Another month, another long weekend. Just as our wallet starts to recover from an activity-packed Easter, the early May bank holiday sweeps in with its endless possibilities. Will we spend it brunching with pals? Probably. Will we also spend it going on a country walk (aka pub crawl)? Likely. Will we intersperse all that with pottering around the shops? Absolutely.
Beyond needing outfits for our weekend full of social events, we’re also starting to dream of rising temperatures. So far England has been treated to a smattering of sunshine but now we’re really pushing the boat out and putting away our big puffer coat for good (or, you know, until October). And what better way to celebrate this momentous occasion than with some mood-boosting outfits?
Are you looking for a dreamy dress to wear on your first warm weather break of the year? We’ve got it. How about a pair of platform flip-flops built for life in the city? We’ve got those, too. Whatever it is you’re looking for this summer season, Team R29 has your style inspiration covered. To take a look at everything on our fashion wish lists this May, click through the slideshow ahead…
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Ebony-Renee Baker, Fashion EditorWhy? Well, there’s no such thing as too many hoops! The thickness of these ones from Hey Harper is super unique and I think they’ll go perfectly with a white top and jeans for that simple but put-together look.
Hey Harper Jennifer Earrings, $, available at Hey Harper
I’m fully embracing colour this spring and this minty shade is calling my name. We all could use a staple shirt and the ruching on this one gives it that level of detail I’m always craving.
Daily Paper Seacrest Green Madison Blouse, $, available at Daily Paper
Faux leather isn’t exactly summer material but living in the UK for the past three years I’ve realised that there will always be summer days where trousers like these will be appropriate. These Commando trousers are a wide-leg version of my favourite faux leather leggings and will pair well with crop tops in the summer and knitwear for autumn and winter.
Commando Faux Stretch-Leather Wide-Leg Pants, $, available at Net-A-Porter
Alicia Lansom, Editorial AssistantI’m finally putting on my big girl pants and getting my second lobe piercing (the first time was an ordeal to say the least). This earring set comes with everything I need for four cool-looking piercings, providing a perfect start to my curated ear journey.
Pilgrim Euphoric Hoop Earrings 2-in-1 Set Silver-Plated, $, available at Pilgrim
As a certified sunglasses addict, this summer is my oval specs era. Gone are my harsh, rectangular frames, replaced with a softer shape for a more ’60s feel. C’est chic.
Le Specs Outta Love Oval-Frame Tortoiseshell Acetate Sunglasses, $, available at Net-A-Porter
The high neck, the open back, the chocolatey colourway = the perfect summer dress.
Maybelle Morgan, Entertainment EditorI think I see this more as a beach wraparound but who knows when the sun hits in the hotter months and I’m in need of something with fluidity to cycle somewhere (with shorts on underneath of course). I’m obsessed with mesh skirts at the moment, more so of the ’90s maxi variety but this will do for now. Hope Sandoval of Mazzy Star is my dream style pin-up for this summer; I’m forever trying to be like her.
Weekday Irena Mini Wrap Mesh Skirt, $, available at Weekday
I’ve been after a pair of flip-flop slippers for ages but balk at the gap-year vibes of Havaianas. Enter Vagabond. These have enough versatility to go the distance, with a stylish square toe to level up the silhouette. Comfy enough for all-day use and sleek enough for the office? Check. Then straight into my holiday suitcase for elevated evening looks with a midi dress. Check check.
It’s (gonna be) May, which means I have one thing on my mind: the upcoming festival season. I’ve got tickets to Primavera so I’m after a raucous pop of colour to hold all my worldly possessions as I bounce from stage to stage. This neon bucket bag is perfect, not only for practicality – spot the sturdy crossbody strap and utilitarian hiking toggles – but also because it’s loud enough for my friends to spot me if we get separated in the crowds.
Bimba y Lola S Orange Bucket Bag, $, available at Bimba y Lola
Jacqueline Kilikita, Senior Beauty EditorThe time has come to say goodbye to my enormous, fluffy winter coat. My wardrobe is pretty neutral (mostly black, actually) so this khaki denim overshirt will hopefully go with everything on chilly summer nights.
