We've all been there: reaching into the swimwear drawer only to pull out something crunchy, see-through or three sizes bigger than it was last summer. Not the best start to a holiday. Though not every swimwear piece meets this fate at the same speed. And as the chicly dressed women at Türkiye's luxury D Resort Göçek made abundantly clear during my recent Euro Summer sojourn, investment swimwear really does pay off in the long run. I watched these women swim in from superyachts, so can confirm they know exactly what they're talking about.

Price alone, however, isn't the only indicator of longevity—though I've found it to be a fairly reliable one. What we're really looking for is thicker fabric, double-lined designs (which also solves the see-through problem) and colourways less prone to fading or staining. And there's no shortage of beautiful swimsuits and bikinis up to the task.

Hunza G—mine is four years old and going strong—Vix Paula Hermanny and Calvin Klein are just a handful of tried and tested swimwear brands that genuinely last far beyond a single summer.

Though, how quickly swimwear fades is also influenced by how we care for it. Chlorine, saltwater, sunscreen and sweat can all fade and alter the colour of swimwear, so rinsing pieces through at the end of each day is always wise. A cool rinse in the sink with a touch of mild detergent will do it—on holiday, I opt for hand soap or shampoo—and after a few uses, a 30-minute soak before lying flat to dry makes a real difference. If the washing machine is non-negotiable, a handwash or delicates cycle on a cool setting will keep things clean without causing damage.

Scroll on for the swimwear pieces worth the investment.

Investment Bikinis and Swimsuits We're Loving

An overstuffed suitcase is a recipe for holiday disaster (seriously, excess baggage charges really kill the vibe). But what if we told you there is a way to make packing a cinch—and that all you need to do, besides nailing the basics, is prioritise a category that's overlooked? Not sarongs, not sandals but holiday jewellery.

Deploy a cocktail ring at the right moment—or, equally, a necklace to decorate your steadily more sun-kissed décolletage, and the simplest outfit (the white linen shirt you've been wearing by the pool then out for aperitivo) suddenly looks "dressed", artful even.

Certain jewellery brands have been gearing collections towards out-of-office season, channeling the mantra "pack less, accessorise more". Heaven Mayhem's upcoming capsule, Heaven on Holiday, launching on 28 May, is primed to offset your holiday persona, with shell details, natural stones and textured finishes, as well as the introduction of wood. An everyday uniform of a white vest top and black linen trousers, cool in both senses of the word, immediately becomes elevated with a string of tiger's eye beads or a square bangle pushed up the forearm, no?

Mejuri's latest collection is based around "jewelry [that] becomes part of you: a chain warmed at your collarbone after a swim, a ring catching sunlight with every movement, a charm tied to your favorite memory." If that sounds blissful, the brand's pendant necklaces—decorated with beach-combed crabs, shells, starfish or pebbles—deserve a place in your packable jewellery pouch.

Frequent travellers (and tastemakers) have long been on first-name terms with the "accessorise more" ethos when abroad. Laura Vidrequin often pairs a flotsum-and-jetsum necklace with her whisper-fine cotton kaftans and straw baskets while holidaying. Bettina Looney, meanwhile, opts for shell pendants, whether they're strung on a fine silver chain or a length of cord.

The below four categories—from statement earrings to wear-with-anything rings—will hopefully convince you to pare back your wardrobe in favour of a talking-point piece of jewellery, a brooch or necklace that will remind you of the sea, or a midnight karaoke session, long after you return.

Statement Earrings

Look-At-Me Necklaces

Wear-With-Anything Rings

Bold (And Unexpected) Brooches

Carrie Bradshaw's taste in men—and her tendency to boomerang straight back into their arms—might be what you'd call a "red flag" in modern dating parlance. But if there's one long-term commitment she got right, it's to corsages, not a dalliance but a love affair that lasted for a six-seasoned show, two movie spin-offs and a reboot.

The accessory is once again getting its flowers at Haute Couture Week, the twice-annual event currently happening in Paris. Outside Dior, Alexa Chung wore a black dress gathered at the left hip, a corsage (plus a stream of powder blue flowers) providing its satiny fabric with extra fabulousness. The flora theme continued inside the venue, a veritable hot house, and on the catwalk itself, where corsages were used to decorate lapels, waists, hips and even handbags (the brand's refined top-handle, the Lady Dior).

Like its cousin, the brooch, corsages have a reputation for being old-fashioned (fusty, even). The fortunes of both have been reversed this season, however, with floral pins being deployed—left, right and centre—to give the most basic item of clothing a decided flourish.

Tory Burch's T-shirt is one such example, a crew-neck design that comes with a bloom—its petals tinged pink—on the left-hand side. You can see how it would elevate the most basic or muted of bottom halves (cargo shorts, say, or black linen trousers), lending finesse to an unfussy outfit.

If chest height feels too season three Carrie, try pinning it somewhere "random"—just above your hip bone or a bag strap—and see how that affects the essence of your look. You can also play with the size (Blair Eadie's feathery explosion might be the ultimate evening corsage).

Our prediction? It might be the start not of a summer fling but an enduring romance.

Shop The Best Corsages

A flip-flop used to be your best ally for a beach trip but not a serious proposition for most other settings, especially the office. That was then. Now, the flip-flop has emerged as such a dominant style of sandal that it's an umbrella term—one that contains a multitude of micro trends, although they all still have the signature two straps joined between the big and second toe. Take jelly flip-flops, a variation that's sand-ready, to be sure, but also perfectly ripe for the city. Keep scrolling to see—and shop—the four flip-flop trends we're bookmarking for summer 2026.

Jelly Flip-Flops

Jelly heels might be this summer's biggest (and most surprising) shoe trend, but the flip-flop version—with a pleasingly flat sole—has been hot property for the past few summers, and shows no sign of sloping off. Christopher Esber's candy-coloured flip-flops are selling fast (and selling out) on Net-a-Porter, while Ancient Greek Sandals, who does jelly as well as it does leather, has primary-coloured jellies that will jazz up any summer outfit.

Rubber Flip-Flops

It's hard to name a more iconic shoe, never mind flip-flop, than Brazil's Havaianas. The classic rubber flip-flop is the only off-duty sandal you need in summer; an all-rounder that will pair with swimwear as well as something more sultry come evening. There are other brands to consider in the world of rubber flip-flops, however, including Sleepers, which also has tapered soles, and the exuberant shades offered by Brizza Arezzo.

Leather Flip-Flops

The Row's Ginza helped to create an entirely new genre of flip-flop: leather. M&S had their own sell-out version of the polished flip-flop—and, now, contemporary brands have put their own spin on the sleek and super-minimal sandal that is more than office-appropriate.

Comfy Flip-Flops

If you're going to be doing serious mileage, a sandal designed to support a high step count is going to be a priority. Luckily, several footwear brands known for their tech-first approach have flip-flops that are stylish and serious about comfort like FitFlop and Archies.

It's hard to summon a put-together outfit when the weather is set to scorchingly warm, which is why it's best to rely on pieces that were—quite literally—made for each other: co-ords.

Timed perfectly to coincide with our latest heatwave comes not one but two collaborations that include the kind of co-ord—easy and yet elegant—that will make holiday packing, but also getting dressed for the office, not a cinch but certainly manageable. The first comes from Monikh Dale, who's once again partnered with resort brand Faithfull, creating a capsule, Monikh x Faithfull, that mirrors the minimal silhouettes, and earthy colour palette, of the stylist's own wardrobe.

Alexis Foreman has also collaborated with Asceno, another brand that does swimwear, and summer dressing, with an ease that you'll very much want to emulate. The AF x Asceno co-ords, available in espresso, white and black, are made from materials that will feel cool against the skin (the silk-twill tunic and matching pants set is particularly tantalising).

Keep scrolling to see which co-ords suit which occasions, although, truthfully, anything that feels comfortable will also look chic. And in this weather, that will be music to most ears.

