three years, so this feels like a Big Deal. And in some ways, it feels like I’ve only really just started.

I remember umming and ahhing over whether to start a newsletter. I’d heard of Substack, but in the summer of 2023, it wasn’t exactly part of the vernacular in the UK. When I told friends and family I was thinking of starting one up, I was met with puzzled faces and “what’s Substack?” To be honest, I still get that three years in.

So, why start a newsletter? I’d been freelance (copywriting, editorial writing, and content strategy) for a couple of years, and enjoyed the highs of a very buoyant market and suffered through the lows of a very stagnant one. In the months leading up to starting this online space, I’d had more projects cancelled because of budget cuts than I’d had work coming in.

Speaking strictly financially, I realised I needed one revenue stream that I had a bit more control of (on that note: a huge thank you to all of my paid subscribers. You really do make this newsletter possible!).

But apart from that, I wanted work that I owned. As much as I love my freelance work, it’s nice to have a space where I can type freely without working to a brief. The only direction comes from my own brain and my brilliant readers, who leave insightful comments that spark an idea or a deeper conversation.

I’d also been on the Instagram train for a while. And while I won’t waste time complaining about the algorithm, making reels and performing for a social media platform isn’t really me. I’m much more comfortable with a desk, a keyboard, and my (let’s face it, daily) check-ins on Thesaurus.com.

So, The Jones Report was born. I told myself I’d give it six months and see how it went, and, well, three years in, it’s safe to say I love this space and the community that comes with it.

I may not have tens of thousands of subscribers or earn $500k a month on ShopMy. But sitting down to write this newsletter is my favourite part of my working week, as is reading your comments and being nosy to see what you’re all clicking on most. And knowing that The Jones Report is read in 108 countries blows my mind.

So, thank you. For all your support, your subscribes, your reads, your clicks, your shares. I hope this space can continue for another three.

Top 5 most-read posts

There’s nothing wrong with these pieces, per se, but for those of us who don’t live in Bali for six months a year, there’s a high chance we won’t actually wear them in our “real lives”.

And while we’ll always own items of clothing that are seasonal or saved for special occasions, I’m more interested in building a summer wardrobe that’s versatile, hard-wearing, and won’t make me feel like I’m cosplaying a character from the latest season of The White Lotus.

I’m talking about the clothes you can throw on over your bikini and head to the beach in, and be happy to sit in a bar in for a sundowner afterwards. Clothes that you don’t mind getting a little sand and sun cream on, but you’ll also be excited to wear out to dinner too (maybe brush the sand off first, though).

In other words, these are cover-ups… but they’re also so much more than cover-ups.

First up: a pareo, the classic beach cover-up for wrapping around the waist or higher up across the chest when you want a little more coverage. But off the beach? This piece will work just as well as a midi skirt (just bear in mind that it’s semi-sheer). It’s made from 100% ramie, a renewable and biodegradable plant fibre, and it comes in a generous rectangular cut (144cm x 108cm), so there are ample styling opportunities. It also comes in black and white.

I have a couple of playsuits from COS that I live in on holiday. They’re an easy one-piece, and they work really well for chucking over my swimsuit, as well as mooching about in the day with a cord necklace. This black number from COS is 100% linen and has sculpted pleats, so it feels a little more interesting than your bog standard cover-up.

Ahh, the big shirt and shorts set: one of summer’s easiest cover-ups? This particular set is seersucker, a light cotton that is blissfully crease-free, making it perfect for rolling up into your beach bag, then shaking it out as you head out for lunch or a drink post-swim. I have the blue version of this shirt, and I can confirm it makes a very good everyday piece, too. If you’re not interested in a matching set, the shirt is listed separately here, and the shorts here.

100% linen, relaxed leg, elasticated waistband, unlined… these trousers were made for hot days. A good option to wear over swimwear if you’re not a pareo or shorts person, without overheating, plus you can wear them when you’re not beach or poolside too. P.S. if you’re looking for swimwear, Left On Friday is very good and makes pieces for all shapes and sizes. I recently got this one piece*, and it’s one of the most supportive (with no digging in) pieces I’ve tried.

A big linen shirt is one of my most-worn cover-ups (and summer items in general). It gives you more coverage when you want a break from sun exposure, the fabric is cooling, and it doesn’t matter when it looks a bit worn and creased. There’s something about the subtle pink shade of this shirt that reminds me of those slightly faded colours of holidays — painted walls or shop signs that have been bleached by the sun — that makes it even better for summer.

A lightweight, 100% cotton gauze wrap skirt that you’d be very happy to wear to the beach and out to lunch. The blue-and-white stripe is classic summer, and the wraparound waistband makes it nice and adjustable. Very much a throw-on-and-go piece that would look good simply with a white T-shirt.

Is there anything easier on a hot day than a loose-fitting mini dress? I don’t think so. This one is made from 100% Japanese cupro — it’s a silk-like fabric that’s much easier to care for and, in very good news, it’s machine washable. It has a low scoop back, so it feels a little fancy, and it’s fully lined so you don’t have to worry about that see-through-ness that often comes with cover-ups.

This skirt is one of the hardest-working items in my summer wardrobe. It’s 100% natural linen, and is one of those pieces that I can just pull on over my swimwear. Plus, the fold-over waistband and small side slit make it an interesting enough skirt for evening or daytime too — as shown here, heading out to dinner in Favignana last summer.

Another shirt and shorts duo, because they really can’t be beaten. Wear them together, wear them as separates, wear them to the beach, wear them for your morning boulangerie run… there really is no limit. The shirt is oversized, and the shorts have a relaxed fit with a drawstring, paperbag waist, so I recommend going for your usual size. Both are 100% linen, and come in a variety of colours.

An organic cotton blue-and-white striped shirt that’s just screaming for its sleeves to be rolled up as you sit down for a vermouth over ice after a long day at the beach. It has an easy, relaxed fit, so go for your usual size.

Regular readers are probably sick of seeing this sarong, but it’s too good not to include here. I bought it on Etsy last summer for a mere £13. It’s cotton, block printed using natural colours, and the generous size (72 inches x 44 inches) makes it great for wrapping in all sorts of ways. I wear it to the beach, pool, and as a skirt — I’ve even been wearing it as a DIY mini recently.

