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If May is technically the end of spring, then June is officially the start of summer. Whether or not the weather permits us to live out our lazy, hazy fantasies, our minds have started to run wild at the prospect of summer weekends. From bounding down BBQ-scented streets to ice-cold tinnies in the park, summer is well and truly within our grasp.
The arrival of a new season begs many questions. Will we actually book the heavily discussed weekend away or — better still — finally secure a reservation at the chic wine bar that’s been busy since February? Even without meticulous planning, the most intoxicating thing about summer is that special moments can be stumbled upon just about anywhere.
And if June fails to bring us the clear skies we crave, at least we have the joy of knowing that summer fashion is rarely beaten. From brightly coloured strappy sandals to perfectly patterned cowboy boots, scroll on to discover all the clothes and accessories on R29’s wish lists this month…
Refinery29’s selection is purely editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items we love! As part of our business model we do work with affiliates; if you directly purchase something from a link on this article, we may earn a small amount of commission. Transparency is important to us at Refinery29, if you have any questions please reach out to us. Ebony-Renee Baker, Fashion EditorYou’ve heard of wearing your heart on your sleeve but what about your heart on your finger? I’ve loved Rat Betty – consisting of a small team which hand-makes its jewellery in Brighton – for years and I particularly love the perfect imperfection of this tiny heart.
Rat Betty Tiny Heart Band Ring, $, available at Rat BettyHeading into summer, my radar for chic sunglasses is off the charts. This pair from MessyWeekend is a fun pop of colour that will go perfectly with my bikini and margarita by the pool all summer. And that, my friends, is called manifestation.
Messy Weekend Grace, $, available at Messy WeekendI tend to carry my laptop around in one of my many canvas tote bags but this ’70s-style tote is THE upgrade I need, especially as we enter the summer of a million plans. From the office to after-work dinners to rooftop drinks, no one is going to guess I’ve got my laptop – and deodorant and perfume and hay fever meds, etc. – shoved in there.
St. Agni Brown Thin Weave Leather Tote Bag, $, available at BrownsEsther Newman, Affiliate WriterOne step closer to my dream of becoming a real-life mermaid.
MandalaGems Seashell Compact, $, available at EtsySure, at £66 for a simple T-shirt, you’re probably thinking, Esther, are you crazy? You’re right to be sceptical but I’m just a simple gal with simple obsessions. If Harry Styles releases a new Pleasing collection, you best believe it’s on my wish list.
Pleasing The Pleasing Pollinators Tee in Purple, $, available at PleasingThis is it, my dream dress. The Old Hollywood star silhouette that hugs your curves, the vintage-inspired lace neckline, the delicate strawberry embroidery… I’m in love!
Rouje Dune Dress, $, available at RoujeNot only does this feature my favourite flowers and remind me of my favourite Harry Styles song (“Sunflower, Vol. 6” for those who are yet to listen to Fine Line – seriously, what are you waiting for?) but it would be the perfect farmers’ market bag. Just imagine toting your baguette or fresh flowers around in this. Adorable!
Daisy Street Tote bag in sunflower crochet design, $, available at ASOSThey’re simple, elegant, work for day and night while on holiday and – most importantly, as someone with weak ankles – have an elasticated strap to keep you comfy and secure.
Vagabond Tia Sandals, $, available at VagabondI know this dress is far from practical but the butterfly clip-loving, Flower Fairies-reading ‘90s kid in me has. To. Have. It!
Mirae Livi Butterfly, $, available at MiraeVicky Spratt, Features EditorI’m a huge Charli XCX fan, okay. And it’s summer, which means I need to wear a hat to protect my face from the sun. The only logical thing to do? Combine the two with this bit of new Charli merch.
Charli XCX New Shapes Black Hat, $, available at Charli XCXI’m looking for a practical bag that is neither too big nor too small for long walks and nights out. This Ganni version could be just what I’m after!