Mango Oversized Denim Overshirt, $, available at Mango
I’ve got five weddings this year and my budget is low but I think this could make a really lovely wedding guest dress. I’ll have to take up the hem as I’m only 5ft but with nude strappy sandals and a tan bag, I’ll be good to go.
ASOS DESIGN Satin Maxi Dress With Batwing Sleeve And Wrap Waist, $, available at ASOS
I want to expand my vintage ring collection and I’m into stacking them right now. This sapphire and diamond cluster would go so well with my other gold pieces but the whole entire website is a treasure trove.
Golden Trove 9ct Gold Sapphire & Diamond Three Lane Cluster Ring, $, available at Golden Trove
Esther Newman, Affiliate WriterNow picnic weather is here in all its glory, I need a carry-it-all tote bag. I love this woven bag not only because it’s handmade but because it can easily be repurposed as a storage basket come autumn.
I know, I know – £89 is a lot for what is essentially just a rectangle of fabric but if this skirt is as great-fitting as my current Djerf Avenue pieces, I can see it becoming a wardrobe staple. For day I would wear it with a baby tee and trainers, and with a bandeau top and knee-high boots at night. Come the colder weather? An oversized jumper and Docs.
Djerf Avenue Midi Tube Skirt Liquorice, $, available at Djerf Avenue
It’s the dream, throw-it-on-and-go dress. That curve-hugging, slightly flared fit? Say no more! Again, this is way out of my budget but I’ve been kicking myself that I missed out on the yellow option for months now so it’s safe to say that I’m obsessed.
Realisation Par The Allegra, $, available at Realisation Par
Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health & Living EditorI recently started really enjoying long-distance running (it’s 2022! Anything can happen!) and I’ve worn through a lot of my sports socks in the process. To stop developing unbearable blisters I was on the lookout for a more robust pair to support my feet on my longer runs and was blessed to find Bombas. Running socks that are thick, stylish and comfortable and I haven’t developed any new blisters since? Tick tick tick.
Bombas Women’s Performance Running Quarter Socks, $, available at Bombas
Comfort and the ability to move with ease are top priorities for me at the moment. While I’m really enjoying shopping my own wardrobe for office and weekend outfits, I have a tendency to fall either into pyjamas or full sportswear when I’m working from home. These adidas tights are perfect for both a low-effort workout and (more importantly) for swanning around the flat in an oversized jumper and not feeling quite as slovenly as I’d feel in my pyjamas.
Adidas Future Icons Leggings, $, available at Adidas
My old bike has finally given up the ghost butI was lucky enough to be gifted a beautiful bike from Velobello. I want to not have to change shoes once I get to the office and most sandals either a) expose toe, which is not my office vibe or b) slip off, dooming my cycle. These beautiful, slip-on Vagabond sandals solve both of those problems while also being my dream summer shoe.
Vagabond Shoemakers Eyra Sandals, $, available at Vagabond
Anna Jay, Art DirectorI’ve got some events coming up and have definitely been converted to hiring over buying. This site has so many brands I love, including Stine Goya, Rejina Pyo and Totême (to name a few) but this green dress by Yasmina Q has been in my sights for a long time.
Yasmina Q Green Chloe Dress in Jasmine Print, $, available at Rotaro
While I’m desperate to get my arms out, I have to admit it’s not warm enough yet. This lilac number is carrying me through the baby steps out of my front door and into the world.
& Other Stories Wool Blend Tortoise Button Cardigan, $, available at & Other Stories
Quite obsessed with the primary colour of this, inspired of course by Brittany Bathgate and her good jumpers.
Jessica Morgan, Staff WriterNow that lockdown restrictions have eased and the weather has brightened up (thank God), my wardrobe needs a complete upheaval. I’ve been living in sweatpants and turtlenecks for the best part of the year and to be honest, it’s time to show some leg. I’ve been loving box pleat skirts recently and I really like this affordable option from Hollister, which can be styled with open-toe sandals or a pair of trainers in the summer.
Hollister Co. Crop Camp Shirt, $, available at Hollister Co.
The colour yellow brings me joy!
