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Image / Fashion

These 5 key pieces are all you need to make a summer wardrobe this year


By Edaein OConnell
23rd May 2020
These 5 key pieces are all you need to make a summer wardrobe this year

This summer all you need is these five key pieces to keep your wardrobe ticking over – we explain why that is


It may feel a little strange to be thinking about fashion in times like this.

Yet fashion is something that can lift us. It can brighten our days, even if only for a little while. We may not have weddings or the parties or the holidays to buy for, but we still have lives to live each day.

Just because we are in quarantine doesn’t mean we have to lock away our sartorial needs.

The key to dressing this summer is easy to wear pieces. This means relaxed shapes and staple pieces that we can wear on repeat all summer long.

These five pieces make a summer wardrobe. Each item can be mixed and matched with the majority of any wardrobe and can add a little sparkle back to our day to day motions.

The throw on dress

Sheer Lyocell maxi dress, €149 at & Other Stories

This silhouette is the shape of the summer. It’s easy to wear, comfortable, and is perfect for just about any occasion we may or may not be going to. At the time of design, the creators would not have known how fitting these types of dresses would be to the summer we find ourselves in. The loose shapes are exactly what we desire. Tight-fitting and structured versions would be our worst nightmare.

The dad sandal

Arizona Love pink and purple bandana knot, €130 at Farfetch

Oh, the humble dad sandal. Once worn exclusively by middle-aged fathers in Spain and always accessorised with socks. The fashion world looked down on them but now they are eating humble pie. The dad sandal is everywhere this season. Our favourites are the bandana knot creations by Arizona Love.

The oversized t-shirt

Nike Plus mini swoosh boyfriend t-shirt in dark yellow, €27.65 at ASOS

An oversized t-shirt is a basic in every wardrobe, but they have never been a more vital asset than right now. An oversized t-shirt paired with jeans, shorts, skirts, and anything else that is wearable can only be described as comfortable cool.

Relaxed denim shorts

Denim shorts, €49 at Arket

Denim shorts are a minefield. The hotpants of yore are the most difficult bottoms to wear but have managed to stay at the top of the summer dressing pecking order. However, change has come. Shorts this season are longer and with a more relaxed shape, meaning a more flattering and comfortable experience.

Basket bag

Oysho net basket, €39.99 at Zalando

Is there anything more French than a basket bag? No, there is not. Basket bags exude chicness and this summer they are the ideal companion to love and to hold. Because our trips will be limited to the shops and back, the basket bag is perfect for grocery shopping and looking nonchalantly stylish.


Read more: Chic and comfortable co-ords to kick start your summer wardrobe

Read more: The high street buys all over Instagram right now

Read more: 24 throw-on summer midi dresses to make your days a little better