Summer essentials

As the weather heats up you want to spend more time at the beach or a rooftop bar than stressing about what you're wearing.

So we've got you covered with our list of summer essentials…

Apparrel…
Summer dresses - notice the plural. Make this summer the summer of the dress and buy yourself a few different ones. Long or short, flowing or fitted - the options are literally endless.

A long black maxi dress is a great investment because it will easily take you from day to night. Dresses are seriously the easiest things to wear, just slip one on, chuck on some sandals and a few accessories and you're ready to go!

Shorts - you can't go wrong with a pair of shorts - denim, black or even white. Team with a blazer, heels and some killer jewellery and you're set for a night on the town. Brighter colours, like yellow or royal blue, are great for bbqs or a day at the beach.

While the trend seems to be for short, shorts, you don't have to go there. A pair of high-waisted denim shorts with a neat white singlet makes for a pretty classic look.
A blazer - navy blue, white or black. I have one of each now and they are brilliant.

A blazer will keep away the cool night air and instantly smartens up any outfit. Team with a pair of shorts and striped top for a nautical look, or just throw one over a summer dress. Country Road have a divine slim-line soft denim blazer that is absolutely perfect - I'm saving up.

Accessories…
Think big chunky jewellery and flowy silk scarves. Necklaces and bracelets are super big and chunky at the moment - look for oversized silver bracelets and bangles and long necklaces with bright embellishments. Scarves are long, silky and patterned and a quick way to add some colour to a plain outfit.

A bag - you know what's perfect for summer, a clutch that also has a strap. Like a convertible bag.

Good for night, but also handy for during the day when you want something a little more casual. Also, handy for all those summer music festivals. Sunglasses - is there a better summer accessory than a pair of shades?

They keep the sun out of your peepers, make you look good and are a saviour the morning after you've indulged in one too many cocktails.

I don't know why I've never done this before, but this year I've started buying multiple pairs to wear with different outfits.

This year the look is still big and wayfarers are still immensely popular, but there seems to be more colour about.

For the beach… invest in a great beach towel. Make sure it's big and of decent quality - it will last you forever and keep you comfortable at the beach and pool.
Get a great pair of bathers.

This year is all about nautical stripes, blues, whites and red detailing. Again, Country Road have some seriously cute little one-pieces.

Consider a hat. There are lots of them around at the moment and it's nice to have something shading your face when you're at the tennis.