Ganni Vertical Festival Bag, $, available at GanniI am obsessed with these super simple mules from Camper, which would get me comfortably through the summer.
Camper Kaah, $, available at CamperMaybelle Morgan, Entertainment EditorJewellery should be about having fun and inspiring a double take. These strange glass earrings do the trick.
COS Twisted Glass Drop Earrings, $, available at COSNarrow, ’90s-style shades get a thumbs up from me this summer. I like the mysterious purple tint on these and the almost aggressively chunky frame.
HOT FUTURES Cosmic Rebel, $, available at Hot FuturesI bought my first Paloma Wool dress the other day and now I’m consumed by thoughts of the brand. This stretchy and flattering maxi is literally in my basket right now. I love that the print kind of looks like a super zoomed-in orchid. Summer personified.
Paloma Wool Blossom Print Dress, $, available at Paloma WoolSadhbh O’Sullivan, Health & Living EditorAny bag I can pack into itself is a bag I’m on board with.
Baggu Patchwork Floral, $, available at Keep and MindThis is such a great crop top to work out in – it’s comfortable, it’s fitted and supportive but not restricting, and it’s a delicious olive colour. Perfect for running in the heat when paired with a sports bra, or I’ve successfully worn it alone when doing weights/circuits.
Organic Basics Active Crop Top, $, available at Organic BasicsI’m working on a book club with Rixo over the summer which has led to me scrolling their site and falling deep into their denim collection. This waistcoat and skirt set has my heart but the skirt in particular, with the braided detailing? I love.
Rixo London Maxine Denim Skirt, $, available at RixoAlicia Lansom, Editorial AssistantIt’s finally looking like shoulder season! Strapless tops are my new summer uniform.
Topshop Co Ord Stripe Denim Corset in Washed Black, $, available at TopshopOkay, I know what I just said but in case the British weather decides to be unpredictable, I’m also keeping a cool-coloured trench nearby.
Jovonna London Juni Trench, $, available at Jovonna LondonFor accessories, I’m looking to Reformation’s newly launched line of handbags. Because who doesn’t want a perfectly proportioned pink purse?
Reformation Mini Rosetta Shoulder Bag, $, available at ReformationFestival season is here bby! Finding a perfectly sized bum bag is a hard feat but this Damson Madder design might just be the answer. Big enough to carry a water bottle, phone and mid-gig snack.
Damson Madder Black Cross Body Bumbag, $, available at Damson MadderI’ve wanted a simple signet ring for the longest time and this gold band is the perfect accompaniment to every summer outfit I have my eye on.
Galleria Armadoro Lara band gold vermeil ring, $, available at Galleria ArmadoroAfter two years, Glastonbury is finally back on track. As much as I’m crossing all my fingers and toes for glorious uninterrupted sunshine, I will be hedging my bets and investing in a quality pair of wellies in case of (v. likely) weather disaster.
Barbour Abbey Wellington Boots, $, available at BarbourKristine Romano, Associate Photo & Design EditorI love the look of a simple white tank in the summer but always struggle to find the right bra to wear underneath. I don’t like most bras to begin with so I’d much prefer something with built-in coverage and this square-neck top from Uniqlo is just perfect!
Uniqlo Airism Cotton Cropped Sleeveless Bra Top, $, available at UniqloI’ve been on the hunt for a timeless casual black dress that can see me through the seasons and I think this one is a winner. The tie at the neckline, the shirred detailing and tiered skirt are the kinds of details that make it for me.
Urban Outfitters UO Ella Linen Midi Dress, $, available at Urban OutfittersI’m not much of a heel wearer but I’m very drawn to these strappy sandals from Vagabond and can actually see myself wearing them more casually. I also just love the pop of colour these would bring to any outfit.
