Found in Issue No. 298
How To Dress For A Summer In The City
- Edited by
- Des Lewis
- Words by
- Frankie Graddon
The Co-Ord
By now, we’re all well versed in the versatility of a co-ord, but it’s worth taking note of what makes this particular style so invaluable for city summer dressing. Firstly, the longer length of short creates a smartly tailored effect, while still allowing breathability. A jacket will feel like overkill in summer’s peak, but a waistcoat has a light touch that still looks pulled together. Consider chocolate brown as a good seasonal alternative to black.
The Long-Length Dress
An ankle-grazing maxi is a high-summer classic, but it can easily be taken from holidaywear to city-ready with a few tweaks. Reach for a style with a sleek silhouette and minimal design details (leave ruffles, trims and print for beach days). Classic navy linen looks smart without feeling corporate and pairs just as well with denim and raffia in the day as it does sleek leather accessories for evening.
The Jorts
Jorts (jean shorts) are currently enjoying a renewed sense of relevance, so if you’ve yet to invest, now’s the time. Don’t confuse them with cut-offs – this is a much more refined take on cropped denim. The longer length makes them easier to wear in the city, too. Opt for a classic mid-wash and style them simply with sleek leather flats, a T-shirt and luxe bag.
The Lightweight Jacket
Navigating cover-ups in the summer can be a challenge – so here’s the effortless solution: the cotton swing jacket. The boxy, relaxed cut works equally well over the top of a sundress as it does with tailored trousers. Reach for a pale neutral, which pairs with both light and deep summer tones. For an easy day-to-day look, layer it over a white tank and linen trousers. Pick up on the utility aesthetic with fisherman sandals.
The Midi Skirt
There’s a lot of fun to be had with skirt styling this summer, be it experimenting with minis or restyling your maxis, but the midi shouldn’t be overlooked. This versatile length (which you no doubt already have in your wardrobe) is perfectly suited to a timeless city look. If you’re seeking to invest, try a pleated style, which has additional smart structure. Slides and a bucket hat add a cool edge.
The Polo Shirt
If you added a polo shirt to your wardrobe this spring, the good news is, you can wear it throughout summer, too. In fact, the preppy classic is a great alternative to T-shirts and tanks. While it’s a fail-safe casual formula worn with denim shorts, try taking it up a notch by styling it with an elegant slim skirt and leather flats. A peak of white under the collar creates an artfully layered look.