How I tie my sarong

Hope you can understand my Merseyside accent :)

There’s something so fun and nostalgic about this illustrated zodiac T-shirt (I’m sure I had some very similar styles in the ‘90s). I wore it a lot last summer with shorts to the beach (where better for a Pisces to spend her time?), and honestly, I wear it year-round, too. It’s 100% lyocell, so it’s nice and lightweight, and yes, it comes in all zodiac signs. I sized up one for a slightly looser fit.

Like a playsuit, a jumpsuit is one of those easy, throw-on pieces that you can dress up or down depending on the occasion. Heading to the beach? Wear this one as is — the 100% linen fabric makes it nice and cool. Want to wear it to dinner? Pair it with a big bangle, and you’re good to go.

Any items marked with * have been gifted by brands. All thoughts, picks and reviews are my own.

This post contains some affiliate links. If you buy something through those links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Regular readers will know that trousers are kind of my thing. I’ll take them over dresses and skirts every day of the week, and I’m not fussy when it comes to style. Wide-leg, barrel, horseshoe, straight… I’ve dabbled in every shape and cut, and I love how each one can dramatically change the silhouette of the whole outfit.

I don’t abandon trousers in summer, either, but the fabrics, styles and colours shift ever so slightly. I find myself breezing past my more tailored pairs in favour of looser legs, the heavier fabrics are overlooked, and any structured waistband receives a firm shake of the head.

Because at this time of year, I want to dress in a way that’s easy and effortless. I know “effortless” gets thrown around too often (and really, is anything truly effortless?), but here I’m talking about light fabrics like cotton and linen that won’t weigh me down on hot days, colours that go with everything so there’s no overthinking an outfit in the morning when I could be outside enjoying the morning sun, and soft, elasticated waistbands that blissfully won’t dig in as I reach for another helping at a BBQ.

My friends at Maze, the Bristol-based independent retailer with an excellent line-up of brands including YMC, Girls of Dust, Bobo Choses, MHL, and more, have an equally good selection of properly effortless trousers this season. Here’s how I’ll be styling my favourite pairs over the summer months.

For reference, I’m 5’4”, but the beauty of these trousers is that they all have elasticated waistbands, which means you can wear them high or low on the waist, switching up the length.

Look 1

First up: this paprika-coloured 100% linen pair from L.F. Markey. They have a loose, subtle barrel leg, an elasticated waistband (of course), and an easy flowy-ness to them that makes them very comfortable to wear. The paprika shade is nice and muted (great if you want to play with colour but don’t want to go too bold), and it just so happens to go perfectly with the colour of the embroidered ducks on the Bobo Choses shirt.

Look 2

These Sessùn trousers are supposed to be 7/8 in length — i.e., hovering just above the ankle. But on this 5’4”er, they’re more like full length, and I’m not mad about it. They’re loose-fitting in a soft seersucker, and the lightweight nature of them (plus the light colour) says “effortless summer” quite unlike anything else. They look good with tops tucked in, but I like a big shirt for even more ease and comfort.

Look 3

Relaxed wide leg, lightweight cotton, elasticated waistband, stripes in a mix of Aegean blues… these Sideline trousers are the type of summer piece that instantly makes a day brighter. Given that they’re such a statement style, I’ve balanced the trousers out with an ecru-coloured short-sleeved shirt from Sacrécoeur — but if you’re more bold than me, Sideline has a matching top.

Look 4

These Sessùn trousers are the same as the off-white ones in look two, only this time they’re in a dark forest green (the perfect alternative if white trousers are a no-go for you practicality-wise). The darker shade makes these trousers a good option for evening wear or for those occasions when you want to dress up a little, as well as for more casual looks. This is what I’d wear for an evening when I want to make a bit of an effort, but still feel effortless.

Look 5

These trousers are a voluminous barrel-leg style from Sacrécoeur — nice and roomy, and in cotton poplin, they’re lightweight yet hardy too. I’ve worn them low on the waist here so they gather a bit at the ankle, but you can wear them higher up to make that barrel shape even more prominent. For an everyday, don’t-need-to-think-about-it outfit, I’ve paired these trousers with an equally effortless oversized shirt and flip-flops. A formula that can’t be beaten.

For more from Maze, take a look at the full collection here. There’s women’s and menswear, as well as a good selection of homeware, and a bit of children’s wear.

Any items marked with * have been gifted by brands. All thoughts, picks and reviews are my own.

This post contains some affiliate links. If you buy something through those links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

As I’ve leant into grey over the past few weeks, I’ve found myself stopping to ask if this really is a “summer colour”. After all, the UK’s skies may have an almost permanent tinge of grey, but is that really how I want to dress in the warmer months? But then I’ve reminded myself that there are no rules. I wear black without thinking twice, even when the temperature rises to record numbers, so why question grey?

As a bit of reassurance, I did what I often do when I need a little inspiration: I looked to the runways. Lo and behold, there were the sprinklings of grey I’d saved from the SS26 shows (perhaps it’s seeped into my subconscious?).

There was Carven, with its soft grey dresses and blouses, in loose silhouettes that suggest summer ease rather than winter restriction. And there was Dries Van Noten, pairing tulle skirts with grey tops, and showing that a little opaque structure can sit very comfortably beside sheer whimsy.

It made me realise that, really, any colour can work at any time of year, but to make it seasonally appropriate, it’s all in the pieces you choose — and the styling (isn’t it always?).

Tips for wearing grey in summer

• Choose soft fabrics. A piece that drapes and hangs effortlessly will always be a good bet in summer, no matter the colour

• Add other colours. Grey can be a bit drab (sorry, grey), but it works as a good ‘pairing’ colour — try wearing it with a blue necklace or a pair of deep red shoes to give it a lift

• Show some skin. This advice is often touted with dressing (especially when it comes to oversized pieces), and it works here, too. A grey long-sleeved top with a pair of shorts that show some leg? Summer in the city perfection

• Add texture. A raffia or basket bag always has a place in my summer wardrobe. They instantly add a bit of visual interest and are useful and hardy. An easy way to give your grey cotton tee a summer makeover

• Lighter greys tend to be easier to work with than dark shades, as they don’t feel quite as heavy (this silk-cotton vest, that's currently on sale, is a good example)

Look 1

It’s all about the soft, drapey fabrics with this outfit. The T-shirt and skirt are both made from 100% organic cotton, and have easy cuts — the tee, loose and oversized, and the skirt, flexible in how it’s gathered and tied at the waist.