Vagabond Hennie Sandals, $, available at VagabondJacqueline Kilikita, Beauty EditorSusan Devaney, Life DirectorA white T-shirt is my go-to staple. It has to be loose, airy and oversized — preferably paired with Levi’s and stacked gold chains. I always head to the men’s section for the best cut but this iteration from Arket’s women’s department, made from a heavyweight cotton weave, is set to become my newfound favourite.
Arket Heavyweight T-Shirt, $, available at ArketFrom Cecilie Bahnsen and Totême to Tove, my list of Scandi designers that I simply can’t get enough of keeps growing. I love minimalist design with a Scandi touch. Is it any wonder, then, that I’ve been lusting after Stine Goya’s pre-fall 2023 collection? For me, the Juno blouse is the hero piece from the Danish designer’s latest lineup.
Stine Goya Juno Blouse – Logo, $, available at Stine GoyaSummer is upon us, bringing with it rising heat and warmer nights. Instead of reaching for shorts and a T-shirt for bedtime, I love wearing a pair of light cotton pyjamas. Eberjey’s striped 100% cotton style, made without any harmful chemicals or dyes, looks simply perfect to me.
Eberjey Organic Sandwashed Cotton Woven Long PJ Set, $, available at EberjeyKelly Washington, Social EditorPockets, pockets, pockets! If I can have my phone, wallet and lippy on me at all times (hands-free), I’m sold. I’ve recently started wearing longer cotton boxer shorts (a style I used to turn my nose up at) and honestly, I’m a changed woman. Comfort is key for summer 2023. What used to feel boyish feels feminine and elegant, especially when paired with a crop top or bikini at a beach festival. This colour is to die for; add the textured jacquard blazer, chunky gold or silver jewellery and sandals for a dinner date.
Damson Madder Textured Woven Green Short, $, available at Damson MadderNo one does summer ‘fits like Free People. Continuing the effortlessly chic vibe, this midi skirt has a low-rise fit, a tiered silhouette and elastic waistband that will make you feel like a floaty, ethereal, Glastonbury goddess. And guess what? More secret pockets.
Free People In Full Swing Midi Skirt, $, available at Free PeopleThe hottest cowboy boots I’ve seen, this pair is firmly on the wish list. Toral’s playful, multicoloured block design in pink, red and blue reminds me of Cowgirl Barbie, boasting a colour combo I haven’t seen anywhere else. Pair with baggy cargo jeans, a white vest and a leather motorcycle jacket. I know what I’m wearing to the cinema when the Barbie movie drops later this year.
Toral Multicoloured Boots, $, available at SeezonaJess Morgan, Staff WriterI walked past this store in Spitalfields the other week and I realised that I don’t need anything other than these lilac gingham trousers. They just inject so much joy!
Ost London Gingham Trousers, $, available at Ost LondonSummer is right around the corner, which means it’s open-toe sandal time. And if it gets a bit chillier, these would still look great with a pair of brightly coloured cashmere socks.
Kickers Women’s Knox Low Buckle, $, available at KickersIf, like me, you’re actually excited to return to the office (come on, let’s be real, we miss socialising! The free Thursday bar! The air-con!) then you’ll know that just like the start of a school term, we need new stationery and new bags. This super practical and stylish Away backpack ticks all the boxes: it fits your laptop, keys, diaries, phone and all the important bits you need to carry with you on your commute to work. I need it…expeditiously.
Away Backpack, $, available at AwayAlicia Lansom, Editorial AssistantNo matter how hard I try, every pair of shoes I buy is black. In order to lighten things up for the summer, I’m investing in some neutral slides (let’s not mention the chunky black sole, shall we?).
Mango Leather Sandals With Straps, $, available at MangoI really love the look of beaded jewellery. This pearl necklace is exactly the sort of thing I’ve been looking for, adding a drop of colour to everyday looks.
Astrid & Miyu Semi-Precious Rainbow Necklace in Gold, $, available at Astrid & MiyuThe exposed back, the light fabric, the cut-out sides = divine.