Holiday Co-Ords

Sarah Corbett-Winder's takes a "pile it on" approach to holiday dressing, but grounds the look with this checked two-piece—also from Faithfull. A shirt-and-shorts set is another tried-and-tested co-ord when you're by the beach, allowing you to separate the components and make them work harder (it's not their holiday!) with everything in your suitcase.

Evening Co-Ords

A knitted co-ord works especially well after the sun has set when you might otherwise need a layer. The Monikh x Faithfull collaboration has a plum duo—a slouchy knit that drops off one shoulder plus a maxi skirt—that will be effortless to wear but still make an impact.

Office Co-Ords

The office can be an oasis of air-conditioning during the hottest weeks of summer, but you have to get there in one piece. Ironically, a two-piece might be the slickest way to do heatwave workwear; a shirt-and-skirt set being a particularly good option that you can pair with simple leather sandals.

Weekend Co-Ords

Many of the above co-ords will be suitable for off-duty, but the truly savvy will shop for a versatile set that can be worn multiple ways (a minidress that can also double as a top or subtly-tailored linen pants that can be styled with their partner or any of your other button-downs).

Be honest, did you actually invest in the novelty bag trend last summer? No? Well, if a giant slice of pizza, a milk bottle or a plastic pigeon didn't make it into your real-life wardrobe—and I'm a fan, for the record, but I understand the trepidation—this season's take on the statement bag may feel more approachable.

Think, less shapes you'd find at the back of the fridge, more fringing, bold colours and prints that make even the simplest look feel more fitting for summer.

These new novelty bags also span a whole spectrum of statement-making comfort zones. On the more maximalist end, starfish and fish shapes—Simon Miller and Serpui make particularly beautiful versions—sit alongside Chloé's almost sold-out toucan, replacing last year's bestselling banana handle.

While the slightly safer side sees bold stripes, fun fringing and, more often than not, the merging of both in still-statement yet considerably more practical territory. Fendi, Aquazzura and Anya Hindmarch are just a handful of luxury labels leaning into the look, and they're being picked up by some of the best-dressed women on the internet as one easy way to liven up any outfit.

A simple black maxi dress, denim shorts and a white shirt, or a bikini and cover-up all look considerably more interesting with a rainbow raffia swinging from your arm, after all.

Scroll on for our edit of the most statement bags worth investing in this summer.

Shop Statement Summer Bags

With a heatwave settling over much of the UK, what did you learn from our last hot spell? Not to wear knee-high boots (I don't know how the girlies do it)? Switching your baseball cap for a sweat-wicking bandana scarf? Both are excellent takeaways but my area of interest has shifted to denim. It's such a staple for many of us that it feels wrong to exclude the fabric as soon as temperatures soar. But how can you sport it and not feel dizzyingly hot?

The A-list has come up with several answers. Firstly, Zoey Deutch's baggy jeans in an elegant indigo shade. I know, I know, wearing jeans that might pool at your ankles, adding extra inches that need to be dragged around, sounds like the opposite of heatwave-approved but, trust us (or Deutch), it's actually a more cooling way to wear jeans than anything more tailored, especially if you follow her advice about what to pair them with (more on that later). And P.S. Dark denim will hide any unwanted sweat marks and, ultimately, look far chicer than anything mid-blue or bleached.

Secondly, Bermuda shorts (or jorts), which have been trending for the past few summers and, surely, need no introduction. Again, they're slightly looser on the leg, allowing for crucial air circulation, but still have a tailored cut that's suitable for work, especially if you opt for a dark-blue denim.

Lastly, Rihanna's favourite: capri pants, denim edition. These are slimline but can also be paired with barely-there tops for balance (think, whisper-thin silks or cowl-neck halters) and ankle-tie heels for a look that's perfect for heatwave date nights (fiery, indeed!).

Baggy Jeans

Baggy jeans in a heatwave?! An understandable question/exclamation but here's the thing—you're always going to be hot when it's a heatwave, and if you still want to wear denim, you should know that a baggier cut might have more fabric but with crucial wiggle room on the leg, thanks to a wide-leg cut, it's going to feel a lot more cooling than a straight or skinny fit. Of course, it matters what you wear it with. Enter Zoey Deutch, whose ribbed tank and heeled flip-flops felt like a no-muss, no-fuss take paired with indigo turn-up jeans.

Bermuda Shorts

Instead of short-shorts, Bermudas have the edge this summer, especially pairs with a gentle flare or indigo wash like Ella Hunt's. Find a smart Bermuda, like the below pleat-front pair by COS, and you can most definitely wear them to work, tucking in a white shirt or knitted tank for a polished but positively cool outfit forecast.

Denim Capri Pants

Rihanna used to wear capris in the early '00s—and, 20 years later, nothing's changed except the fact that, now, she pairs them with the ultimate combination: double dark denim. It's a super-cool spin on a trouser suit—don't you think?—and, while you might not be able to wear the top half during a heatwave, it's a duo that's perfect for sultry evenings.

Zendaya is the opposite of a "smug married", except on last night's red carpet for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which took place in a meltingly-hot Paris, she had every right to be; not so much because of her husband but because of what she had chosen to wear: a gorgeously oversized T-shirt. Vintage, and naturally depicting the film's titular superhero, it was cool in both senses of the word; a lesson in undone summer dressing and not trying too hard.

The vintage T-shirt—or, in some cases, the vintage-esque T-shirt—is proving to be a hot-girl saviour this summer (especially if you dress it up with a pair of jelly shoes or smouldering heels). Jennifer Lawrence's off-duty wardrobe revolves around a rotation of tees—one of which pledges her allegiance to Mickey Mouse—which she pairs with elevated joggers or studded pants.

Alexa Chung is known for her vintage nous but, also, her "outfitcam" selfies that she's been posting on Instagram, most of which include what is a graphic or slogan tee (that's either vintage or has a lived-in look) from her extension collection.

Teaming hers with the ideal heatwave bottom half—fluid slips that grace the mid-calf—Chung makes a (very convincing) case for re-embracing the vintage-looking T-shirt, an item of clothing that might have defined your early '00s wardrobe if you were obsessed with the Olsens.

Vestiaire Collective's T-shirt section carries a wealth of pre-loved designer tees, but, really, your best bet is probably hanging in your local charity shop or nearest vintage boutique. And like Zendaya, who chose a motif that meant something to her, the best tee will telegraph something about your personality, whether that's your favourite band or cartoon character.

Shop The Best "Vintage" T-Shirts

Jelly and ice cream, Jellycat toys, even jellied eels—jelly is the prefix of many a beloved item, and fashion has just added another to the list: jelly heels.

Following the wider jelly shoe trend that took over the feet of the coolest dressers last summer—their origins traceable back through the 80s, 90s and early 00s—the jelly heel is a more refined, sophisticated take on the classic plastic pump or flip flop. Still injecting a good deal of fun into any outfit, naturally. But now, luxury labels are leading the charge.

The launch currently garnering the most attention? Jimmy Choo's Jelly Drop 50—a sporty, retro-inspired jelly heeled sandal worthy of any Y2K Pinterest board. The glitter style, especially. Barbara Palvin just stepped out in a pair in Cannes and I haven't gone a day without seeing them on my Instagram feed since.

Then there's the Chloé Ruched TPU Mule, plucked straight from the label's Spring/Summer 26 runway, which counts Iris Law, Tessa Thompson and a considerable number of other well-dressed women among its fans. Farm Rio's jelly heel strappy sandal feels even more eye-catching. And Tory Burch's heeled flip flop has been given a very welcome jellified upgrade. All furthering my point: jelly heels are having a huge moment.

Though each one is considerably more polished than the chunky plastic gladiators that last summer gave way to—and the styling has followed suit accordingly. Midi skirts and vest tops, capri pants and shirts, a failsafe jeans-and-T-shirt combination. The more pared-back the outfit, the further the jelly heels will go to add interest.

Scroll on for the jelly heels worth shopping now. Proof that grown-up dressing and a bit of fun are not, in fact, mutually exclusive.