They’re light, summery pieces, even if their shade of grey may not scream “light and summery.” I’ve also added texture with a raffia bag, and the choice of footwear — flip-flops — makes this grey outfit a lot more seasonally appropriate.

Look 2

This outfit ticks a few boxes from my tips listed above:

• Soft fabric (this top is a light silk-cotton mix)

• Colour pairings, as seen in the green necklace and block-printed sarong

• And a bit of skin, thanks to pushed-up sleeves and bare legs on show

I find the long sleeves on the top help ‘balance’ the bare legs too, especially if you’re not used to/comfortable with showing much leg. I’ll be honest, I haven’t been a mini skirt person in a long time, but this post by was enough to inspire me to dip back into the mini. Not wanting to fully commit to buying a new piece for my wardrobe though, I folded up my trusty sarong and made that into one instead. Best £13 I’ve ever spent.

Look 3

Yes, your grey trousers can work in summer — it just depends on the fabric and fit, and what you pair them with. These trousers are made from fluid cotton with buttons at the hem that you can do up or leave open (I tend to do them up to add more shape). In other words, they’re light and easy in a way that my grey wool trousers, which are reserved for winter, could never be. TOAST has a good pair of grey linen trousers here.

Secondly: the pairings. Here we have a blue-and-white striped seersucker shirt from WNU. In 100% organic cotton, it’s light, soft, subtly textured, and very easy to wear. The green beaded necklace and flip-flops only add to that summery vibe.

Look 4

Like the sarong outfit above, we’ve got a lot of skin on show here, but it’s balanced out with the long-sleeved top. The cornflower-blue shorts instantly bring a summery feel to this look, as do the beaded necklace and a colourful(ish) pair of trainers. That’s the beauty of grey — it really does go with every colour.

Any items marked with * have been gifted by brands. All thoughts, picks and reviews are my own.

This post contains some affiliate links. If you buy something through those links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

But this isn’t your chunky wool or cashmere (if that’s what you’re after, head here). I’m talking lightweight, breathable cotton that you can throw on over your shorts at the beach when the sea breeze gets a bit too chilly.

Jumpers that feel cosy but don’t put you in danger of overheating. Knitted cotton vests for layering over your long-sleeved tees on the days you need a little extra, and cardis so soft and light, they feel like a second skin.

Beyond being good for summer, cotton knitwear is also a great option for sensitive skin, so if you find yourself feeling itchy whenever you pull on a wool jumper, consider giving cotton a whirl.

Below, you’ll find 11 brands that create very good cotton knitwear, plus my picks from each one. They may even be enough to enjoy those cooler days when they (inevitably) roll around this summer.

The Knotty Ones

Last week, The Knotty Ones announced that it’s at risk of closure. Unfortunately, too many brilliant independent brands are having to close their doors (if you’re looking for more to support, see my small and independent brand index), and it seems as though this one is facing the same fate.

The Knotty Ones is a female-founded Lithuanian brand that employs 40 female knitters in rural Lithuania to make its beautiful jumpers and cardigans. And they’ve offset 100% of their carbon footprint, so they’re completely climate-neutral.

Each design is inspired by the founders’ Baltic heritage and made with quality fabrics, including cotton, like this olive-coloured, oversized jumper in 100% organic cotton. It’s part of the brand’s farewell sale — although I’m hoping it isn’t goodbye forever.

James Street

I first tried a version of this jumper last summer, in navy with a yellow trim along the neckline. It was oversized, soft, and satisfyingly heavy, without being too warm. So, when I saw this season’s cornflower-blue version? I snapped it right up. James Street has a lot of other 100% cotton jumpers and cardigans in its collection, so it’s well worth a look. Take a careful note of the sizing, as most of it is already oversized, so go for your usual size or down one if you like a closer fit.

[Side note on the trousers in the pic because I always get asked about them: They’re WNU’s Rampling, a tailored wide-leg style in 100% linen, and they’re true to size. For a slimmer trouser, the tapered-leg Christy is very good. ANGHARAD10 for 10% off].

Beyond Nine

A 100% cotton vest, this time in a rich tobacco colour that will work really well with your off-white and black pieces this summer. It has a relaxed fit and subtle rolled-edge detailing, so it will make a good layering piece in autumn and winter, as well as one you’ll want to wear on its own now. Plus, like all of Beyond Nine’s pieces, it’s designed to grow with your body — not the other way around.

TOAST

TOAST is a very British brand, so it’s no surprise its summer offering includes a good dollop of knitwear. At the time of writing, there are 16 pieces of cotton knitwear in its collection, ranging from vests to T-shirts to full-sleeve jumpers like this one. This particular piece is a cotton-linen blend and has a swingy shape and rolled edges. The chocolate colour will satisfy any dark colour cravings this summer (and well into autumn).

Elwin

Read more

But the thing with summer dresses is that we can get a bit… carried away. If you haven’t already, I recommend you read ’s piece on dresses she doesn’t hate. I almost spat my tea out when she mentioned the dresses that had her likened to Andy Pandy — but soon nodded in agreement. I’m sure we’ve all been caught in a cutesy, frilly, florally dress or two once summer rolls around (retailers still love them).

So below, I’ve got a list of 16 dresses that are definitely not that. These are dresses you’ll actually want to wear, and feel good in as you pull them on in the morning.

Plus, they’re all very versatile. Want to dress them down? Wear them as is or pop a layer (a tank, say, or a pair of trousers) underneath. Want to wear them to something a little fancier? Add a good helping of jewellery and maybe a little heel (this pair has been popular amongst subscribers), and you’ve got an outfit for that, too.