Pixie Market Beatrice Black Linen Dress, $, available at Pixie MarketAnna Jay, Art DirectorI love a little piece like this which just adds a bit of a boost to any look.
Arket Seersucker Scrunchie, $, available at ArketI feel like I’m going to be wearing these all summer. The elastic waist is an absolute win, and a breezy cotton/linen mix is made for summer days (when they finally arrive).
COS Cotton-linen Shorts, $, available at COSFor a summer of UK holidays, I’m bracing myself for all weathers with this light rain mac, which is ideal for layering.
Finisterre The Rainbird Waterproof, $, available at FinisterreI spotted these barbed wire hoops on Instagram and now I have to have them. I’ve started wearing my hair in a messy bun a lot more lately but I feel a bit naked with my hair up. These are the perfect addition (and they’re pretty metal).
Break Out Jewellery Gold Barbed Wire Hoop Earrings, $, available at Break Out JewelleryLet’s be real: British weather will always mess us around so I need something cute and cosy for chilly summer nights in pub gardens. This knit isn’t too chunky or too light and fits the bill perfectly. You can switch up the style of the neckline by popping the buttons.
Sézane Jumper In Camel, $, available at SézaneI only started wearing dresses last year but I’d love to expand my summer collection. I’m not a fan of floral print or much colour, so this black linen dress is the one. I’m into the side split, fitted bodice and pretty ruched sleeves.
Reformation Linen Dress, $, available at ReformationSocks and sandals season is near and I couldn’t be more ready if I tried! These speckled socks are a nice departure from classic black and will pair nicely with my fisherman sandals.
Muji Right Angle Slub Yarn Socks, $, available at MujiI’ve been looking to invest in some quality basics and love Rawson’s vintage and deadstock pieces. The ribbed material looks soft and comfortable but the long sleeves are what make this tee a real winner in my eyes.
RAWSONSTUDIO The Berlin Tee, $, available at EtsyA sweet dress for summer! I would pair this with some chunky trainers and be out the door.
Uniqlo x Marimekko Marimekko Denim Camisole Dress, $, available at UniqloSadhbh O’Sullivan, Health & Living WriterI’ve reached a point with my white T-shirts where they are now so old and worn that no amount of Vanish can bring them back to their original glory. So I want a new one, like this: crisp, the perfect shape and sustainably made.
Teym The T-Shirt, $, available at TeymI’m really enjoying the resurgence of Edwardian and Victorian-style blouses with their lace inserts and high collars. There’s no way I could afford one from the period but, luckily for me, the ’70s and ’80s had a real Edwardiana moment. This piece from the ’80s is beaut – I’d pair with tapered trousers, straight-leg jeans or under a pinafore dress for a vaguely put-together workwear look.
GoingAroundAgain Embroidered High Neck White Cotton Blouse, $, available at EtsyI love this new brand launched by Danish knitwear designer Mie Firring – bringing knitwear back to functional basics while making the kits accessible for all skill levels. I particularly love the biker pants. Perfect for my cosplay as a fifth, cosy member of Italy’s Eurovision winners.
Boring Knit Boring Biker Pants, $, available at Boring KnitVicky Spratt, Features EditorAn Issey Miyake-esque top? At a reasonable price point? Don’t mind if I do.
COS Crinkled Top, $, available at COSThe quest for the perfect tank top continues. New to the top of my leaderboard: this perfect Toteme number.
Toteme Espera Organic-cotton Blend Jersey Tank Top, $, available at MatchesFashionI need some new reading and writing glasses because, well, the last year of Zoom has taken its toll. I am currently mulling over a few options but I can’t stop thinking about these (slightly over the top) Linda Farrow frames. They remind me of the ones Kathryn Hahn wears in How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days when she pretends to be a couples’ therapist. A vibe I can absolutely get on board with.
Linda Farrow Oversized Square Acetate Glasses, $, available at MatchesFashion
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Every Sandal Style You’re About To See This Summer
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