10 British Style Essentials for Summertime - Slow Fashion Edit

Well Summer is finally here and there is a possibility we might all be allowed back into the outside world to enjoy this one! In preparation for the new season, I thought I would do a round up of my top 10 British Style Essentials for Summertime. 

We often associate British style with the colder seasons, but good staples can see you through the Spring and beyond if styled well. In my previous posts I have talked about how developing more of a sense of style for myself has helped me on my slow and sustainable fashion journey; choosing clothing and accessories that are classic, long lasting and can be worn for decades. 

I hope you enjoy my list and find some inspiration for this summer!

1. White Dress

I have recently seen a number of ladies on Pinterest pairing white tea dresses with wax jackets and wellies for Spring and I have to say I am obsessed! For me, incorporating practical timeless staples with Romantic or Vintage dresses is the ultimate British Summer Style Look.

2. Wellies 

Wellies are not just for Winter! Especially in the UK where it rains at a moments notice! Although I included these in my blog post on my recent slow fashion purchases I have seen some gorgeous images of women styling wellies in summer outfits. When choosing a pair of wellies, I would recommend using Depop or Facebook Market Place to buy a good quality pair for less!

3. Wax Jacket

The light nature of a wax jacket means it can be worn year round especially in the UK where the weather in unpredictable. This summer I will be layering mine over a white dress for the perfect pub esk outfit.  

4. Light Wool Skirt 

Tweed skirts can look stunning in summer when paired with a light t-shirt or a cardigan. Choosing a lighter color tweed can look stunning and be perfect for the office or a lunch with friends. I personally love my light grey/brown tweed skirt that I had made (previous blog post here). Having one made is a brilliant option if you find a fabric that you like and if you already have another skirt to steal the pattern from, most good tailors can make you a custom skirt very quickly. 

5. White Trousers 

Now, these seem to be a summer favorite and every summer in the UK everyone seems to get their pair of while trousers out. I am not a massive fan of many of the styles I have seen but there are some lovely ones out their if you can pull them off. Side note, don't drink and wear white jeans as grass stains will never come out. 

6. Linen Shirt 

Ultra feminine and ultra 'organic' a beautiful linen shirt is a slow fashion staple in the summer months. They can also be easily found cheaply and second hand in a local charity shop or on Depop. 

7. Warm Wool Socks

If you are wearing wellies this summer you will still need them... we all know why...Also, if like me you like to go for a paddle from time to time you will need a good thick sock to warm up those trotters after they have been in the sea. 

8. Waistcoat 

You would have to be brave to pull this one off... or incredibly stylish! When worn well, a waistcoat can take an outfit to the next level. I have not been brave enough to buy one myself yet, but I adore them on other more stylish women! Tweed gives this look a very classic outdoorsy edge, however denim and a light wool can also look beautiful over a white shirt. 

9. Boater shoes 

Practical and timeless 'boaters' are key in any British country wardrobe. although they can be a little too preppy for some, they can be worn in a more vintage fashion with a linen shirt and old blue Levis. 

10. Silk Scarf 

I am quite in love with vintage silk scarfs at the moment and have seen some wonderful examples of people incorporating them into their summer outfits as either a scarf or a headscarf. Beautiful and timeless one of my favorite small brands who make them can be found here. 

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