Spring is here, or better still, the summer season is on the horizon together with the end of lockdown. Can we finally bid farewell to a year of prolonged loungewear styles and tips on what to wear at home? Perhaps not, considering that we have become more accustomed to a pared-down way of living. Lockdown has shifted our mindset entirely, which has, subsequently, affected the way we dress—as such, dressing with sprezzatura, or an effortless style is quickly becoming a summer trend. Casual-glam is the new casual-smart, without the need to overdress for any occasion. After mastering the art of dressing for a Zoom call in a pyjama suit during the lockdown, we can make anything look glamorous. Here are five looks we will all wear in the summer:

5 Top Summer Style Tips

(1) A casual shirt dress is timeless and hence requires little styling. You may want to consider teaming your shirt dress with a fashionable pair of sandals or trainers, both of which are current high-street trends. Louboutin’s classic Pigalle, on the contrary, no longer has the same appeal. Has the fearless fashionista come back down to earth, or perhaps comfort has surpassed style?

Bum Bag – 1980s Style

(2) The 1980s revival continues to dominate the world of fashion. The bumbag is back–a popular trend that will prevail through summer. There is something nostalgically uber-cool about this unisex accessory. You will most likely wear it across the body or around the waist teamed with a pair of classic jeans and a white shirt.

Understated Summer Style

(3) The classic beige trench coat has remerged on the catwalk and high street. What is more, we will see a juxtaposition of such understated styles against statement accessories like the Bottega Veneta chain pouch bag or cassette chain-embellished padded intrecciato leather shoulder bag. The high-street replica looks just as elegant, but it is a fraction of the price. I predict that culottes, worn with a tailored shirt, necklace and trench coat, will become a widespread summer trend–you heard it here first.

Florals & Denim -Summer BBQ

(4) Florals and denim will become the dress code of summer BBQs and garden parties this year. While denim is a casual and somewhat masculine trend, a floral print – combined with denim – provides a feminine contrast.
Bright-coloured clothing and accessories in pink, yellow and red are paving the way for a brighter future in fashion.

Little Pink Dress

(5) As we saw at The Oscars and runway shows, bright colours are on-trend. Furthermore, such colours are synonymous with power, hope and optimism, all contributing to self-belief during adverse times.

How To Dress For The Office

Wear a classic suit or a well-tailored jacket with trousers and a pair of comfortable flat shoes. The one-third golden rule stipulates that ‘every man should have at least one good suit and every woman at least one good jacket’ – both of which provide structure.

Timeless Fashion

Monochromatic fashion is timeless. A classic black outfit is ideal for the office, especially if you’re stuck in a style rut. Every wardrobe requires essential items, such as the little black dress (LBD) and a classic white shirt, which reign supreme among monochromatic styles. Furthermore, nude or black accessories are must-have items for daily use and are perfect for all occasions.

Bright Colours

A pair of casual-smart slingbacks or mules complement work attire whilst providing comfort. Nothing beats the convenience of working from home in slippers. However, such privileges will come to an end upon returning to work. My advice is to purchase a stylish pair of trainers from Kurt Geiger or Dune for your daily commute, seamlessly transitioning from day to evening.

Follow @styleiconnat