Finisterre Roberts Jumper, $, available at Finisterre
I have been obsessed with London-based Chinese designer Feng Chen Wang’s designs ever since that incredible collaboration with Converse last year. Now she’s back with an exciting collaboration with UGG, a boot/sandal hybrid that can be worn all year round. It features an adjustable sandal and cosy sheepskin boot liner which can be worn together or separately for a three-in-one functionality. This whimsical take on a convertible classic can be styled with everything in my wardrobe – perfect, considering our weather is unpredictable on the best of days.
Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty EditorEvery spring, without fail, the sun lulls me into a false sense of security and I leave my house sans jacket only to end up cutting any outing short because I’m freezing. This is the year I learn. This houndstooth overshirt is light but looks cosy and the trim on the sleeves and hem gives it a cool edge.
When lockdown lifts, I’ve decided I’m going to be a jewellery person. I like to keep things understated, so I’ll start with earrings. These interlocked gold hoops are super cute.
Astrid & Miyu Luminous Charm Hoops in Gold, $, available at Astrid & Miyu
This is from & Other Stories’ collaboration with Rejina Pyo and I’m really feeling the chic goth vibes. The organza sleeves make it pretty dressy but I have a pair of chunky Doc Marten sandals that would toughen it up. It’s at the top of my wish list.
& Other Stories Organza Sleeve Silk Midi Dress, $, available at & Other Stories
Alicia Lansom, Editorial AssistantWhile I would rather be wearing this pearlised top at a beachside bar, it’s so pretty that I’ll settle for wearing it in a beer garden. The website gives you the option to purchase it new or nearly new but, for now, I’ll be renting it to keep costs down and be more planet-friendly.
It’s safe to say that I am thoroughly obsessed with coloured lenses. While most designs offer little shade from the sun, these vintage-inspired sunglasses from Poppy Lissiman are UV protected, making them the perfect 2021 summer shades.
Poppy Lissiman Helios Black/Orange, $, available at Poppy Lissiman
Over the last month I have scrolled through what feels like 1,000 pairs of sandals. While there are plenty of tempting options online, I think I’ve found my ideal pair in these strappy dad sandals from & Other Stories.
& Other Stories Croc Embossed Leather Sandals, $, available at & Other Stories
Kristine Romano, Photo & Design AssistantI don’t care how warm it gets, I plan on living in this jumper for the foreseeable future. I adore everything about it!
cristinacriaco Frankenstein oversized knit jumper, $, available at Depop
I love jazzing up simple outfits with statement jewellery and this necklace is all kinds of fun. It would pair perfectly with jeans and a tee.
silleblaa Pearl chain type 2 color mix, $, available at silleblaa
With all these extra hours of daylight, I finally feel motivated to take up running again and have invested in a much-needed pair of supportive trainers. My previous trainers were a literal pain to wear; these Hokas feel like clouds on my feet in comparison.
Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health & Living WriterI am not made of stone so I am not immune to the delicious appeal of the resin and glass rings that have been popping up recently. I love the shape and shade of these – I would go for the brown to complement my increasingly natural palette.
On that note, I have been making and wearing almost solely green or brown items recently but haven’t yet mastered sewing trousers. I love this pair from the Belfast-based sustainable fashion brand. I’d pair them with a crisp white tee under a muted knitted sweater vest and some Converse (or Birkenstocks if the weather is nice enough).
I love every. Single. Thing about this dress. The mushroom shade, the fluted sleeves, the embroidery, the high neck, the POCKETS. This is the kind of dress I dream about wearing to picnics, to dinners out, to walks…all the good stuff the pandemic has taught us to crave. As far as I’m concerned this is the perfect spring dress.
Meadows Store Calla Dress, $, available at Meadows Store
Vicky Spratt, Features EditorIn the season between spring and summer I am predictable and boring. Jeans, nice jumper and, if it happens to be warm enough to take said jumper off, a tank top. Sadly, the one I really want from Totême is £70, which I just can’t justify, so I’ll be stockpiling this one from COS.
COS Ribbed Organic Cotton Tank Top, $, available at COS
Will I leave the country this year? It’s not looking likely. But if I do, I hope I have this Ganni sun hat in my suitcase.