Shop Jelly Heels

Quick, easy yet impactful styling tips appear to be dominating the Marie Claire search bar right now, and no matter how different our jobs, homes and daily lives may be, it seems we're all united by one thing: everyone is a bit too busy. Though that doesn't make the repeat wear of favourite jeans and a cami, or a go-to slip dress and sandals, feel any more exciting. So we search for small dressing details that can make even the simplest outfit feel that bit more striking, and right now, the coolest dressers are reaching for one elevated accessory: the headscarf.

Any avid runway watcher will have spotted the silk scarf making an appearance at many a Spring/Summer 26 show earlier this year at Zimmermann, Tod's, Calvin Klein and Ferragamo, to name but a few. It was only a matter of time before the look filtered into the real world. Though, as with any trend that makes its way onto social media, it's been adapted to meet many a personal styling demand.

While some chic dressers still reach for silk headscarves—plenty of which were spotted last summer too—crochet and cotton headscarves are proving equally popular, with a myriad of prints and colours to suit every kind of personal style and outfit. All of which pair especially well with the equally trending bug-eye sunglasses, truly evoking that '70s feel.

Think Pucci-esque prints or bold polka dots for those wanting to go bold, delicate Broderie anglaise for a more minimalist approach, and crochet and lace details for those leaning into romantic summer dressing. Nine of the most investment-worthy are listed below. And do have a bobby pin or two to hand, as it will make the whole thing considerably less faff. Trust me on that one.

Shop Headscarves:

Some trending items come under criticism—balloon trousers, we're looking at you—but there is something about a white dress that resists over analysis. It simply works. Has always worked. Will, in all likelihood, continue to work long after every other trend has had its moment and quietly retreated. Which is why, every summer without fail, the white dress earns its place at the top of the moodboard, though subtle shifts in cut can make it feel considerably more of the moment.

This season, the shape to know is the trapeze cut: generous, unstructured and entirely unbothered. Comfortable, sleek and surprisingly easy to style. Shell-themed jewellery, bug-eyed sunglasses and lace-up sandals take it into boho territory, as do black flip flops and a headscarf. Add a polished pump and structured bag, and it's suddenly rather more formal and office-appropriate.

Also gaining traction are pared-back minis that fall squarely into Euro Summer territory—especially in a natural fibre such as cotton or linen—a shirt dress for office environments and a 90s-style silk slip. Prints and textures are largely taking a back seat, keeping the cut and the white itself as the focal point. Just look to the women at the Monaco Grand Prix for proof.

The whole effect is part St Tropez, part Roman holiday, part simply got dressed without thinking too hard about it. Which is, of course, exactly what it should look like, even if the reality involved considerably more deliberation than anyone would care to admit.

What we're really shopping for is the kind of dress you'll still be reaching for in five years. Faff-free and failsafe. Eleven of the best are below.

Shop Trending White Dresses

Colour-averse, look away. The shade combination quietly filtering through the most fashionable wardrobes this summer strays far from minimalist territory, combining colour-blocked primaries of bold blue and rich red in a pairing that’s unexpected yet striking in its simplicity.

As with many key trends, it began gaining traction on the runway, most notably in the Spring/Summer 26 collections of Loewe, Celine and Miu Miu—evidence that the pairing can feel far removed from any classic school-uniform aesthetic.

Since then, it has been adopted by both minimalist and maximalist dressers alike, depending on how you choose to style it. Take Monikh Dale's blue tee and red flip flop look—a subtle way to weave the bolder tones into your wardrobe. Naomi Ackie took a similar approach, with red shoes proving one of the easiest ways to inject a pop of personality into any look. Flavia Stuttgen recently showed how this vibrant colour pairing can work on holiday too with a blue and red embellished swimsuit by Staud.

Accessories offer an equally simple yet statement-making route in: a bag, headscarf—quickly becoming the go-to accessory of the best-dressed women we know, for the record—sunglasses or jewellery. For those ready to clash the clothing colours themselves, a couple of guidelines are worth keeping in mind.

Red and blue may seem like very different shades, but choosing them in similar richness will make an outfit feel more cohesive. Think a bold blue with a rich red, or two equally muted tones, rather than mixing intensity levels.

A white vest, trouser or tee will always help bring the two together more seamlessly. And if full colour blocking feels like a step too far, use one piece as an opportunity to drape: a red top tied around the waist or a blue shirt shrugged over the shoulders feels a little less intimidating if you're new to experimenting with statement shades.

Most importantly, it pays to go bold. If you're bored of playing it safe with neutrals, consider this your starting point for a more colourful summer wardrobe. Below, five pairings to act as inspiration.

Shop Red and Blue Style Pairings

If Loewe's pre-fall campaign feels like the piece missing from your summer dressing puzzle—with visuals that feature a man facing the sea; a gentle breeze lifting the vertically-striped shirt tied around his waist to expose a tantalising hint of under-cheek—you're not alone. But as well as this reference, there's another one that feels very on-point for summer 2026; the repositioning of stripes as not just the print but the only print when temperatures rise.

Photographed by Talia Chetrit, several of the images (shot with a backdrop of ocean or stacked sun-loungers) feature a preppy deckchair stripe; a scene-stealing pattern that feels very high-summer. Since then, the stripe has dusted itself off, cropping up repeatedly in decidedly chic settings—and reminding us all why it's a classic for a reason.

The Breton, no surprises there, has emerged as the seasonal favourite once again. At the Cannes Film Festival, Anais Demoustier wore a striped rugby T-shirt—comprising navy blue and butter yellow—at the photocall for La Vénus Electrique; a sporty take on the Breton.

Influencer Alexis Foreman has also been championing the Breton, with a limoncello version that gave the piece something of a twist from Matteau. While you can stick to what you know with a navy-and-white Breton, this summer pushes the stripe ever-so-slightly out of its comfort zone, whether that's with a variegated pattern or with a punchier colour palette like Foreman's.

It has been impossible to miss striped jeans and trousers on Instagram, with the trend emerging as one of the easiest ways to introduce colour into your wardrobe with minimal effort. For inspiration on styling bold striped trousers in a way that still feels effortless, look to Maria de la Orden, co-founder of the Barcelona-based La Veste. Her signature Pippi trousers are available in 11 different colour combinations and have become a favourite among the fashion set. Meanwhile, Blair Eadie has long made colourful dressing her calling card. If there's a striped piece worth knowing about, chances are she's already wearing it. Seen here in an off-the-shoulder dress by Staud, she demonstrates another easy way to embrace the trend for summer occasions.

Perhaps that is the secret behind stripes' return for summer 2026. As our lives become increasingly busy, pieces that simplify the getting-dressed process are exactly what we're gravitating towards—and few trends work harder than stripes.

Shop our Stripes edit:

The Breton, Revisited

Striped Dresses

Not as ubiquitous as its floral counterpart, the striped dress still has form during summer. And this year, resortwear brands have backed the print, from Cala de la Cruz, which has actually combined florals and stripes on a graphic mini dress, to Staud, which has given a long-sleeved knit cover-up a bold vertical stripe in shades of turquoise, canary and brown.

Striped Shorts

Loewe's campaign made a (very convincing) case for striped shorts—and there's plenty of versions on shop floors with a similar vibe (pretty yet playful). Lido's elasticated waist and primary-coloured stripes are particularly fun, while Reformation's Bermudas, which are slightly more subtle, are 10/10 chic. (Psst: Even if your striped shorts don't have a paperbag waist like Loewe's, you can still size up, roll up the cuffs so the white pocket linings peek out. Clever, no?)

Striped Trousers

A striped trouser doesn't have to mean boardroom suiting. Having said that, Toteme's reverse pinstripe is particularly novel on a balloon-leg silhouette—don't you think? Elsewhere, Mango's wide-legged, and wide-striped jeans take a different—but no less interesting approach—with the kind of personality that means the rest of your outfit can take the day off.

