Summer dress style guide

Finally spring is here and that sweet call of a balmy summer is beckoning. These warmer months on the Suffolk coast present opportunities. Perhaps that’s finding a new walk along the sandy paths as the salty smell of the indestructible North Sea fills our nostrils. Maybe it’s the discovery of a new spot to take triangles of our favourite sandwiches and watch the fishermen’s boats. It could be the unearthing of a novel piece of local history that adds to the tapestry of life here on the coast.

The wardrobe seasonal swap

However you view the brighter, sunshine-filled months, if you’re anything like me you’ll be enthused by the chance to do some summer outfit planning! Finally the weighty layers of winter can be hurled aside and easy-to-wear dresses can take centre stage. My wardrobe ‘seasonal swap’ is a significant affair. When considering new additions I oscillate towards a mix of key classic, everyday pieces and a handful of ‘standout’ pieces that I can elevate, giving me that flexibility whether I’m enjoying a day by the sea or an alfresco evening drinks party. I’m a creature of comfort combined with style. Dare I say it, if my forty (odd) trips around the sun have taught me anything about summer dress styles, it’s that if it’s not going to provide me with a level of ‘easy going’ comfort, I might not be interested!

Dressing up a classic polo dress

The warmer weather encourages us to move more, just as the long days of winter can be cosy but rather listless! As spring turns to summer, there’s a certain energy in the air, and pieces like the St Ives Dress come into their own. From a stint on the tennis court to a beachside saunter, it’s a very sophisticated option, and I just adore the sky blue colour and lightweight, breathable fabric. It reminds me of the best kind of bright days. I’ve teamed mine with my favourite kicks and cute ankle socks for a super preppy, effortless look.

Making linen dresses a summer staple

Our gardens are beginning to look abundant and the anticipation of vibrant flowers adorning our borders is growing. Spring, if it were a scent, would be cut grass mixed with those floral and fruity fragrances of pastures new. We begin to open our gardens to friends and family with offerings of drinks alfresco and seasonal fare. The Daisy Linen Dress in oat has the perfect special details, with an almost vintage vibe that I’m absolutely in love with. Perfectly tapered at the waist with a matching belt, which can be exchanged for your favourite leather option, it has the perfect swish to make you feel fabulous. I’ve paired mine with a cute Mary-Jane shoe, in keeping with that sweet vintage feel, and a hat to keep me cool and garden party ready!

A versatile favourite: the perfect day-to-night dress

Being outdoors for as many hours as possible will forever be my ‘better weather’ prerogative as I look to soak up that vitamin D and brilliant sunshine that always feels so long overdue. From strawberry picking to days at the beach and country pub lunches, here I’ve perfectly elevated the Olive Dress for drinks with the girls! This truly is the dress that works for any kind of adventure. The utility design is functional – but above all, it exudes a super-relaxed kind of style that looks effortlessly put together. The Olive Dress is 100% cotton, seriously soft, super forgiving and wonderfully floaty. Teamed with a brogue heel, this super dress can take me from day to night in a heartbeat! Add a head-band for extra va-va-voom and hey presto… Mine is a Pimms cocktail with plenty of ice!

Now, as I let out a tentative squeal of excitement that the weather has finally turned a very keen corner, my seasonal transition has begun. My super chic but timelessly classic capsule is underway, and oh my does that feel good!

Embrace the happy, long summer days my darlings, and soak up every single second!