5 Sophisticated Summer Basics from NET-A-PORTER to Add to Your Warm-Weather Wardrobe
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As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, my approach to dressing takes on a breezier and more carefree vibe. But whilst trends come and go, I prefer to rely on a few staples that are my summer wardrobe non-negotiables. From easy linen to relaxed bags, these are the pieces that add to my refined aesthetic whilst keeping me cool and comfortable during the hot days and balmy nights.
When it comes to building my summer wardrobe, NET-A-PORTER is always my go-to destination, because the luxury online retailer’s curated selection of sophisticated, wearable items never fails to impress. What’s on my capsule list this summer? Along with a linen dress, I’m also after a pair of elegant sandals, a neutral blazer for those cooler evenings and some chic yet versatile sunglasses to shield my eyes in style. And of course, no warm-weather ensemble is complete without summer’s It accessory—a basket bag.
With these pieces in my arsenal, the styling possibilities are endless. Whether I’m headed to a rooftop soirée or a leisurely brunch, taking a sunset stroll along the beach or even heading to work for a day in the Who What Wear UK office, these staples transition from one occasion to the next without a hitch. I love pairing a linen dress with sandals and a basket bag to create a simple daytime look, layering a neutral blazer over the top to add polish for an evening outing. And with the addition of thick-framed sunglasses, each summer outfit has that little touch of glamour that screams summer sophistication.
Keep scrolling for the five basics that are always in my classy summer wardrobe rotation.
Shop NET-A-PORTER’s Chic Summer Staples:
1. A Linen Dress
ZIMMERMANN
Halliday Cutout Scalloped Pintucked Floral-Print Linen Midi Dress
This floral design just screams summer, and I love that about this dress—when you wear it, there’s no mistaking that summer is here.
FAITHFULL THE BRAND
La Canella Shirred Checked Linen Midi Dress
I can see this styled with white ballet flats and a black crossbody bag for a classically chic look.
MOTHER OF PEARL
May Organic Cotton-Blend Seersucker Maxi Dress
The material and roomy fit are perfect for warm weather, not to mention the colour is to die for. We love a super-cute dress that’s practical too.
ULLA JOHNSON
Batista Cotton, Linen and Silk-Blend Poplin Midi Dress
Mark my words, you’re about to see black linen dresses everywhere this summer.
2. A Neutral Blazer
THE FRANKIE SHOP
Bea Crepe Blazer in Brown
The vast colour selection of this editor-loved blazer cements its iconic status—there’s a new shade every season.
A simple tank with a white linen midi skirt and this blazer draped over the shoulders would be one chic brunch outfit.
MOTHER OF PEARL
+ Net Sustain Tencel Lyocell-Blend Twill Blazer
I will always advocate for a beige blazer during the warmer months.
MAX MARA
Micron Pinstriped Linen and Cotton-Blend Blazer
The linen-cotton blend means zero sweaty patches.
3. A Basket Bag
LOEWE X Paula’s Ibiza
Leather-Trimmed Raffia Bucket Bag in Tan
It’s not officially summer for me until I’ve seen my first Loewe basket bag on the streets of London.
KHAITE
Olivia Medium Raffia Shoulder Bag in Beige
This bag looks deceptively small—the interior is actually pretty spacious without making it look too full—very Mary Poppins-esque.
ISABEL MARANT
Cadix Leather-Trimmed Raffia Tote
A black-mix basket bag to take a break from classic cream. I can think of so many outfits to pair this with.
STAUD
Moon Large Leather-Trimmed Raffia Tote
This bag has been on my wish list for some time, and I think it’s time to treat myself.
4. Simple Sandals
ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS
Chordi Braided Leather Sandals in Black
I have yet to find a pair of thin-strap sandals that are as comfy as Ancient Greek Sandals—the craftspersonship is just on another level. This Chordi braided pair will be a great buy.
BIRKENSTOCK 1774
Arizona Suede Sandals in Brown
No summer shoe rotation is complete without a pair of Birkenstocks. Love ’em or hate ’em, you can’t deny the comfort of these sandals.
A.EMERY
Jalen Slim Leather Sandals
It seems the internet has dubbed these the summer sandals to covet this year, at least that’s what our Instagram feeds are telling us.
STAUD
Dante Leather Thong Sandals in White
Sleek, simple and elegant. The minimalists will love these.
5. Classic Sunglasses
RAY-BAN
Large Aviator-Style Gold-Tone Sunglasses
I’ve never been a huge fan of aviator sunglasses, but even I can’t deny the appeal of these large, gold-toned Ray-Bans.
CELINE EYEWEAR
Triomphe Oversized Square-Frame Tortoiseshell Acetate Sunglasses
Sometimes a pair of tortoiseshell sunglasses is the only accessory you need for that effortlessly cool vibe.