Summer Starts Here: Sunshine-Ready Outfit Ideas

Summer's here, heralding a new optimistic mood, gatherings with friends and family and lazy days in the sun. What's not to love?

A throw-on-and-go summer dress is perfect for sunny weekends and holidays. Look for relaxed, versatile designs with just the right amount of ‘look-at-me' detailing to elevate above the everyday, think subtle beading and embellishment. Pair with gladiator-style sandals for relaxed holiday sundowners or al fresco meals under the stars. Seeking a little more polish? Dial up for special occasions with kitten heels, armfuls of oversized bangles and a sleek leather tote.

When the sun (finally) appears be sure you're sartorially ready to make the most of any socialising opportunities on the horizon. Our advice? Reach for a fail-safe short-sleeved shirt for a summer-ready outfit with minimum effort. A shirt and shorts combination makes for the perfect laidback daytime look and can be dressed up for evening with smarter accessories– you'll discover it's the ultimate wardrobe chameleon.

Choose one with considered design details to make the everyday feel a little bit special: this graphic print shirt features a retro-inspired revere collar. Worn open over a T-shirt with jeans or chinos, it'll strike the right note whether you're headed to a beer garden or somewhere smarter for sundowners.

Shorts and a T-shirt is the perfect kids' outfit for easy summer style and one of the season's most practical options for parties with bouncy castles or outdoor activities. Or choose candy-coloured brights such as hot pink and coral for the perfect wear-everywhere summer dress.

Just add sandals, sunglasses and lashings of sun cream and you've got go-to outfits that'll work for everything you have planned over the summer, from holidays abroad to family-friendly festivals.