Striped Totes

Unless you're ready to go all in and mix clashing stripes (it is summer, after all), why not ease into the trend with a bright tote bag paired with your existing summer outfits?

It might be a touch masochistic—spying on the holidays of the A-list, whether they've chartered a private yacht or set up camp on a fabulously sultry island—but it can also be a useful research exercise, a fact-finding mission that will help you decide to what to buy for your own out-of-office (or heatwave) wardrobe.

The VIP getaway to prick my antennae most recently belonged to Net-a-Porter, whose CEO, Heather Kaminetsky, co-hosted a weekend with Catherine Holstein, founder and chief creative officer of Khaite, in Florence. The occasion? A celebration of an exclusive capsule, which is now available to shop on Net-a-Porter, as well as the reopening of Villa San Michele (Belmond-owned, it's just undergone an extension renovation).

The takeaway—as well as the timeless beauty of Tuscany, of course—is that sheer is (once again) a trend worth bookmarking this summer, especially the grown-up takes spotted on the weekend's celebrity guest list. Gemma Chan wore a sleeveless column gown that, actually, didn't show any skin courtesy of a slip that created a triangle of exposed skin, adding interest with just a whisper. Alexa Chung packed a mint-green strappy top, which came pleasingly ruched and, again, didn't shout but merely suggested what lay beneath. (Incidentally, Da'Vine Joy Randolph beat them both to it at the premiere of Euphoria, styling out a black lace two-piece—a peplum-waisted top and kick-flare trousers—with the merest hint of sheer.)

It's hard to imagine a better way to style out the heat (at home or in Florence), where you can be covered up but still feel cool and have a hint of skin on show. This is how to wear sheer everywhere—in the office (as long as it's layered over something opaque), out for dinner and on holiday, maximising its potential for elegance while keeping things easy. And, interestingly, this version of sheer—grown-up and subtly attention-grabbing instead of "naked"—arrived on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival.

Riley Keough's Chanel "suit"—a three-piece look that comprised of a button-down top, a knee-length skirt and a crew-neck jacket, all made of a gossamer-fine material that almost seemed invisible (and certainly must have felt like it)—was a modern take on the sheer trend, and, with an in-built triangle bra and chic boxer shorts, did not rely on revealing but concealing.

For a slightly more practical, everyday approach, choose a solid pair of shorts with a bra top and a loose, sheer shirt. There are varying degrees of translucency to choose from, depending on your preference, because confidence goes hand-in-hand with comfort where sheer is concerned. Alternatively, a layered organza dress is a smarter option for the office. While neutral tones can feel a little too undressed, choosing a bold shade of red and pairing it with minimalist sandals creates a low-lift, high-impact outfit.

It's still not an easy trend to buy into but pick the right pieces—i.e. ones that mean you can still wear a bra underneath (and not just a wireless triangle style)—and you'll almost certainly find they're surprisingly versatile. Blouses or button-downs are one of the best entry points into sheer, particularly styles that are breathable enough to accommodate something underneath like this asymmetric cape from Massimo Dutti, which you could easily slip over a silk dress or camisole to create wafty layers. Dissh's organza-silk top, with a simple round neck that contrasts with its drop-waist peplum hem for drama, is more than semi-sheer but could so easily be styled over a bandeau-style bra (preferably the same colour as the blouse, which comes in black, chocolate or beige, so that it doesn't stand out) or a more sporty crop top if you prefer something with straps.

I would personally avoid totally sheer trousers or skirts—which do exist!—but you can dabble in skirts that are basically a mini and midi, with a translucent panel at the hemline (Reformation's column style, which is opaque until approximately the mid-thigh then sheer all the way to the ankle, is more than appropriate for on- and off-duty).

Revealing just a whisper, and concealing plenty too, the sheer trend might be your ticket to glamour in Tuscany—or, frankly, wherever—this summer.

Shop The Best Sheer Pieces

There's no shortage of beautiful sights to take in while lounging on the beach at D Maris Bay in south-western Türkiye. Floating islands, crystal-clear waters and rolling mountains as far as the eye can see. And yet my eyes keep drifting downwards—because the 2026 summer sandal season has officially begun, and it seems every single one of the glamorous guests here has had a head start. Spoiler: Hermès Oran sandals are still very much in circulation, though last year's bold black and orange have been swapped for softer beige and cream.

They aren't, however, the only sandals working their way into the wardrobes of the coolest European summer dressers. Far from it. There are, though, a handful of key categories that are clearly having a moment this season. Flip flops, for one—the unassuming staple that now spans every price point, from The Row's chunky-soled style (a firm favourite among luxury fashion devotees) to the classic Havaianas, spotted here at the beach bar in almost every shade imaginable, even on those toting a Chanel beach bag. Red being my personal favourite.

Then there are the sleek slides—the family the Hermès Oran belongs to. The minimalist sandal I'm personally sporting right now, Ancient Greek Sandals being my longstanding go-to. And the fisherman sandal, which the coolest dressers here have unanimously reached for—particularly come lunch and dinner. They work especially well with a jean.

Simply consider me your on-the-ground sandal correspondent, because it's always the stylish early holidaymakers who end up on the summer dressing moodboard first.

Just scroll on for the styles worth investing in this season. Each versatile enough to work with jeans, dresses, skirts or the lace-trim shorts currently having their moment. The key to a great sandal investment, after all, is how versatile they are in your summer wardrobe.

Best Flat Sandals of 2026

Best Flip Flops

Best Slides

Best Gladiator Sandals

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Fuller busts and swimwear have long had a tumultuous relationship, with spaghetti strap, barely-there bikini designs simply not built to offer much support, and D+ cups needing considerably more of it. Picture: unflattering shapes, flimsy fabrics and underwires with a tendency to poke. Not ideal.

In recent years, however, larger-chested women have rightfully demanded more and the industry has listened, largely through smaller labels specialising in D cup and above swimwear that still feels genuinely sleek. Take Form and Fold, Monday Swimwear and Tona Swimwear. Or bigger household brands as Bravissimo and Heidi Klein among those leading the charge.

The key features to look out for: "discreet, carefully considered design details; from mesh lining and side boning to wider straps that provide lift and comfort," says Heidi Gosman, founder and creative director of Heidi Klein. For standout styles, these should slot seamlessly into the design without overpowering it, offering exceptional support without compromising on style. Think sculpting, supportive fabrics that hug and hold rather than restrict.

As Gosman rightly points out, swimwear is often the least amount of clothing you'll wear in public, which makes choosing a style you feel confident in all the more important. Below, the brands helping you do exactly that.

The 6 Best Stylish and Supportive Swimwear Brands For A Fuller Bust

Monday Swimwear

Fashion Editor Clem Jackson recently wrote "Monday Swimwear has been nothing short of a game-changer for my holiday wardrobe," within her feature celebrating the brand as one of the best swimwear choices for those with bigger busts.

"The LA-based brand is one of the (pitifully) few that prioritises fit above all else, dedicating extensive resources to fitting tops to every cup size and manufacturing them accordingly—rather than simply scaling up from a size S, like the rest of the industry," she adds. Noting: "This means that their pieces are designed to actually fit different cup sizes, with the majority going up to an F-cup, and many in a G, too."

And with countless tagged images of women wearing (and it seems, loving) their pieces, Clem is far from alone in her assessment.

Heidi Klein

Heidi Gosman, founder and creative director of Heidi Klein, tells me that each swimwear style is fitted "at least seven times to ensure the most flattering and comfortable cut possible." The label has a specifically tailored fuller bust range with seamless additional support built in—larger straps, a bigger surface area, boning and power mesh included.

The same minimalist shapes span the entire range, with the bestselling U-Bar Halterneck a popular choice for larger busts, and an extensive selection of bolder prints and patterns to choose from. Tops and bottoms can also be bought separately.