An A-line dress in off-white: simple, yet well-crafted in the way that Studio Nicholson always pulls off, and with an asymmetric wrap front that gives it a bit of an edge. I love how they’ve styled it with trousers here, but it would work just as well on its own with a bit of jewellery and a colourful bag.

I shared this look in ’s piece about what I (and a bunch of other brilliant writers) would wear for a day in Paris, and I’ve worn it a lot since. The dress is linen (and currently on sale) and comes in a deep russet colour — a nice departure from my usual black, white and navy, without being too bold that I won’t actually wear it. I’ve been wearing trousers underneath it because, besides a recent heatwave, we often need an extra little layer in this part of the world — but it looks just as good on its own.

Perfect for hot days when you want something a little loose and skimpy. This dress (currently in Soeur’s very good sale) is made from a lyocell/linen mix, and has two delicate straps that button at the back. Speaking of the back, it’s just as beautiful as the front, with a slight opening that makes for a very interesting detail.

Is there anything better than a 90s-style slip dress? I have one from Raey that I bought a few years ago before it shuttered, and it’s one of my favourite pieces to get out once the sun appears. This one from Aussie brand Venroy is 100% linen, has slim, adjustable straps, and an invisible side zip for easy getting in and out. There are a few other colours, and international shipping is available at a cost.

I love a black dress in summer (you’ll see a few throughout this post). They’re classic, they’re easy, and they look good with any accessory and other colour. This dress from Studio Nicholson is made from crushed viscose, which gives it an effortless drape. There’s a low, elasticated waist to give it shape, and a flowing skirt for that fluidity, perfect for summer.

This dress has an asymmetric wrap silhouette, a V-neckline, and a V at the back too. For an everyday summer dress, I’d wear it as they’ve styled it here: layered over a tank or a light long-sleeved top. It would work just as well for evening too, with a pair of heels or fancy flats and a good sprinkling of jewellery.

A voluminous dress on a hot day: what could be better? This pima cotton poplin dress from Merlette has a boat neck, long sleeves with elasticated cuffs, and gathering at the sides and back. Like with the other black dresses featured in this post, it’s perfect for dressing up or down. I love the idea of it with ballet pumps or flip-flops for an everyday dress.

Another blank canvas dress that can be worn in multiple ways. This one is made from 100% organic, midweight cotton, and comes in a soft cinnamon brown. It has a swing shape that looks great on its own (as shown) or belted at the waist if you want a little more definition.

I have a long black cotton dress that I bought in an Acne sample sale in Melbourne circa 2018. It’s pretty simple — no bells, no whistles — but it has a great shape, and it’s useful. I still wear it every summer. This dress is pretty similar, but is made from a soft brushed jersey. Honestly, sometimes a ‘basic’ can become one of the most utilised pieces in your wardrobe.

When I think about the dresses I throw on most in summer, there’s one that springs to mind: a long blue, sleeveless dress from COS bought years ago, with a slightly low back. It’s nothing fancy, but I always get compliments when I wear it, and I can zhush it up with a bit of jewellery. This TOAST dress is very similar, but it comes with the added benefit of a nice button detail at the back. It’s also available in washed black.

100% cotton, sleeveless, with a full, voluminous skirt that creates an excellent shape. There’s space to add an extra layer underneath this dress (cupro trousers in this case, to add a bit more to the silhouette), and it’s truly a blank canvas, so you can have fun with accessories, jewellery, and outerwear. If bright colours are more your thing, the red version of this dress is currently on sale.

You can never have too many linen dresses in my opinion (for my top linen brands, cast your eyes here). They’re easy, cooling, and if you look after them well, you’ll have them for years. This dress from TOAST has contrasting wide and narrow stripes, side pockets, and a loose-ish shape. It’s shown here with the matching culottes, which adds a little extra to the overall silhouette.

A mini shift dress is such a useful piece to have in a summer wardrobe. Throw it on with a pair of sandals on hot days, or layer it over a pair of trousers on cooler ones — there’s really so much you can do with it. This dress from DISSH has that classic shift shape, with a deep V-neckline and embroidered lace trim. A bit like a nightie, only much less see-through.

New Zealand-based Harris Tapper is now available on Moda Operandi, making it much easier for those of us outside the Southern Hemisphere to get our hands on the brand. This piece is a wrap-effect midi dress with gathered shoulders, crossover draping, and an elasticated waist. For an everyday dress, pair it with sandals or flats, and a silver cuff.

A very simple, sleeveless throw-on-and-go dark brown dress with a scoop back. There aren’t many details apart from an exposed seam down the centre of the back, which makes it very easy to play with accessories and other colours. I love the idea of it with a bold gold necklace.

You’ve probably seen me mention this dress before (it even made it into last week’s travel essentials post), but it is very good. A classic 100% linen shift in deep navy (it also comes in white), it’s one of those wear-anywhere-and-everywhere pieces I know I’ll be living in this summer. Go for your usual size, and use code ANGHARAD10 for 10% off.

Any items marked with * have been gifted by brands. All thoughts, picks and reviews are my own.

This post contains some affiliate links. If you buy something through those links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

I’m heading to France in a few weeks for my annual summer getaway. My husband and I are taking our car over on the ferry and doing a road trip, so I’ve been thinking about a) what I can take that won’t fill up too much of the boot (we’ll need that room for the French delicacies we’ll bring back), and b) what will serve me for multiple destinations around the country.

I’ll be honest, my summer packing list doesn’t differ too much year-to-year, except for maybe a few tweaks depending on where I’m headed. And this year (like most), I’m all about ease: beauty products that are excellent at what they do but don’t take a genius to figure out, big shirts that double as cover-ups, clothes that can be easily paired with others, and shoes that work for everything.

Beauty

SURI toothbrush

I’ve been a SURI user for a couple of years now and, honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever go back. Firstly, they look good: sleek, slim designs, colours that go beyond the usual white, and a magnetic mirror mount that keeps things neat and mess-free (no wires and gunk gathering, thank you).

Secondly, the clean it gives is exceptional. And thirdly, it’s great to travel with. It comes with a travel case that doubles as a charger when plugged in (if I need it — the battery lasts for at least a month), and has a UV-C light that cleans the brush of 99.9% bacteria in one minute.

