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Oh well hello there! Apologies for the brief unplanned hiatus on the blog-front. It turns out that creating a video everyday for the month of June, whilst juggling our other work engagements and entering my third trimester of pregnancy is an interesting mix and something had to give, but we’re back and cooking with gas (with the odd nap here and there). I thought today I’d cobble together some of my favourite things I’ve seen online whilst I’ve been scrolling that would be *top* of my wishlist right now if I could somehow manage to squeeze the little lad and myself into them. Prepare yourself for all the linens, neutrals galore and dresses because quite frankly, they are all I wear right now – waistbands are a thing of the past, along with being able to put my shoes on without assistance and seeing my toes…
ALL THE LINEN
It’s no secret that approximately 50% of my summer wardrobe at this point consists of linen. It’s breathable (sweat patches dry off in a matter of minutes – been there, tested that!), washes easily and there is nothing chicer than a linen two-piece in my eyes. Of course the quintessential two piece for me consists of the ARKET Oversized Shirt* and Elasticated Waistband Trousers* or Shorts*, but I’ve also been branching out. Dresses, skirts, jumpsuits – the possibilities are endless. Take for example this & Other Stories Wrap Linen Dress* – divine, right? – pair it with strappy heels and you could easily crack this out as a wedding guest look, or go for some chunky flat sandals and a big woven bag and you’re ready for something all the more casual. I also love the look of this COS Linen Wrap Jumpsuit* (which actually could work as a bit of a maternity piece?) and their Sleeveless Linen Jumpsuit*; both give off such a relaxed vibe and look like exactly what you need when a heatwave is on the cards. Cut-outs are having a moment and I’m feeling it. This & Other Stories Linen-Blend Cut-Out Mini Skirt* looks way more expensive than it actually is and would look great with a slightly cropped top, or you can remove the cut-out completely by tucking in an oversized shirt and having it billowing out the top. A good two-in-one.
SHOP THE EDIT*
SUMMER ACCESSORIES
To me it’s the summer accessories that really make an outfit actually feel summery. So much of my wardrobe are things that I’d wear year-round, so it’s the straw bag and sandals that add the cherry on the top and the HELLO IT’S ACTUALLY SUMMER signals. In the photos that accompany this post I’m wearing a gigantic basket bag from Wood/Grey (sadly now closed down, but this one* is similar) and my MANGO Quilted Sandals* (a midwife approved piece of footwear, lol!) – my top tip would be to size up in these as they come up a little small. Basically these days I’m either wearing these on my feet, or my Birkenstock EVA Sandals*. But if you’re after something a little less practical and a bit more fun, I’d point you in the direction of the MANGO Knot Heel Sandals*. These look so cute and although they are strappy, they aren’t particularly high so they don’t look a complete pain in the ass to walk in. In terms of bags, I just love a raffia bag. I spoke about my complete collection – that includes a little, medium and large option – in this video, but the good news is that the Loewe Pouchette Raffia Bag* is BACK IN STOCK FOR THE SUMMER! It’s my favourite designer summer bag and plus points for the fact that it zips. For something a little more affordable this ARKET Braided Straw Tote* is the one; it’s such a good carry-around everyday size.
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FANCY PIECES
I have to admit, this is the category that I’m yearning for right now. I’ve worn oversized smocks to the two weddings we’ve been to this year and the next one I’m lucky enough to attend, let me tell you – I’m going ALL OUT. I am ready for some fancy schmansy outfits in my life, even if it will realistically be next summer until my wish comes true – I’m starting my prep now. Top of my list? The Cult Gaia Cutout Cotton-Blend Maxi Dress* that you’ve probably seen plastered all over your Instagram feed. I mean, it’s not the most practical of pieces and it’s basically crying out to be worn on a hot-weather holiday, but it’s lush (and thankfully & Other Stories do a pretty decent dupe*). I’m also partial to a mini dress and the Cult Gaia Cutout Ribbed-Knit Mini Dress in Sage Green* looks like something special. Both of these styles are actually pretty similar to this Line By K One-Shoulder Ribbed Cotton Maxi Dress*, which really has the Cult Gaia-vibe, but is practically half the price. To go with your new swanky dress, you need some swanky shoes and the By Far Kersti Leather Sandals* are this year’s version of the Carrie style that I have from a few year’s back – they are brill and they go with everything. Once again & Other Stories come through with a dupe*!
SHOP THE EDIT*
Photos by Mark Newton
