The Summer Spree: A buyer's guide to this season's top picks
Buyers for five of the UK’s highest-profile stores offer their picks for the key summer wears to see you through to autumn
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Your support makes all the difference.Laura Larbalestier, Buying Director, Browns
Slide Sandal
“The essential sandal for summer is definitely the slide. My favourite is the Maryam Nassir Zadeh ‘Sophie’, which comes in gorgeous shades of blue and pink. They’re perfect for wearing throughout the summer months – they look just as good pool side as they do styled with a pair of jeans.”
The Kaftan Cometh
“Mira Mikati’s kaftan is the perfect item for your wardrobe which is a bit of fun and the perfect addition to any getaway wardrobe.”
The Witty T-Shirt
“Who doesn’t love a holiday? The screen printed sweaters and tees from Holiday – the travel magazine-turned-clothing brand's sought-after capsule collection – are a summer essential at an affordable price.”
Deborah Gale, Ladieswear Buyer, Flannels
The Print Maxi-Dress
“The spring 2016 Dolce & Gabbana collection as always, pays homage to the designers’ Italian roots featuring an array of prints and flattering designs. This lemon print off-the-shoulder dress is one of my favourite dresses from the collection. It’s the perfect piece to pack for your summer holiday and would make for a gorgeous evening outfit.”
Lace Day
“Self-Portrait has been so well received recently so we couldn't wait to introduce the brand to Flannels and Cruise for spring/summer 2016. The Azaelea dress has been a firm favourite for the brand for the last couple of seasons and has already been spotted on celebrities such as Miranda Kerr. This is an ideal occasion wear dress and is perfect for the spring/summer wedding season.”
Colour-Pop Sandals
“If you are looking for a statement making shoe for summer, look no further than these heeled sandals from Giuseppe Zanotti. Already spotted on celebrities such as Gigi Hadid, these shoes are guaranteed to complete any outfit with their on trend cobalt colour and perspex strap detail.”
Natalie Kingham, Buying Director, matchesfashion.com
The Oversized Bomber
“I love coats and jackets and you never know when you need one. For summer you want something effortlessly cool that you can throw over dresses or jeans and this Vetements one will never date and feels new due to the clever fit.”
Unleash the Boho
"The Japanese floral tiered dress is super feminine and when it's summer I embrace my secret boho side! Though you can toughen it up with the bomber thrown over it or with a more masculine sandal."
Bags of Fun
“It’s summer – I want to wear something fun and optimistic (even if it’s raining constantly!)."
Holly Russell, Senior Buyer, net-a-porter.com
The Summer Maxi Dress
“The maxi dress has become a permanent fixture in my summer wardrobe. They are universally flattering, feminine and a great choice for holidays. This season is all about maximalism, so the brighter and more colourful the dress is the better. My go-to designer for this is Etro; they are the best for creating bohemian floor-sweeping dresses in beautiful prints.”
The Cropped Kick-Flare Jean
“The cropped kick-flare jean is a key silhouette this season and one of my favourites. You can wear them with an off-the-shoulder summery top and sandals for casual evenings on holiday or with a blouse and loafers for more laid-back off-duty days at home. I love MIH’s “Lou” jeans, they’re a modern take on the 70s and the frayed hem finish is bang on trend. Marques Almeida, J Brand, Steve J & Yoni P and Frame Denim all offer great kick-flare styles in a myriad of different washes."
The Artisinal Sandal
“The artisanal sandal is the sandal for spring/summer 2016. It’s all about embracing pom poms, tassels, feathers, braids, embellishments and embroidery for your feet. Top of my wishlist are Sam Edelman’s ‘Gere’ nubuck sandals and No. 21’s embellished burgundy version. Ancient Greek Sandals have a great offering and have collaborated with Mexican label, Caravana, to create a collection that has been handcrafted by artisans in Tulum using traditional techniques. Mabu by Maria BK’s selection of pom pom lace-up sandals will add a playful finish to any outfit.”
Judd Crane, Selfridges’ Director of Womenswear, Accessories & Kids Buying & Merchandising, Selfridges
Transseasonal Transparency
“Nobody does summer eveningwear like Han Chong. His label, Self Portrait, offers a myriad of exquisite options and regular newness throughout the season. The intricate detailing, mix of fabrics and distinctive silhouette in his designs has built Self Portrait’s reputation as the go-to label for on-point occasion wear. This white, light-weight midi dress in sheer fabric is perfect for summer parties or evenings by the beach.”
Stripes On Stripes
“We’re big fans of Alessandro Michele’s eclectic style and his Pre-Fall 2016 collection for Gucci has just landed in store. This striped black and pink sweater is perfect for those colder nights. I love the lurex striped scarf, too.”
Micro-Bags
“The rise of the mini-bag continues apace this season. The charm bag “Serpenti Forever” by Bulgari in yellow citrine calf leather is distinctive and precious – true luxury realised in a way that appeals to a woman who wants to stand out.“
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