It’s the toothbrush I recommend to all my friends. And now you can get 15% off any SURI order with code ANGHARAD. Shop SURI here.

Cadence bottles and travel bag

I used to pack full bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body lotion… you name it. This alone would take up most of the space in my suitcase (and weigh a tonne), so now I decant everything into small travel bottles, even when I’m not restricted by aeroplane liquid allowance. This kit from Cadence is one of the best I’ve found. The bottles (or ‘capsules’) are magnetic, modular, and interchangeable, so you can change up the size as needed. It also comes with a toiletries bag that fits them perfectly.

SPF

It goes without saying, but finding one you really like can be easier said than done. I like this one from Ultra Violette for the face — it also acts as a primer, so it’s good under makeup — and Merit’s tinted SPF when I want a little colour. For the body, this SPF50 oil from Coco & Eve helps fight signs of ageing, boosts your natural tan, and smells delicious.

Fragrance

I’m not really a floral perfume kind of person, but I still love seasonal perfumes that smell like summer. Beauty Pie’s Le Smash Santal has notes of almond, tonka bean, and sandalwood, and is very good value. It also comes in a discovery set, if you want to try it out before committing to a full bottle.

Easy makeup

The last thing I want on my face in summer is a lot of makeup that slowly and surely melts into my hairline or pools at my chin. I want quick fixes that do the job, stay put, and aren’t so much of a faff that they eat into precious aperitivo time. Here are a few of my go-tos:

• Jones Road face pencil. An easy concealer for covering up blemishes, redness, etc. I wear shade 6. I use this one under the eyes

• Merit’s the Minimalist. Lighter than a foundation, more substantial than a concealer, and very easy to apply. Perfect

• Jones Road lip pencil. I fill in my whole lips with nude rose, which is very close to my natural colour, only more pigmented. I add a bit of Sonsie lip balm on top, and it hardly budges

• Laura Mercier translucent setting powder. Because let’s face it, it’s about to get shiny around here

Clothing

Linen everything

Linen’s durable, it’s natural, and it has great breathability. What’s not to love? Most of my summer suitcase is packed with big linen shirts, dresses, trousers, and tops. And when they inevitably get a bit creased? That just shows they’ve been lived in. For my top 19 brands that do linen very well, cast your eyes here.

A sarong/pareo

I bought this from Etsy last summer and wore it a lot. It was about £16, so a real steal (allow a week or two for shipping, as it comes from India). It’s 72 x 44 inches, so there’s plenty of fabric to play around with — I wore it mostly over swimwear, but I also wore it as a skirt with a loose linen shirt or T-shirt.

Easy co-ords

I’m a big fan of a co-ord. It’s the ultimate ‘no thought needed’ outfit, a real saviour on hot days, and it always has high impact. Plus, you can wear them as separates just as easily. I’d wear the above skirt with a simple tank, while the T-shirt looks great tucked into the waistband of these linen trousers*.

Boxer shorts

It took me a long time to find a style of shorts I liked wearing, and a couple of summers ago, I finally found The One: the boxer short. They have a cut that is loose on the leg without being baggy, and a length that is short enough to be leg-lengthening without having to worry that I’m flashing my bum cheeks. Plus, they’re just very easy to wear. WNU’s are my favourite, and come in lots of different colours.

Accessories

Raffia bag/basket

Essentially, the only bags I take away on a summer holiday because they’re so useful, robust, and go with everything. I’m a bit of a loyalist to this basket (I think this is my fourth summer with it), but this raffia bag comes in at a close second due to its size and unstructured flexibility.

Straw hat

I don’t spend a hot, sunny day without a straw hat if I can help it; give me sun safety over sun damage any day. I love this one from Lack of Color for its wide brims and cotton neck tie that helps keep it in place on breezy days — plus, it comes in varying sizes, which is excellent news if your head is smaller or larger (guilty) than average.

Jewellery

Chunky bangles, colourful beads, cord necklaces… I’ll always take a few pieces of organic, summer-centric jewellery that I can wear with all the clothing I’ve packed. I got this anklet last summer and barely took it off, so I’ll be bringing it out again this year. I’ve got my eye on this string of red beads, too, as well as this tortoiseshell hair clip for throwing my hair up poolside.

Footwear

Wear with everything sandals

Shoes can be some of the bulkiest items in a suitcase, so I like to pack a few pairs that can do a lot of heavy lifting. Comfortable enough to be worn all day and night, and versatile enough in design that they go with everything. These A. Emery sandals are it for me, but I also get a lot of wear out of these classic fisherman sandals.

Flip-flops

Yes, I know, hardly revolutionary. But they are useful, and I’m not just talking about any old flimsy rubber flip-flop here. I’m talking proper arch support for those of us in our 30s (and above), who spent our formative years in extremely inappropriate footwear. I’ll be packing my go-to pair from FitFlop, but I’ve also heard good things about Archies, so I’m considering a pair in another colour.

Swimwear

Another obvious one, but hey, it’s a must for this Pisces. I wrote a big guide to swimwear here (think briefs that cover your bum, one-pieces for long torsos, bikinis that don’t dig in, etc.), but for speed, here are my top brands for swim:

• Left On Friday

• JETS Australia

• Matteau

• Youswim

I haven’t tried it, but the Eres Asia swimsuit got high praise in my subscriber chat.

Misc.

Clothing care

I’ve had this Steamery steamer for a good few years now and use it on an almost daily basis. It’s a gentler way to remove wrinkles from fabric and helps lift any odours from your clothes, cutting down on washing and helping your pieces last longer.

Another Day from byMATTER is a bio-active fabric freshener that contains probiotics that neutralise odour-causing bacteria (rather than merely masking them like other fabric fresheners). I use it when travelling to revive clothing that’s been worn a few times — or spent too long at the bottom of my suitcase.

Fan

Small airports. Airbnbs with no air con. A little handheld fan is a necessity, baby, and because I’m old school (and like pretty things), I’ll be packing this emerald green bamboo fan I found on Etsy. Cool and chic.

Any items marked with * have been gifted by brands. All thoughts, picks and reviews are my own.

