How To Build A Summer Wardrobe

Summer style doesn’t have to be tank tops and flip-flops on endless rotation. We reach out to experts in the field, from luxury resort wear designers to ready-to-wear brands, to help us create a summer aesthetic, elevate our casual looks, and incorporate this year’s trends for a sublime seasonal wardrobe. Here’s what they had to say – plus with their summer lookbooks for extra inspiration.

MAKE IT LIGHT

Designers Natalie Knoll and Macayla Chapman, whose Bird & Knoll resort wear is inspired by Australian coastal living, suggest paying homage to the season’s hues and sense of freedom. “Using bold colour and wearing flattering silhouettes will show off that hint of sun-kissed skin,” says Chapman. In summer, fashion is all about embracing that laissez-faire attitude and expressing yourself through light, comfortable fabrics. 

From crisp whites exuding timeless elegance, to deep, bold reds offering a put-together polish, and elevated stripes bridging the gap between casual and sophisticated, the recent Bird & Knoll summer collection represents a universal summer aesthetic: comfortable fabrics, versatile day-to-night colour palettes, and flattering styles for a infinite mix-and-match possibilities. 

Unlike other seasons, summer style doesn’t rely on layering, so it’s important to create a capsule wardrobe with key pieces that’ll work on their own and for multiple occasions. For example, their Josephina shirt and Leti trousers make for a comfy travel look or a garden party ensemble, while their Frieda shirtdress works as a fancy beach cover-up or casual date night attire. To boost versatility, Chapman advises that “gold jewellery instantly elevates any ensemble, and the addition of a belt or statement shoe also can hero a look so easily.”

MAKE IT VERSATILE

The ideal summer wardrobe is multi-functional, and that’s something Colombian brand Agua Bendita excels at. Designers Catalina Álvarez and Mariana Hinestroza create looks that stand out for their timelessness and wearability – a breeze to style for any taste or occasion. Think: a beach cover-up that doubles as a chic skirt for day or night, matched with a white button-down. Or a reversible bathing suit that can be worn as a bodysuit with a pair of jeans for a boardwalk stroll. Or how about a holiday dress that’s equally suitable for a block party or a daytime summer wedding? Whether you’re island-hopping, city tripping or lounging at home, these pieces will work on repeat.

MAKE IT TIMELESS YET TRENDY

While a smart capsule wardrobe is all about having more high-quality, classic pieces that will stand the test of time, there’s also room for a couple of trends that make your wardrobe feel fresh. A good example? Contemporary British brand Rat & Boa.

While their summer collections include flattering silhouettes, timeless cuts and classic styles, they also infuse their lines with the latest trends for an updated touch. Following their lead, you could take a basic white t-shirt or knit vest and pair it with a sheer skirt, or choose a trending peek-a-boo suit instead of the usual cut for more modern formal attire. Alternatively, take inspiration from this year’s colour trends for a multipurpose slip-on dress that offers maximum style impact and long-term wearability.

MAKE A STATEMENT

NYC-based independent fashion label Tanya Taylor takes an artistic approach to style, moved by the city’s famed energy and creativity. As Taylor puts it, “summer styling brings out the colour in New Yorkers; women put on a splash of colour, or wear an interesting, textured skirt-and-tee shirt combo.” Having fun is what the season is all about. 

As for her advice? “I love unexpected details on classic silhouettes: a cotton poplin silhouette with a puff sleeve detail or a shift dress with gorgeous embellishments. I also love a coordinated set that can be worn from the office to night out.” Among her collection, playful, summer-perfect detailing includes feminine puff sleeves and decorative waist ties on a classic shirt dress; a fun print on a pair of straight-fit shorts; or a self-tie belt incorporated into a classic everyday denim dress. It’s all about making the simplest looks pop.

MAKE IT EASY

Known for her flowing fabrics, vibrant colours and playful silhouettes, Australian designer Shona Joy founded her eponymous label with three simple principles in mind: embracing effortless elegance, playing with prints, and adding pops of colour.

According to her philosophy, summer dressing calls for lightweight fabrics that effortlessly drape and move with the body, allowing you to stay comfortable and look chic under the sun. This oversized shirt and trousers combo defines such a combination of elegance and comfort. Go a step further and inject vibrancy into your wardrobe with bold prints, like with a head-to-toe printed shirt-and-trousers set. Or mix and match with a more neutral piece if you’re looking for textural balance. Lastly, add visual interest with vibrant sparks of colour. This chilli red skirt or lime mini dress provide the perfect contrast to sun-bronzed skin.

MAKE IT SUSTAINABLE

As it happens, the pursuit of timelessness and comfort aligns perfectly with sustainable fashion goals. 100% cotton, linens and bamboo are highly breathable and have moisture-wicking properties, meaning the garments will last for years of use – and prevent you having to replace them. By not feeding into the accelerated cycle of fast fashion, your seasonal wardrobe will consist of high-quality, long-lasting pieces that will not only be wearable for every possible occasion throughout the summer social season, but also throughout the years. 

For some inspiration – and a smart wardrobe investment – Ibiza-based resort wear brand Kalita has a wide collection of floor-length gowns, city playsuits and more catering to every summer sensibility. Plus, they’re designed with natural, eco-friendly materials and handmade by artisans in Bali. Take an elegant and ultra comfortable jumpsuit, a hand-crocheted beach dress, and a beautiful draped dress, and your summer holiday packing list for the coming years is set.

[Header image courtesy of Rat & Boa]