Form and Fold

With hundreds of five-star reviews—particularly for the Line Top and the One Black—Form and Fold is a D+ cup exclusive swimwear brand that's one of the best-kept secrets for those with a fuller chest. By specialising in larger bust cuts, the brand has carved out a clear niche in the market and takes quality and performance seriously. Each Form and Fold piece is sampled 20 times during production, and a 90-second online fit calculator helps ensure you shop the right size.

The selection of colours and shapes may be small, but expect sleek designs across both bikinis and swimsuits, with classic colour palettes ranging from black and white to a particularly pretty cactus green.

"This is my second Form and Fold swimsuit and they are the best available for the more well-endowed out there," reads one review from customer Jess M, a 36E, adding: "Perfect level of support whilst still being stylish, and it's buttery soft." Anna D, a 38F, wrote: "I spend a lot of time in the water and have tried on what feels like hundreds of swimsuits. I always find I'm popping out or having to wear non-swimwear to feel secure. I honestly was expecting it to be a let-down but I nearly cried after putting this on for the first time. Feel so confident, holds me where I need, and looks amazing." High praise indeed.

Tona Swimwear

I once asked a particularly well-dressed, large-busted friend which swimwear brand she most trusted, and Tona Swimwear was the answer. Created by fashion editor and stylist Tona Stell with the aim of championing all bodies and providing contemporary designs that embrace every shape, the label stocks sizes 30D to 38FF.

All samples are created as a size 16 and FF cup—ideal for those with larger busts. And despite being a small brand, the range of prints on offer is impressive, making it a great choice for those who prefer bolder patterns and colours. You can also shop tops and bottoms separately to ensure you always get the right fit.

Bravissimo

The internet, or now perhaps ChatGPT, is where most of us turn first with burning questions. Even the non-essential ones, like what to make for dinner. So, to save you the typing: the answer most likely to come up is Bravissimo (which also stocks the well-loved label Panache). With countless five-star reviews, customer testimonials and more than a few friends of mine singing its praises, it's easily one of the most-loved swimwear brands for fuller busts.

Writing about the Paloma Swimsuit, Rachel R, a 36G, says: "Beautiful design that is so comfortable and supportive—great to have a swimsuit that I can properly swim in, keeps me all tucked in and doesn't squash my boobs." Morgan H, a 34H, says of the Copacabana Plunge Bikini: "This is the best bikini ever! Fits perfectly for my size. Highly recommend this shop for bigger-chested girlies!"

Even if you don't count yourself as a "dress person" from September-May, there's something about a summer dress that can't help but tantalise. No doubt because it seems to promise not just good but glorious weather, but also, perhaps, because it signals a break, however fleeting, from the usual grind.

Instead of everyday neutrals, you can slip into a printed summer dress that features polka dots and florals, a double whammy that can only mean one thing—it's holiday time (although you could equally wear it into the office with neat ballet pumps). And if, of course, a pared-back colour palette is your comfort zone, you can opt for interest elsewhere with, say, a slinky knit dress that finishes in fringe.

Whatever you choose—from a lace-trimmed slip that's whisper-fine for sultry temperatures or an easy-breezy jersey T-shirt—the fastest way to make it work almost 24/7 is by pairing it with sandals; a flat during the day and a heel, however modest, at night.

Keep scrolling to see the 10 summer dress and sandal pairings that get our vote as temperatures start rising.

Shop The Best Summer Dress And Sandal Pairings

The worst part of a holiday is the airport—from late o'clock packing to squeezing your toiletries into a resealable plastic bag so that everyone at security is privy to your favourite eye cream. It doesn't have to be this way, however. The airport can be part of the fun—within reason—and you also can be one of those people who breeze through departures with a no-muss, no-fuss attitude, their minimal shell tote (Valesque) perched on top of their ridged aluminium carry-on (Rimowa).

This won't happen overnight but, instead, by taking advice from the experts. These frequent fliers know a thing or two about travelling in style, with in-flight beauty routines you can perform at 30,000ft and advice for how to pack light but also pack right.

These are the six rules to live by when it comes to not enduring but acing your next airport journey.

Find Your Favourite Suitcase

Luggage is luggage, right? Not necessarily. From the weight of its shell to its lining, everyone has different specifications when it comes to suitcases. For influencer Michelle Lin, it's Antler, which has light hard shell designs as well as expandable options. "It’s so practical and chic at the same time," Lin says about her trusty cabin bag. Amalie Gassmann's pick is Away. "I have been using them for years! They roll smoothly and, for someone who checks more than one suitcase, they are light and practical." Marie Claire's Fashion Director Lily Russo-Bah recently discovered Australian label July and I'm obsessed. "The Checked Trunk suitcase has a more traditional 80/20 opening, which means one side is deeper and actually fits on a standard luggage stand in a hotel room. I often find myself putting my suitcase on my crisp white bed sheets in order to often it up fully, which is far from ideal or hygienic."

Streamline Your Toiletries

Whether you're packing a cabin-bag only or multiple suitcases, you always need to start with as little weight as possible. Gassmann's tip is to streamline your toiletries; "skincare products add so much weight," she says, adding that her solution is to "pack what is almost done and samples". Pureseoul, the famous home of K-Beauty, actually has a dedicated minis section; the perfect destination for picking up lotions and potions in 50ml bottles. Meanwhile, retailers such as Marks & Spencer offer dedicated summer beauty bags filled with everything from body cream to shampoo, conditioner, suncream and more — perfect for short getaways without having to pack your entire bathroom cabinet.

Pack In Strategic Outfits

Some travellers like conjuring an outfit from their suitcase with spontaneity but, in my experience, it's more expedient by far to pack in outfits, using tonal colours. You don't have to stick religiously to your strategy but it just means you'll naturally trim any fat. "I always think in outfits rather than individual pieces," says Hatt, who tends to lay everything out before packing. "If something doesn’t work in at least two outfits, it’s usually out." This makes so much sense; you don't want to pack a pair of trousers, say, that you know will only get one wear.

Don't Reach Capacity

If you hit your weight limit of 23kg, that might cause you a headache if you buy any souvenirs (even a fridge magnet or novelty shot glass could tip you over the edge). And anyway, utilitising your suitcase without stuffing each side will give you space, physically and perhaps even metaphysically. " I like to give my clothes space to breathe," says Hatt, who also, on the subject of expedient packing, always packs a spare dust bag for laundry.

Dust bags or zip up pouches are similarly great for keeping things organised if you're not into the idea of packing cubes, although don't knock them until you've tried them (Antler's come in sets of four, all of which can fit inside its medium suitcase, as well as six).

Prepare For All Temperatures On Board

Most fliers have their own definition of "the perfect outfit". The only non-negotiable is layers in case of temperature fluctuations. "I find myself wearing a comfy tee and a pair of loose drawstring linen trousers on long flights most of the time, plus a jumper to carry over my shoulders," says Lin. "Walking in the airport always makes me so warm, then being on the flight could be absolutely freezing. I find this outfit combo can easily adapt to any quick change of temperature!" Everyone's layers are different though. "I like to be comfortable but still feel like myself which is usually a black pant, a knit sweater, ballerinas and a scarf, as well as a long coat!" says Gassmann, who also puts some thought into what to wear in order to save as much space as possible in her luggage. "Jackets take so much space," she laments, adding: "I usually wear my heaviest one to the airport and pack an evening blazer that will go with a lot of looks!"

Prepare Your Inflight Essentials

Your full skincare regimen whilst in transit might be overkill, but a few choice products, will save space and are small enough to carry onboard, especially to counter the effects of dehydration (as well as, obviously, drinking water). "Hydration is the focus so a good moisturiser, from The Ordinary, and Vaseline, as my lip balm, are go-tos. I don’t tend to do anything elaborate, just enough to feel a bit more like myself when I land," says Hatt.

Any avid Marie Claire reader—and we know who you are—might remember us dubbing the quarter-zip jumper one of this year's most covetable items. It seems Ayo Edebiri has just confirmed our suspicions. Stepping out in New York in a full Chanel Métiers d'Art look that's yet to land in stores, the actress and comedian showed us just how versatile this menswear staple can be.