This post contains some affiliate links. If you buy something through those links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

In the cooler months, it’s slightly easier: we can find comfortable trainers and slot insoles into boots for extra support. But flip-flops and slides? You can’t exactly pop your insoles into them.

As someone who wore far too many silly shoes throughout my 20s, I’m at the ‘comfort or bust’ stage of life. I can wear non-supportive shoes for a while, but the throbbing I feel at the end of the day is rarely worth it. Give me a proper sole any day.

So, from my own collection and tried-and-tested research, here are 11 pairs of comfortable shoes to wear this summer (and beyond).

Merry People Lochie Sandals

If you’re familiar with Merry People, you may know them for their rain boots. I have a pair of ankle wellies that are a lifesaver on rainy days that don’t need a full, knee-length boot. But the Australian brand also does sandals, including this pair, which are waterproof, have adjustable cushioned straps, a slip-resistant outsole, and arch support. I’ve worn them a lot over the past week, and have relished in their breathability and comfort. True to size.

There are different websites for Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and the US. For other countries, global shipping is available from the Australia site.

Watch-outs: They’re quite chunky (the thickest part of the sole is 3.5cm), so if you’re looking for a slim and sleek shoe, these probably aren’t for you.

Teva Voya Infinity

I wrote a full review of these sandals last summer, but in short, they’re very well priced (£40 at the time of writing), very lightweight, and they manage to blend comfort with contemporary style in a way that’s difficult to achieve with footwear. I’ve worn mine for casual and more dressy occasions alike, and I never feel like I’m wearing a pair of Tevas.

Watch-outs: I find them quite narrow, so they’re not great if your feet are on the wider side. Also, the straps can be fiddly and take a bit of shimmying around to get them right.

Salomon RX Marie-Jeannes

Classic Mary Janes meets all the comfort and support of Salomon trainers — without looking like trainers. There’s a buckled strap across the front, good-traction soles, and they’re made from lightweight, breathable mesh with rubber trims. I’ve been wearing them with socks during the cooler months, but I’ll wear them the same way I’d wear Mary Janes in summer. And, reader, they’re very comfortable. I put them to the test during a walking-heavy trip to Barcelona and wrote a full review here.

Watch-outs: They come up small, so I went up half a size (very glad I did).

A. EMERY Jalen Sandals

I’ve spoken about these sandals a LOT (you may recognise them from my round-up of the 20 best wardrobe essentials). I bought them three summers ago, and I can’t begin to tell you how many times I’ve worn them since. They have a moulded (read: comfortable) footbed, suede straps that criss-cross the foot, and a gold buckle on the ankle strap to keep everything in place.

Watch-outs: The buckle around the ankle can be a bit uncomfortable at first, but they soon wear in.

Salt-Water Fisherman Sandals

Read more

When I look through my wardrobe, it’s a sea of navy, off-white, black, grey, brown, and khaki. It’s neutral heaven. They’re the colours I turn to the most and, fortunately for me, they all work well together, so I can have a truly versatile collection of clothes.

But over the past year, I’ve wanted to start playing with colour a bit more and experiment beyond my usual go-tos. So I’ve slowly added a red jumper here and a burnt-orange cardi there.

The pull is even stronger come the summer months. Stores are filled with ice cream pastels and bold, sunshiney brights. It’s tempting to dive headfirst into them all, but past mistakes have taught me that I’ll never actually wear these pieces. I need to remind myself that, no, my style doesn’t suddenly change the moment the temperature reaches above 21°C.

So, here’s everything I’ve learnt about incorporating more colour into a look when you’re more of a neutrals person, styling a few of the latest pieces from Beyond Nine. Think of it as a toe dip into colour, so you can still feel summery and more importantly, still feel like you.

Beyond Nine has kindly given me a 15% discount on all full-price items for all you lovely lot to use. This is available for first time purchases only. Use code ANGHARAD15 at checkout.

This discount code is available internationally. Duties and taxes are included for all customers in the EU, the US and Canada. Returns are also available for customers in these countries (and the UK, of course).

Tips for bringing more colour into your look:

• Balance it out with neutrals. A colourful pair of trousers, for example, with a black, white, or navy top

• Go for muted shades. A soft colour can be just as impactful as a bold one, but feels a little more accessible

• Start with accessories. Next time you go for an all-black or all-white outfit, add a colourful bag, necklace, neck scarf or stack of bangles

• Choose colours you naturally gravitate towards. I’m not really a pink person, so I avoid those pieces, but anything that’s blue or green? Sign me up

Look 1

Ok, navy may not fall into the “super colourful” box, but when it comes in a big check like the pattern of these trousers? It suddenly feels a lot more bold — without pushing me too far out of my comfort zone that I don’t feel good wearing it.

As the trousers are the statement piece, I’ve balanced them with neutrals in the rest of the outfit: a boxy, ecru-coloured, soft denim top, black flip-flops, and a black-and-red cord necklace.

Look 2

Here’s an example of how you can use muted shades as your “colour”. I wear khaki a lot, so it’s almost a neutral to me at this point, but when worn head-to-toe, it still makes a statement. Plus, it’s a shade that can be worn any time of year — I can see myself still wearing these trousers come autumn and winter.

Neutral accessories help balance the colour out, too. I use raffia or basket bags almost daily in summer because the texture is perfect for the season, plus they go with everything. Simple chocolate-brown flip-flops make a nice alternative to black, while the cream-and-brown bangles bring a fresh feel to the whole look.

Look 3

Yes, black is probably the most neutral of neutrals, but I’ve used accessories here to give the outfit that injection of “colour”. The gold necklace really stands out against the black backdrop, while the deep red bag adds a bold pop.

That’s the thing with a black dress — you can really do a lot with it. The voluminous skirt of this one means there’s space to add an extra layer underneath (cupro trousers in this case, to add a bit more to the silhouette), and it’s truly a blank canvas, so you can have fun with accessories, jewellery, and outerwear.

If you like the shape of this dress but want something bolder, it also comes in red.

Look 4

I mentioned earlier that I wear blue a lot, so I’ll always gravitate towards shades in this colour family. This jumpsuit is French navy, which is slightly more vibrant than true navy, without straying too far out of my comfort zone. It feels wearable to me, but it still feels like I’m wearing a good dose of summery colour.