Ganni Logo-patch gingham-seersucker bucket hat, $, available at MatchesFashion
During the last year of working from home I have struggled to wear anything other than a) my comfiest jeans b) sweatpants or c) gym leggings on my bottom half. But I have found that accessories bring me a lot of joy and make me excited to get dressed in the morning. These mismatched mother of pearl earrings from Simone Rocha are really playful and I would love to have them in my growing ‘things you can wear on a two-hour video call’ collection.
Simone Rocha Mismatched Mother-Of-Pearl Hoop Earrings in Silver, $, available at LN-CC
Nina Joyce, Communications DirectorThere was a time when a pair of hoops from H Samuel was all a girl could want, but whilst this is still a style classic, I’m thinking a little more considerately about where my jewellery comes from and who is making it. These from Birdsong guarantee a Living Wage for the women who make them in India and they look b-e-a-utiful.
Birdsong Large Gold Hoop Earrings, $, available at Birdsong
I’ve been in a long term, committed relationship with Birkenstock for several years now, and since I’m looking forward to a summer of re-socialising, this vibrant jade and yellow pair is perfect for the back to back BBQs I’ll be attending.
Birkenstock Arizona Essentials, $, available at Birkenstock
I’m in love with the print on this bowling shirt, which is a collaboration between Carnations and artist Joy Yamusangie (and also comes with matching shorts and a bucket hat which altogether is still under the £400 mark). It’s all handmade to order in London using sustainable fabrics, so there’s no waste and you once again know you’re contributing to a fairer, better way of consuming fashion. Did I mention it also looks amazing? It looks amazing.
Carnations x Joy Yamusangie Bowling Shirt, $, available at Carnations
Georgia Murray,Junior Fashion Editor
My favourite activist fashion brand, Birdsong has shut down production for the time being in order to protect its makers, but you can still shop from the brand so that they can continue to pay the women who make their pieces a London Living Wage. I just bought this tee, which has a mega cute and timely message embroidered on it.
Birdsong In Bloom Organic Cotton T-Shirt, $, available at Birdsong
Sure, none of us is going abroad any time soon but that hasn’t stopped me dreaming up my ideal holiday looks. If I had my way, I’d be wearing these unreal Paul & Joe x Arizona Love sandals with a slip dress and heaps of jewellery, Campari in hand. If that’s too much to ask, I’ll wear them on my government-sanctioned daily walk instead.
Paul & Joe LESLIE Sandals, $, available at Paul & Joe
Anna Jay, Art DirectorI pre-ordered the NHS Together tee from Everpress a few weeks ago and it’s now my favourite outlet as I’m a huge fan of both T-shirts and independent design. I’m adding this next to my list, as I’ve really been thinking of how to slow down post-rona, and what better reminder than to wear it emblazoned on your chest.
Headfirst Slow Down Long Sleeve T-Shirt, $, available at Everpress
It’s getting warmer and I want that comfort in short form. Enter: the ‘sweatshort’.
Ninety Percent Organic Cotton Running Shorts, $, available at Ninety Percent
My WFH look is based around two fleeces, which I wear on rotation. If I could add a third, it would be this one. The perfect pottering garment.
Yes, I know I can’t go outside right now but these ’70s bad boys are so dreamy that I will happily wear them sitting on the sofa with the sun beaming in through the window.
And Other Stories Squared Sunglasses, $, available at & Other Stories
Buying new shoes might seem like a silly idea at the moment but rest assured, the minute lockdown is lifted I will be trotting to the nearest beer garden in these swoon-worthy sandals.
Zara Leather High Heel Sandals, $, available at Zara
Sadly, the majority of my hoop collection is made up of rusty earrings from cheap multipacks. It feels like now might be the right time to pool all the money I’m saving by not travelling and invest in a pair that won’t turn my ears green.
Simone Rocha Small Beaded Hoop Earrings, $, available at Matches Fashion
Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health & Living Writer
Timely reminder I think we all need rn from one of my favourite magazines (and T-shirt presses).
Everpress Stay Safe Stay Sane By Sabat, $, available at Everpress
It’s rare that I buy or wear necklaces but I want to make an exception for this one. Chunky lemon fresh!
Sandralexandra Lemon Chunky Chain Necklace, $, available at Sandralexandra
This is everything I’d want in a dress right now. Bright and sunny enough to bring some springtime joy inside, fitted enough to make me feel like a person but still loose and comfy enough for swanning around inside in.