You might instinctively pair the knit with jeans or wide-leg trousers—but here she makes a strong case for skirt styling, lifting the full look straight from the runway. Save for a bolder silver shoe and the newly covetable Chanel small flap bag that Dua Lipa and Jennie are already known fans of.

It's an outfit that works particularly well for this tricky transeasonal moment—too cold to go jacket-free, yet too warm (and far too depressing) to be reaching back for the cosier coats. It also feels especially apt for the office, mixing a casual staple with polished pieces for something that's a little more fun without sacrificing formality. Consider it firmly on the Spring/Summer dressing moodboard.

Below, three ways to make it your own—whether you're all-in on the navy, drawn to a punchy poppy red, or keeping things slightly more casual in cream. Colour-blocking makes the whole thing all the more impactful, after all.

3 Ways To Recreate Ayo's Quarter Zip Outfit

Neat Navy

Navy has the rare ability to feel both smart and a little less severe than classic black—making it an easy go-to for almost any occasion. This outfit formula builds on the sleek shade with lighter-toned accessories to lift the look, and works just as well for a formal office as it does a business-casual event.

Polished Preppy

If navy isn't quite your colour and you're after something brighter, consider poppy red—the shade that dominated the Spring/Summer 26 runways of Celine, Loewe, Proenza Schouler, Chanel and more. To keep it feeling polished, reach for a pencil skirt, pointed-kitten heel, a bubble-hem skirt and and statement accessories.

Modern Pastels

While Ayo Edebiri's quarter-zip Chanel look feels particularly polished, the beauty of this formula is that it translates just as well in a more casual direction. Swap the preppy wool knit for a sportswear-inspired style, trade the work-friendly pumps for a low mule and add oversized sunglasses for an effortlessly cool finish.

When it comes to sophisticated yet modern workwear, Mariko Kuo is a constant source of inspiration. With 171K followers, the corporate lawyer regularly shares contemporary styling ideas that go beyond the ordinary. As part of our Marie Claire Masters series, Mariko shares her love for Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's style, and the key takeaways she has carried through to her own wardrobe.

If the return of ’90s minimalism has taught me anything, it’s that restraint can be powerful, especially at work. I keep coming back to Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, whose approach to dressing feels like a masterclass in polished, modern workwear that still feels entirely of the moment.

Long before “quiet luxury” and “capsule wardrobes” became shorthand for understated dressing, Carolyn Bessette was building a professional uniform that balanced authority with ease. Looking through her iconic looks from her Calvin Klein days, her wardrobe feels even more relevant now than ever: clean tailoring, muted tones, and silhouettes that exude confidence while still feeling rooted in a kind of quiet ease.

So how do you translate that into a modern workwear wardrobe? It starts with a tightly edited colour palette. For workwear, that means anchoring everything in black, white and neutral tones. These shades don’t just mix and match seamlessly; they create a sense of calm control that feels intentional and simply put together.

And then there’s the intangible element: composure. Carolyn Bessette’s style worked because it was worn with certainty. Nothing felt overthought, yet everything appeared deliberate. In a workplace context, I think that translates to dressing in a way that allows you to focus on your work, not your outfit. It communicates competence without needing to announce it.

Maybe that’s the true takeaway from Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s enduring influence: great workwear doesn’t chase attention—it earns it. Scroll on to see my four Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy-inspired workwear outfit formulas.

4 Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy-inspired outfit formulas:

1. Tailoring

Tailoring and clean structural lines do most of the heavy lifting. The ’90s silhouette leaned slightly oversized, so I think it’s really about finding a precise blazer to pull it all together. Worn with straight or gently tapered trousers cut to skim the shoe, it creates an instantly intentional uniform that I find myself relying on again and again.

Shop the look:

2. Dresses

Dresses have their place too, but they follow the same rules. A simple, bias-cut midi in a neutral tone can move easily from desk to dinner. For me, it’s one of those strategic pieces that introduces a bit of softness and femininity without ever feeling out of place in an office setting. I tend to keep layering minimal, a structured coat or a streamlined blazer is usually enough — paired with strappy sandals or a clean shoulder bag.

Shop the look:

3. White Shirt

It’s impossible to talk about Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy without mentioning her shirts. A crisp white button-down, worn with the top buttons undone, is probably the easiest way to tap into this look at work. Minimal layering can really pull the look together, like a structured coat or a streamlined blazer teamed with strappy sandals and a clean shoulder bag.

Shop the look:

4. Evening

The same simplicity carries through to eveningwear as well. For office functions or black-tie events, a beautifully cut A-line dress or a strapless top with a silk slip skirt can instantly create a polished and sophisticated feel.

Shop the look:

An off-calendar catwalk show in a far-flung location is often associated with high fashion—your Chanels, your Diors—but, as of last night, Marks & Spencer flipped the script, live-streaming its inaugural runway from the island of Ibiza. And that's not all. The high-street stalwart already caused a sensation earlier this year when it announced a very special appointment: Gillian Anderson, and whose campaign went on to become the highest-performing M&S Clothing ad ever tested by System1, a marketing effectiveness company that measures the impact of advertising campaigns.

As Anderson is unavailable to compère, as it were, M&S has found a game replacement in everyone’s favourite date, Amelia Dimoldenberg, who is none other than the general manager of Casa del Compliments, M&S’s home away from home and the location for its show—described as “a home of confidence and connection”.

M&S has always been a high-street hero, but what it's managed to do, in an economic climate that is challenging many retailers, is build on its customer base's goodwill, with marketing nous and product that is not only desirable but affordable too, with half the womenswear summer collection £30 or under.

My most stylish friends know that you don't just buy pants, and Percy Pigs, at M&S. Its suede loafers, with the gathered edge that was very Saint Laurent-coded, were almost impossible to get on your hands. Ditto its retro sneakers; which achieved the streamlined cut of something by Miu Miu. Coupled with its penny-bazaar heritage dating back to 1884, as well as its ability to be an uncontroversial bastion of Britishness, M&S seems to have recovered from its own annus horribilis in 2025, after a disastrous cyber attack.

It's also managed to maintain its sense of humour, hence its fashion show being a personable affair instead of something po-faced. Personable might not do justice, in fact, to Dimoldenberg. As the press release states, with just a hint of mirth, "From keeping a close eye on guest satisfaction to making sure nothing goes unnoticed, she’ll be everywhere. [...] Bringing her unmistakable warmth, wit and wholehearted commitment to every corner of the Casa, Amelia will put compliments firmly centre stage." "Love that" is not just a throwaway remark but the whole trip's mantra, extending into the warmer months, which, at least in the world of M&S, are tantamount not so much to a "summer of love" but a "summer of love that". (It also follows the "Love That Drop", which launched earlier this season to much acclaim).

This British sense of humour is charming, but it wouldn’t be as successful if the product didn’t stand up. Womenswear Director Maddy Evans, who is credited with driving the retailer’s fashion transformation since taking on the role in 2022, has done the impossible: she has made M&S a genuine high-street competitor for trend-driven customers without alienating its existing base. From the considered fabrics and easy fit of many styles to the additional details and embellishments—and, most crucially, the inclusive size range—ticking all these boxes is no mean feat.

Whether you're looking out for some new swimwear, coverups or easy summer dresses to take you from the school drop-off to the office, followed by a rooftop evening, this summer, you can now shop at M&S for all of the above.

With live shopping also being a recent trend, and over 1/3 of customers looking to social media and influencers they follow for inspiration, another canny move is for customers to both watch, and buy, in real time during the streaming of the show.

Being future-facing, while still embracing its heritage as everyone's favourite shop to "pop" into for posh biscuits ahead of your in-laws visiting or to browse magazines, is what sets the brand apart from others. It's a retail pioneer—Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's lingerie range must be one of the first, and most longstanding, high-street collabs in history, not to mention block-bluster partnerships with the likes of Sienna Miller, Bella Freud and the Lionesses—but still cosy enough to still be your trusted "local", which in today's retail climate isn't just a clever tightrope walk but necessary for survival.