Again, I’ve balanced it out with neutral accessories: that same raffia bag and chocolate-brown flip-flops as above, gold jewellery, and a toffee-and-navy scarf around the neck that adds a little something.

Look 5

Another example of pairing colour with a neutral. In this instance, it’s a pair of blue-and-green-striped trousers (my “safe” colours, if you will), worn with that same ecru-coloured denim top I’m wearing in look one above.

Balancing the trousers with a neutral allows me to wear colour without feeling like I’m not dressing as myself. While I’m all for experimenting, if I feel as though I’m wearing something that’s a huge departure from my norm, I start to feel (and look) uncomfortable.

I’ve gone for simple silver jewellery here, but you could add more colour with a string of green beads or a bolder blue pendant.

TLDR; you can wear colour if you want to, even if you normally avoid it. Just do it in a way that works for you.

Any items marked with * have been gifted by brands. All thoughts, picks and reviews are my own.

This post contains some affiliate links. If you buy something through those links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

So, I’ve gathered my favourite pieces from the internet that can work in lots of different situations. And because I’m a big believer that accessories and a few styling tweaks can be as effective as a new piece of clothing, I’ve included an edit of those too.

Clothing

I recently got this T-shirt and skirt duo from Soeur*, and it’s proving to be a very easy yet effective outfit when I want to take things up a notch. They’re both made from 100% organic cotton, so they’re comfortable to wear and create a really nice silhouette when paired together. Just add your favourite jewellery and you’ve got an easy look that will work for the office and for drinks afterwards.

first alerted me to House of Dagmar's new collection, and it’s a goodie. I was immediately drawn to this top, with its voluminous fit and gathered sleeves — it’s the perfect blend of minimalism and impact-making. Wear it with a stack of cuffs on the wrist, and either the matching trousers or bottoms in a contrasting colour, and you’re good to go.

Amayi is a London-based brand that creates limited-edition pieces, and once they’re gone, they’re gone. These trousers are 100% silk and feature a hand-drawn patchwork print. I love a statement pair of trousers, because they can do a lot of heavy lifting. Go for a co-ord like the one in the image above, or tuck an oversized white shirt into the waistband when you want to tone things down a little. Both work equally as well.

A good top can be all it takes to make a good outfit a slightly fancier one, and that includes a not-so-humble cotton shirt. This one from Dries Van Noten (currently 50% off) has a high neck, ties at the back that can be left loose or whipped up into a bow, and long, statement cuffs. Simple, straight-leg trousers and flip-flops or flats are all it needs. And maybe a bold lip.

I love a versatile piece, and this 100% silk dress does a lot in the multi-styling stakes. Button it all the way to the top, and you’ve got a neat, tailored dress. Unbutton it, and you’ve got something a little looser, a little sexier. Its loose, flowing fabric makes it perfect for layering over trousers (I like the idea of it with these), but it works just as well on its own.

If you live in the UK (or somewhere with a similar climate), there’s a high chance you’re going to need a good cover-up wherever you’re off to this summer. This one from Chan Luu is made from 100% cotton organdy (a sheer, lightweight fabric) and is embellished with curled sequins. The best bit? This is really a hero piece, so the rest of the outfit can be very simple — a loose black dress, perhaps, or simply a black tank and trousers. Note that for orders outside the US, customs and taxes are not included.

Soft, pleated, high-waisted, tapered… these trousers, made from voile, are perfect for slinky summer evenings, and are special enough for those occasions when you want to make a bit more of an effort. Wear with a long black or white top, barely-there sandals, a little silk bag, and a long necklace.

There’s a lot you can do with an oversized dress. Wear it as shown with a big necklace, hair pulled back into a low bun, and a soft bag tucked under your arm. Or get creative with layers — the volume of it means there’s plenty of space — with slinky cupro trousers underneath, and a light taffeta coat on top.

I shared this dress in my linen edit last week, and honestly, it’s too good not to share again. I recently added it to my wardrobe, and I can already see it being a staple this summer: a classic shift that can be worn in multiple ways (get your usual size). Wear it on its own or layer it over the matching cigarette trousers for a little more coverage. Then, get creative with jewellery. A big cuff or a brooch would work wonders.

There’s nothing quite like floaty, 100% silk to make you feel like you’re wearing something fancy(ish). From Róhe, these navy trousers have a wide leg and an elasticated waistband (hellooo comfort), while the earthy brown top has a loose fit and a scoop neck. A dreamy colour combination and an easy, low-effort look. Just add jewellery — this necklace from Monica Vinader is similar to the one in the image above.

Jewellery

A good pair of statement earrings can take a simple black dress from an everyday basic to a piece that’s worthy of a special date in the diary. This pair is made from coconut wood and brass; a nice blend of zhush and organic summer textures.

I love a piece of jewellery with a bit of texture, especially for summer. It feels a bit more easygoing, less polished, which suits these warm, carefree months perfectly. This necklace is made from 100% recycled gold vermeil and is inspired by the tiny shells and stones found on the shoreline. There are also matching earrings, bracelets, and rings.

A cord necklace with a colourful pendant can do a lot to lift an outfit — especially when it peeks through the open collar of a shirt, like in the image above. Wear it with a linen shirt and trousers and a colourful bag, and you’ve got an outfit that’s effortless but very effective for dinner dates.

Like a colourful necklace, a big cuff (or stack of cuffs) can do a lot for a simple outfit. I love resin for summer because it feels a touch more organic and relaxed, but gold looks beautiful on a sunny day, too.

Proof that you can dabble in florals in summer, without having to wear a flowery dress. This ring is inspired by a calla lily and fits across two fingers, making a real statement. This with a shift dress and sandals? Summer perfection.

I got this cuff last summer, and I loved how it looked on a bare arm — and how it gave my black dresses a much-needed lift for evenings out. It’s an easy addition to “regular” outfits, but totally effective when you want to put a little more effort in.

Footwear

I don’t often wear heels these days, but at 1.25 inches, this pair is very wearable — and gives just enough lift on trousers that are a touch too long, or dresses that could do with a little height. The espresso colour is a nice alternative to black, and will go with everything, too.