Résumé Taika Orange Gingham Dress, $, available at Studio B
Vicky Spratt, Features Editor
Ever since lockdown became a reality and WFH turned into the new normal, I’ve been living in gym gear. I’ve found that this bra from Girlfriend Collective also works as a top. Unlike so many sports bras it doesn’t constrict me to the point where I feel I’m going to pass out. I’ve been wearing it with high-waist leggings and biker shorts and, crucially, it’s nice enough to pass as workwear on a Zoom call. My new aesthetic, apparently, is Kim Kardashian on the school run.
Girlfriend Collective Sports Stretch-Jersey Bra, $, available at Selfridges
I’ve given up wearing Converse during the winter months because, honestly, I like to be able to feel my toes. It’s spring now so I’ll be treating myself to a new pair and wearing them with jeans and a simple T-shirt or, if I ever get out of my gym gear, a nice floaty dress when I go out for my government-mandated walk.
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star 70 Hi, $, available at The GoodHood Store
Speaking of nice floaty dresses, this Ghost bias cut ’90s grunge floral thing is everything I want to be wearing. In my experience, the cut of their dresses is always spot on and genuinely brilliant given the price point. Yes, I’m in my 30s, these are the things I think about now. I’ll be wearing this with the Converse while I walk around, socially distancing, listening to “Luna” by the Smashing Pumpkins and wondering if The Pub is thinking about me too. Maybe I’ll drop him a text and test the water.
Ghost Summer Dress Welsh Bouquet Blue, $, available at Ghost
Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty EditorI’m not usually a dress person but I want to be. And when better than spring? I’ve spotted a couple of influencers floating around in this and I really love it – mainly because it’s the only maxi I’ve spotted sans floral print. I’ll wear it with sandals and my JW Anderson logo bag in tan.
ASOS DESIGN Shirred Bustier Tiered Maxi Dress, $, available at ASOS
This spring, I vow to ditch my trusty but beaten up Vans for some cute sandals. I keep seeing these all over Instagram and the cool square toe has swayed me. They are also available in black, but I think the nude colour will look cuter with a pair of jeans and a casual tee.
Zara Heeled Leather Square Toe Sandals, $, available at Zara
It’s time to shed my bulky winter coat in favour of something lighter and I choose this oversized leather jacket. I’ll wear it with billowing trousers and boots or the above sandals to toughen them up a little bit.
Zara Oversized Leather Jacket, $, available at Zara
Habiba Katsha, Editorial Intern Even though we’re still in lockdown, seeing the sun come out is making me somewhat happier. These sunnies will be perfect for when I go on my walks to the park.
ASOS DESIGN Mid Square Sunglasses In Milky Tort, $, available at ASOS
Even though I won’t be going to any bottomless brunches, I can still have bottomless drinks in the comfort of my back garden. I quite enjoy getting glam in my house for the sole purpose of taking pics for my IG and this dress would like great on my feed.
Zara Satin Effect Dress With Tie Detail, $, available at Zara
Since the only fun outside activity I can do now is going on a walk, I want some comfy trainers that I can also serve looks with and this New Balance pair is just that.
New Balance White & Pink 530 Trainers, $, available at Schuh
Kristine Romano, Photo & Design AssistantThis dress makes me excited that the weather is warming up – even if I’ll only be able to wear it inside for the time being. It’s perfectly breezy and adds a pop of colour to my otherwise drab joggers and baggy tee WFH uniform.
Monki Short Sleeve Buttoned Dress, $, available at Monki
I actually only own one pair of shorts so I figure it might be time to invest in another pair. I’m loving all things green at the moment, these shorts included! They’re linen as well, making them perfect to lounge around in.
And Other Stories High Waisted Linen-Blend Shorts, $, available at & Other Stories
I’ve been looking for a pair of black mules that I can slip into when it’s hot out. Although I wouldn’t get much use out of these right now, I think my feet would be happy to take a break from my trainers once the weather allows for it. I especially love the square toe and small heel on these.
Chio Muled Sandals With Low Heel In Black Leather, $, available at ASOS
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