May starts with a bang in fashion. The Met Gala, held on the first Monday of May, is the most outrageous and high-concept red carpet event of the year. While the looks may not translate directly into everyday style, they serve as a reminder that summer fashion should be fun. Bank holiday weekends are ideal for testing holiday-season style, and longer evenings make breezy dressing more feasible. Here are some standout pieces to consider.
Summer Bag with Swag: M&S Canvas Tote
Priced at £43, this cream canvas tote with tan leather trim from M&S is a classy summer staple. It is roomy and light, featuring an internal zipped pocket, and suits both yacht trips and ice-cream queues.
Sophisticated Sundress: Jigsaw Slub Stripe Sundress
Available from £145, this Jigsaw sundress boasts vertical stripes, luxe thick cotton, and knotted shoulder detailing. It is special enough for posh occasions yet practical for everyday wear when paired with a navy blazer and loafers.
Perfect Tumbler for Cocktails: Anthropologie Love Notes Tumbler
At £16, this tumbler evokes Loewe spring/summer 2023 vibes. A simpler glass with a blue seashell design is also available, perfect for mixing and matching at summer cocktail parties.
Flattering Barrel-Leg Trousers: Cos
Cos offers elasticated barrel-leg trousers for £75. These trousers sculpt soft silhouettes without flopping, making them an excellent white-jeans update for summer. They also come in black or burgundy.
Perfect Summer Bra: Dora Larsen Tulle Bra
Priced at £58, this sheer tulle bra from Dora Larsen is comfortable and light, available in vibrant colour combinations like mint green and pink or burgundy with magenta straps.
Pointelle Top: Baukjen Antoinette Rib V-Neck Top
For £65, this organic cotton top features a slim fit and minimal detailing, avoiding an overly cutesy look. Wear it with jeans and layered necklaces for a French girl Saturday morning aesthetic.
Instant Outfit Upgrade: Joseph Bean Pendant Necklace
At £145, this pendant necklace from Joseph has three adjustable lengths and serves as a real outfit-maker, reflecting the brand's renewed fashion icon status under creative director Mario Arena.
Shirt That Makes Chic a Cinch: & Other Stories Drawstring Shirt
Priced at £77, this cotton poplin shirt with a drawstring waist solves the problem of oversized shirts swamping the wearer. Available in pale pink or crisp blue stripe, the latter pairs well with a pencil skirt and ballet flats for the office.
Investment Silk Camisole: The Fold Adela Silk Satin Cami
At £120, this silk camisole with wide straps is ideal as a base layer for both day and evening wear, preventing rogue bra strap issues.
Best-Buy Shoes of the Year: Boden High Cut Flat Point
Priced at £119, these flats are as comfortable as slippers but smart enough for formal occasions. Available in ecru and leopard print, they have been a standout purchase.
