Summer of Fun: Sunshine-Ready Outfit Ideas

Everything you need to style out your summer social calendar, from barbecues and beach gatherings to legendary kids' parties

Content editor

Dulcie Emerson

Life's a beach

A throw-on-and-go shirt is the perfect layer to wear to sunny weekend gatherings. Breezy and relaxed – with just the right amount of ‘look-at-me' details – this seersucker shirt is super versatile and easy to style. The voluminous sleeves and preppy green stripes create a vintage-inspired, nautical vibe when layered over a vibrant one-piece swimsuit, bikini or cotton vest top. Pair with cool-but-comfy wide-leg jeans for a look that's equally suited to picnics in the park as it is seaside adventures. Seeking a little more polish? Swap jeans for this season's must-have denim maxi skirt and a pair of eye-catching wedge espadrilles to create an on-trend tonal look that makes the perfect outfit for a brunch date in town.

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Get shirty

When the sun shows up you need to act fast to make the most of outdoor socialising opportunities. Reach for a fail-safe short-sleeve shirt for a barbecue-ready outfit with minimum effort. An easy-breezy shirt and shorts combination makes for the perfect laidback daytime look and can be dressed up for evening with the addition of smarter accessories – it's the ultimate wardrobe chameleon. A linen button-through polo shirt will make the everyday feel a little bit special thanks to the considered design details, like the rich tobacco hue and ribbed knit. Similarly, a classic long-sleeved linen shirt worn open over a white T-shirt and drawstring shorts will strike the right note whether you're headed to a beer garden or a hip wine bar for sundowners.

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How to style a summer shirt

It takes two

A cute co-ord is the perfect kids' outfit for easy everyday style and one of the season's most practical options for parties with bouncy castles or outdoor activities. Pick bright colours and eye-catching patterns to keep matching sets feeling appropriate for summer. We love a monochromatic graphic print teamed with a stone-washed denim jacket and rip-tape sandals or Crocs for a subtle nod to fashion's nineties' revival. Keep kids safe in the sun by making sure they have a funky sun hat and sunglasses to keep harmful rays at bay – our fun selection fuses fun design with practicality meaning there's no need to compromise on style.

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How to style a co-ord

Go for bold

Head-to-toe pattern is a key kidswear trend that isn't going anywhere. Simple and oh-so wearable, a printed shirt and shorts set will rapidly become their favourite look for summer gatherings. This graphic cactus-print shirt features a revere collar and cuffed sleeves, making it the perfect option for pool parties and holidays. Wear with the matching drawstring-waist swim shorts or vary the look by pairing with jeans or combat trousers. Add some flip-flops and lashings of sun block and you've got a formula that will work for everything you have planned over the holidays, from camping trips to summer festivals.

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How to style a graphic shirt