Forgetting a few minor hiccups along the way courtesy of Mr Weatherman, summer is well and truly on its way! Sleeves are getting shorter, dresses are getting floatier and, as lockdown lifts, we’re ready to put our best foot forward as spring turns into summer.
We’ve highlighted some of our favourite looks from the spring summer runways to inspire you – from key transitional pieces for chillier days, to full-blown summer styles. One thing is for certain: low-key is last season and we're looking forward to putting some oomph back into our fashion choices! Check out our top six fashion trends for spring/summer '21 below.
It might seem like the safe option, but London Fashion Week showcased just how magic monochrome can be. As well as classic Breton stripes and colour blocking, you can also rock a monochromatic look with colour-pop detailing, such as a dramatic black bag with an all white ensemble.
Or why not go off piste and introduce a different splash of colour, such as summery pastel accessories; or mix-and-matching different textures and tones. Either way, there are plenty of ways to make this look your own!
Pictured: Clarks | Polo Ralph Lauren | Armani
Nothing says summer-ready quite like a soft, pastel palette. We’re talking sky blue, mint green, cherry-blossom pink and pale daffodil yellow, complemented by stark-white accessories.
Take a look at Tommy Hilfiger’s SS21 collection for fresh inspiration, which is packed with perfectly preppy threads for the tennis court or poolside. If you’re looking for a statement item, we adore this mint-ice-cream tote from kate spade new york!
Pictured: kate spade new york | Tommy Hilfiger | GAP
This trend seeks inspiration in nature. Think subtle wooden detailing, all the way to straw hats and wicker bags! This look brings into focus an appreciation for naked materials and simple, pared-back leathers; with quality and craftsmanship winning over showier styles every day.
Pictured: kate spade new york | Dune London | Loake
The theme of optimism running through spring/summer ’21 collections has found its strongest foothold in print. From bright florals and rainbows to retro tie-dye, the runways were awash with mood-boosting patterns.
Nailing this trend is all about moderation; make sure to balance loud and proud prints with laid-back clothing or accessories. Polo Ralph Lauren's sneaker range has just launched in store – perfect if you're looking for understated, classic cool.
Pictured: Hobbs | Polo Ralph Lauren | kate spade new york
Being a waterfront location, we understand the importance of wrapping up on brisk beach walks without sacrificing style. The onus this season is on elevating casual wear with fashionable twists, which is why we adore this layered look from Belstaff, comprising a quilted waistcoat layered over a signature waxed jacket, in sunny sky blue – perfect for dressing up or down in all weathers! Comfy coastal chic at its best.
Pictured: Belstaff
Making environmentally conscious decisions about what you wear is a good look... and vital for safeguarding the future of our planet. The good news is that many brands are shifting the narrative from fast fashion to sustainability, making it easier than ever to go green.
We tend to wear our favourite shoes more than any other item of clothing and Loake is making sure we get as much wear out of them as possible, while boosting their environmental credentials. Loake's Goodyear Welted Crepe Sole uses biodegradable elements, meaning that when the soles have had their day, they can simply return to the earth.
Timberland is involved in a number of reforestation initiatives and is committed to planting a whopping 50 million trees around the world over the next five years; and BOSS is focusing on traceable materials and biodegradable leather (look for the RESPONSIBLE label to find styles made up of a minimum of 60% certified more sustainable materials).
Levi’s, meanwhile, has launched a new line of sustainable denim made from revolutionary materials, such as cottonised hemp and responsibly harvested wood. Find out more about Levi's sustainable collections >>
After spending more time than usual in our homes over the past year, the turn of the season brings with it an urge to freshen up our living spaces. Replace your annual spring clean with a spring makeover in a few easy steps, with our favourite homeware trends for 2021. You’ll find that small changes can make the world of difference and will breathe new life into your over-familiar four walls!
Turn your home into your castle and fill it with colourful detailing in hues that you love. But before you go retiling the kitchen, one of the most simple and effective ways to make over your space is with well-chosen accessories. This season, we’re loving the tastebud-tingling colour palette of summer berry tart. From rambunctious redcurrant to moody blackberry tones, let nature inspire you and you can’t go wrong!
Pictured: Le Creuset
‘Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.’ The famous quote by William Morris has guided interior design principle for centuries... though that doesn’t mean you can’t choose items that are both! Upgrade your living space with tableware that doubles as art. Glazed pottery offers unique and hypnotic finishes, reflects daylight beautifully and looks as good housing your morning espresso as your prized Pilea plant!
Pictured: Denby
Brighten your kitchen with mood-lifting colour splashes. Matchy-matchy, neutral homeware is out; while loud and proud, statement design choices are most definitely in!
Go big or go home with bold investment pieces, such as a teal cast-iron casserole or sunny yellow dinner set; or embrace all the colours of the rainbow with fun accessories, like mix ’n' match egg cups, salt and pepper mills and craft utensils.
Pictured: Le Creuset
Whether your skin is looking dull after too much time spent indoors, or your regime has simply taken a southwards slide, now is the perfect time to re-invest in feeling fantastic. Here are a few of our favourite summer health and beauty trends to help inspire you...
After learning to love nature over lockdown, it’s no surprise we’ve also rediscovered a passion for natural beauty. From Ritual's divine Sakura (aka Japanese Cherry Blossom) range fresh to minty face mists, Mother Nature knows best and we’re taking a leaf out of her book to help us feel gorgeous and glowing from the inside out!
Pictured: Rituals | The Body Shop
For an instant mood boost and fun summery scent, look to zesty citrus fruits – the perfect base for purifying beauty treatments, enlivening shower products and fruity body balms.
If you want a more complex take on citrus however, think outside the box – look for bergamot, lemon balm or the exotic Bushukan fruit. You’ll find Molton Brown's hypnotic Bushukan range in store now!
Pictured: The Perfume Shop | Molton Brown
Take a hint from one of nature's miracles this season, with honeycomb-inspired beauty. From alluring honey aromas, to indulgent body butters, you'll feel bee-utiful from top to toe!