Barely-there, simple sandals that are perfect for an “occasion” (fancy or otherwise) because they’re so sleek and in chocolate brown, they go with everything. I actually wore these for my wedding last year (minus the silver embellishments), and they were incredibly comfortable — even at 2am on the dancefloor.

I love a colourful shoe. If you’re more of a neutral dresser, it’s the perfect way of bringing another dimension into a look, which works particularly well when you want to make a bit more of an effort. This pair is made from supple leather and, though pricy for flats, is very well made and comfortable.

I’ve had A. EMERY’s Jalen sandals for a few years, and have worn them with everything and everywhere — the quality suede makes them feel special enough for dinner, drinks, garden parties and the like. This pair is a slight update on that style, in a deep forest green colour that would look striking against off-white.

Yup, another pair of colourful ballerinas, but they really can do a lot — plus, this light blue shade feels fresh and cool for summer; the perfect pairing with black, grey, navy, white, red, brown… you name it. This pair is made from supple Italian nappa leather and made by hand in Tuscany.

Accessories

This bag can be worn on the shoulder, cross-body, or by hand; the slinky chain is removable. It’s elegant and smart without being too “occasion-y” like a clutch bag, and its dark brown colour means it will go with everything.

Whenever I feel like my outfit is missing something, I’ll try it with a little scarf around the neck. It’s a good way to add colour, texture, and a little print, turning what could be a seemingly basic outfit into one that you’d happily rock up to the theatre in. This one from TOAST is a mix of mustard and light blue, so it’ll jazz up black, white and navy no end.

For evening events, you might want something a little extra to keep the cool night air off. I have this cashmere wrap* and I’ve found myself draping it over shirts and bare shoulders when the temperature starts to drop. It’s made from a silk-cashmere blend, so it feels delightful to wear, plus it’s not too thick or heavy. It’s not just functional either — wrap it around your shoulders and pin it in place with a brooch, and you can completely update an outfit’s silhouette.

I love a raffia bag in summer, but for special-ish occasions, sometimes you want something a little more refined. This crescent moon bag from Strathberry ticks both boxes. It has a sculpted silhouette and gold hardware, taking the classic raffia up a notch, and yep, it’s big enough for phones, keys, wallets, and your favourite lipstick.

A great bag can do a lot to make an outfit more interesting, and this geometric ‘Wonton’ beauty from Yuzefi will certainly be a talking point. It’s handcrafted from nutmeg-coloured suede and has a structured base so you can pop it down without it flopping about.

Like the cashmere wrap above, this 100% silk cape is an easy way to add a light layer and mix up your outfit’s silhouette. Pop it over a black dress or trousers and a tank, and you’ve got an elegant look that will work for loads of fancy-ish occasions. It also comes in navy and black, if cream isn’t really your thing.

Any items marked with * have been gifted by brands. All thoughts, picks and reviews are my own.

This post contains some affiliate links. If you buy something through those links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

But, like with many fabrics, it's not all created equally. Some ‘linen’ pieces are actually a blend with synthetics, and likely won't have the same qualities or longevity as a piece that's 100% of the good stuff. Some are so see-through that they're unwearable unless you’re going for a beach cover-up or that sheer look. And some just don't hold up after a few wears.

So, I've pulled together my top 19 brands that create excellent linen pieces, all tried, tested, and tested again.

Criteria for good linen:

• 100% linen

• Lightweight but not see-through

• Retains shape through multiple wears and washes

• Pieces still look decent when slightly crushed

• Versatile for different styling/occasions

• Preferably machine-washable (who wants to hand-wash when they’re on holiday?)

Beyond Nine

Regular readers will have seen me wear and mention Beyond Nine multiple times. Its pieces are designed to adapt to changing bodies (think loose, boxy tops and trousers with comfortable elasticated waistbands), and its excellent shapes and fabrics make every outfit interesting. The linen pieces are fantastic — almost always made in the UK from 100% Oeko-Tex linen — and thick enough not to have to worry about anything being see-through.

Calm Amongst the Chaos

A British brand with a small team that designs and makes every item to order, using natural fabrics, including linen. Proportions are oversized, silhouettes are genuinely interesting, and each piece can be dressed up or down easily, depending on the occasion. One of my favourite outfits is the floaty green linen two-piece shown in the image above.

Casa Raki

This small brand is sadly about to close down, with all items now up to 30% off. It’s based in London, with clothing made ethically in Portugal. This is “summer wear” at its finest: big linen shirts, wrap skirts and roomy dresses. I love the look of this long linen top for a versatile summer layer.

DISSH

The Aussie brand that does very good summer wear, but you can get a fair few pieces that work outside of high temperatures and endless sunshine, too. There are plenty of 100% linen pieces made for holiday wardrobes — I love the look of this deep, earthy red mini dress, which is currently 30% off.

Etnodim

This Kyiv-based brand creates contemporary embroidered clothing, often based on traditional Ukrainian designs, stories and history. Like this shirt, whose design takes references from residents of an apartment block built especially for writers in Kharkiv called Slovo House in the 1920s and ‘30s, many of whom were later arrested and killed by the Communist authorities. The linen is quite heavyweight, so it may be too thick for super hot days, but it’s nice and hardy.

Jennifer Slattery

Jennifer Slattery is a Dublin-based brand that creates oversized Irish linen shirts, dresses, jackets, and more. If you’re looking for a roomy linen shift dress that has a little something extra, this one may be for you. There’s also a good selection of embroidered table linens, which can be personalised.

Kindred of Ireland

Another small Irish linen brand, based in Belfast. The brand works with family-run mills across Ireland and uses artisanal methods to create its pieces. As for the designs, its collection is full of shapes and silhouettes you won’t find elsewhere. These sculptural trousers look exceptional.

Lanefortyfive

Lanefortyfive is a London-based, made-to-order unisex clothing brand with excellent shapes and a touch of utilitarian detail. A good place to go for casual suits, too. The linen is hardy, retains its shape and isn’t see-through — I wore a white linen suit to my civil wedding ceremony last year, so I’m speaking from experience. Code ANGJ10 will get you 10% off.

Louisa Charlotte Oates

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