Shop Our Edit of the M&S Holiday Shop:

With the arrival of spring, our minds have fully shifted to summer, and as we begin making some clever additions to our warm-weather wardrobes, one of the easiest, low-lift investments to make is updating your summer shoe collection. Building a forever wardrobe that works for you and your lifestyle means investing in pieces you’ll return to year after year, and switching up your footwear is an easy way to make your outfits feel instantly refreshed.

Which is why we enlisted one of our most knowledgeable shoe connoisseurs, Marie Claire UK Master, Marilyn NK, to curate the ultimate summer shoe edit.

Marilyn is loved for her polished everyday style, mixing key designer investments with hero pieces from the high street. She has built a wardrobe full of items that are not only interchangeable, but also work as elevated eveningwear with the addition of the right accessories — as discovered when Marie Claire’s Fashion Director, Lily Russo-Bah, met her for a wardrobe tour.

As a heptathlete and content creator, Marilyn understands the importance of comfortable footwear that doesn’t compromise on style. A few styles that consistently feature on her feed are elevated trainers, the perfect everyday loafers and statement heels. But what is she buying and wearing for summer?

Below, Marilyn breaks down the ultimate summer styles to invest in now.

Shop Marilyn's Summer 2026 Shoe Edit

It's 2008. Karl Lagerfeld is still "The Kaiser". The Olsen twins are sitting front row at Chanel. And bug-eyed sunglasses are very much on the menu. In fact, Mary-Kate and Ashley, in a rare moment of accessories "twinning", are both wearing frames so enormous, so curvaceous, there's no word for them except "bug-eyed".

They might take inspiration from sunglasses in the '70s—Jackie Onassis' were particularly oversized, curving around her cheekbones and temples—but they famously had a renaissance in the early ’00s with a more symmetrical, spherical shape. Nicole Richie's boho-luxe makeover—by the queen of bug-eyed sunglasses Rachel Zoe—is still legendary: a pair of retro, pleasingly rounded frames was the finishing touch to most outfits.

Today's bug-eye sunglasses take up a similar real estate—totally eclipsing around one third of your face—and lean into their '70s heritage. Celine's Disc Sunglasses, first seen on the the catwalk for Spring/Summer 2026 are one of the best examples, with a temple length of 13cm and a set of sky-blue lenses. Tom Ford's, meanwhile, have thiner frames made of tortoiseshell acetate, the bug-eyed silhouette even more prominent courtesy of a delicately-formed bridge.

The key to wearing round sunglasses is similar to shield frames—i.e. not to overthink it. When Grece Ghanem packed hers for a recent holiday in Seoul, she wore them on repeat, with everything from blossom-printed sundresses to sporty layered knitwear, not letting their extroverted nature inhibit her styling. Meanwhile, in LA Aurora James leaned into their vintage-inspired tinted mood with a retro shift and wooden clogs.

Cool but not too calculated—and more glamorous than aviators or anything slimline—why not devote this summer to rediscovering bug-eye sunglasses?

Shop The Best Bug Eye Sunglasses

Salone del Mobile is famed as a key interiors event, drawing homeware and design lovers from across the globe. Yet this year, alongside the leading labels in lighting, kitchens, furnishings and stonework, sat a wicker hamper, laundry basket and basket bag—courtesy of JW Anderson and master Yeoman basket maker Eddie Glew of Blithfield Willowcrafts.

The message? A celebration of traditional techniques and materials. A stark contrast to the fast-paced world of consumption we currently live in. And, typically, it's sent basket bags trending once again.

"JW Anderson was the person behind the reinvention of the basket bag as a trend and luxury investment when he was at Loewe, so it simply makes sense that he spotlighted the piece and the craftsmanship that goes into crafting one at Salone del Mobile," says Marie Claire's fashion director Lily Russo-Bah.

The pieces on display at the Italian interiors event are currently available on the brand's website upon request. Plenty of other labels are also gaining traction, many of which have taken the classic stiff basket silhouette and reimagined it in more malleable, practical shapes, or swung towards softer raffia styles altogether. A true summer staple.

With Jane Birkin a known fan of the traditional basket bag and JW Anderson re-igniting its place in fashion today, it's little surprise they're considered an essential summer accessory.

Basket bags have long been the ultimate summer carry-all, effortlessly elevating any warm-weather outfit. Lightweight and packable, they're our go-to for sunshine getaways while bringing a holiday feel to everyday dressing in the city. Style one with light-wash denim and a blazer for an effortless office look, or pair it with your favourite bikini and cover-up for a chic beachside tote. For a nod to Jane Birkin, tie a silk scarf around the handle to personalise your look. Versatile and timeless, the basket bag is a summer staple you'll reach for again and again.

Below, the best basket bags for the season ahead—new shapes, fresh shades and bestselling styles, reshared for another summer in the sun.

Shop New Basket Bags

Sézane

COS

JW Anderson 

Loewe

Saint Laurent

Zara 

Jacquemeus

Miu Miu

There’s something to be said for the kind of accessory that’s so fabulous, so statement-making that it’s a flex all by itself, not just the ultimate finishing touch but a “one and done” style manoeuvre. Already this season, we've witnessed the impact of the Maison Celine belt in elevating every outfit, worn almost as a badge of honour, but next is a pair of sunglasses. Correction, it’s the shape of one’s sunglasses. Because after seasons of minimal shades, a frame that takes up more real estate on your face—i.e. eyebrow to lower cheekbone—is back.

On the streets of Paris Fashion Week, shield sunglasses weren’t just noticeable because of their size but rather because they were more frequently spotted than almost every other shape you can think of, gaining the edge on curvaceous oval frames popularised by Celine, as well as evergreen styles like Prada’s Symbole.

The shield, which gets its name from the unbroken lens that “shields” both eyes (or at least creates the illusion of doing so courtesy of an inconspicuous bridge), is also referred to as the “mask” or the “visor”, with a rare ability to be either retro-tinged or futuristically sporty.

Loewe’s SS26 collection included a shield that fit into the second category. In fact, its first look (of its inaugural season under new creative leadership) was a seamless leather jacket, streamlined aqua booties and shield sunglasses—straight across the top, curved at the bottom and contributing an undeniable layer of cool.

Their beauty lies in the fact that, despite almost looking like performance wear, you could style them with anything from tailoring to denim to swimwear. Other designers to have a shield in their eyewear line-up include Bottega Veneta, Gucci, Ferragamo and Phoebe Philo, whose near-perfect version of the shield continue to sell out every time they are restocked.

Several brands, meanwhile, haven’t gone sporty or vintage (Philo’s conker acetate was modern yet retro-inflected), but Y2K. The WAGs knew a thing or two about shield sunglasses. In 2004, Victoria Beckham wore tinted shield frames, a white trucker hat and a tank emblazoned with “England” (she was at the Euros, obviously). More than 20 years later, the designer is just as committed to shields away from the pitch, with her very own version—an oversized frame that’s angular yet soft at the edges; perfect for making a statement or, equally, flying under the radar.

As you might have already sussed, the shield is very celebrity-coded. Not only do they cover a significant portion of one’s face (add a baseball cap and you’re really in business to go incognito), but they take a certain level of confidence—A-list chutzpah, shall we say—to pull off (Tracee Ellis Ross lives in shields). For the slightly more faint-hearted, a gateway pair might be Chimi’s, Ferragamo’s or St Agni’s, all of which are elegantly minimal shields. The finishing touch to your finishing-touch accessory? A scraped-back hairstyle so your sunglasses take centre stage, no ifs, buts or flyaways.

Shop The Best Shield Sunglasses

Wedding season is here, and with it comes the age-old dilemma of what to gift the happy couple. With different personalities, interests, and budgets in mind, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by choice. Luckily, we have enlisted expert help from Liberty's managing director, Lydia King.

Having previously worked at Harrods and Selfridges, King is one of the industry’s most esteemed experts, with her finger firmly on the pulse of modern, timeless and highly covetable gifts—so you can be sure they will be well received. Here, as part of our Art of Gifting series, she shares her top tips for successful wedding gifting…

When I’m choosing a wedding gift, I always look for something the couple can enjoy together - something that feels considered and lasting, rather than purely functional. I’m drawn to pieces that carry a sense of craftsmanship or story, whether that’s beautifully made tableware, glassware or something for the home that becomes part of their everyday rituals. It’s about finding something that feels personal to them, but also marks the significance of the moment.

Thoughtfulness is always the priority. I try to choose something that shows I’ve really considered the couple — their style, how they live, what they’ll genuinely use and enjoy. The best gifts feel personal and enduring, something that becomes part of their home over time rather than something purely decorative.

WHAT TO BUY FOR… The Ones That Have Everything

Present them with the unexpected. Something different that you wouldn’t find anywhere else! Astier De Villatte’s treasure trove of ceramics on our third floor truly offers something special for everyone.

WHAT TO BUY FOR...The Aesthetes 

A charming Boncoeurs tray will add an artful accent to interiors, whether traditional or contemporary. Meticulously crafted from durable enamelled aluminium and delicately hand finished. Pile trinkets on this handy tray or arrange on your desk for the perfect eclectic accent to your workspace

WHAT TO BUY FOR…The Foodies

Trusted Our Place sets come in the trending titanium finish. Functional whilst gorgeous enough to show off on your stovetop.

WHAT TO BUY FOR…The Globe Trotters

Sourced from Morocco, recently launched LRNCE’s flair for colour brings their signature sunshine to your dining table. Presented in a set of two, they’re meticulously hand-made in Marrakech and showcase a hand-drawn artwork created by the brand’s founder, Laurence Leenaert.

Where To Shop For The Best Gifts IRL

Obviously Liberty's Flagship store in Soho! Spanning 4 floors of curated fashion and lifestyle gift options Liberty offers a broad selection of exceptional design, bridging heritage craftsmanship with modern, directional style.

Go-to Shops For Gifting?

I’m always drawn to independent brands, and at Liberty, we're lucky enough to stock a lot of them. I particularly love LRNCE, who we have just added to our interiors edit. They have beautifully handmade ceramics and textiles that bring a real sense of artistry and individuality into the home.

So, you're heading to Milan Design Week, or perhaps Salone del Mobile specifically—the headline event spanning furniture, furnishings, kitchens, bathrooms, and lighting from the leading homeware labels across the globe. A highlight in the interiors calendar, and a mammoth one to navigate, even when spread across five days.

For the 64th edition, expect over 1,900 exhibitors from 32 countries across 169,000 square metres of exhibition space. Your step count will be significant. Even if you do factor in pit stops at Bar Basso, which we're told is the unofficial hub for eating, drinking and mingling with fellow interiors devotees.

Before you can discuss colour palettes, textures and lighting levels, however, the first consideration is what to actually wear. Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable given the distance covered. And with a forecast of 11–18 degrees, a jacket, or at the very least a substantial layer that is removeable, is a very wise choice.

This being design week, you'll also want something that sits between classic and quietly adventurous: a bold pop of colour, a printed piece or an elevated play on texture will all serve you well. Full attention should be on the furnishings, however in a room full of creatives, its always the perfect opportunity to have fun with your wardrobe.

Below, three looks by way of inspiration.

What to Wear for Salone del Mobile 2026

Polished Bohemia

A patterned satin trouser, matching top and suede accents make for a look that's practical, design-led and far from overdone. It's also one that will take you from breakfast through to dinner without a second thought. Silver shoes will keep the look co-ordinated while bold accessories add a punch of personality. Plus, add a pair of sunglasses. It is Italy, after all.

Effortlessly Avant-Garde

Colour and prints feel right at home in the design-led halls of Salone del Mobile, and a striped dress is an easy-yet-striking choice. A denim jacket will stave off any chill, while a simple sandal means there's no need to change come dinner time. Sling a roomy bag over your shoulder for all the pamphlets you'll inevitably pick up along the way.

Dressed Down Decadence

There are very few places a great pair of jeans won't work, and Salone del Mobile luckily is not one of them. For a more laid-back look, opt for a dark-wash jean, floral jacket and attention-grabbing accessories. Plus a great pair of flats that will see you through every step.

New York City has finally thawed—and the reason we know for 100% certain isn't our weather app but Jennifer Lawrence. The actor has been spotted in back-to-back outfits that are primed for spring (no jacket necessary!).

Usually involving a baseball cap, a string of beads and something from The Row (or several things), J. Law's latest outfit combined all three signatures for a look that was organised chaos—in a good way.

It hinged on a clash between two shades: red and pink. Lawrence wore an oversized strawberry-hued button-down with candy floss-coloured trousers by Siedrés, the boldness of the former contrasting nicely with the softness of the latter, which also came threaded with sequins.

A more timid dresser might stop there, but not Lawrence, who sprinkled choice accessories on top—a navy baseball cap (this one was sewn with the logo of Citymeals on Wheels), a mother-of-pearl shell necklace by Tory Burch, and buttery loafers from The Row.

This outfit's genius lies in the fact that it's not overly polished or perfectly matched together. Instead it's got personality (Lawrence might have a stylist but she always manages to make it look authentic, whether that's with a well-loved band tee, a cap that's meaningful in some way or a "fun" shoe like a turquoise slip-on). Channel a similar energy in your out-of-office looks—experimenting with styling until you've found your groove—and don't forget the two-word mantra of the moment: organised chaos.

Shop Jennifer Lawrence's Off-Duty Outfit

H&M practically invented the designer collaboration, with a history of marrying high-fashion edge with high-street realness (read: more affordable price tags). And for its next, the retailer is revisiting a homegrown design talent who it first partnered with in 2005: the one, the only, Stella McCartney.

Stella McCartney H&M, dropping on 7 May, showcases this legacy, with a collection that combines established house codes and early archival hits—exactly what fans of the label will be wanting to hear. “I see this collection as a journey through my fashion history," says McCartney. "It is a true mix of current classics and some of my old favourites that showcase my first forays into fashion and the development of my signatures. It’s playful, strong, sparkling, joyful, refined.”

Past designer collections haven't just sold out in record time, but have created in-store stampedes (seriously). So what will the shoppers be shopping from Stella McCartney H&M?

As a tailoring connoisseur, the collection's grey pinstriped blazer—double-breasted and styled in the campaign with a crystallised mesh bodysuit—is the way to do boss-lady with bite this summer. A Stella McCartney H&M trench will always be a good investment; this one features a funnel neck, shoulder loops, a waist belt and storm flaps, a mix of the classic and the modern in one coat.

Perhaps you're in the mood for party dresses, especially after a parasocial experience of last weekend's Coachella. You'll find a draped LRD—that's little red dress—with a monochrome polka dot as opposed to something contrasting makes it a mini worth adding to your line-up. I'm also drawn to a long-sleeved, snake-print column dress, designed to be sculpting but comfortably so.

And then you've got the slogans, which are unmistakably Stella. From a studded tank spelling out "Rock Royalty", to a ribbed white bodysuit emblazoned with a cursive "Stella", they're sexy, shouty and perfect for this summer's festival circuit.

But what about its sustainability credentials? As a designer who is as much an environmental pioneer as a fashion insider, McCartney has always beat her own drum when it comes to not using animal materials but their mindful alternatives. So it won't come as a surprise that she's very much sticking to her guns with Stella McCartney H&M (the collection prioritises recycled content, organic cottons and wool certified to the RWS Standard, as well as the use of feedstock—which means a material that is used to produce something in an industrial process—for coated materials such as industrial corn and recycled vegetable oil).

As McCartney told The Guardian: “Fashion is one of the most harmful industries to the planet and I’m trying to bring that awareness to the high street." She added that, while she questioned whether or not it was appropriate to collaborate with a high-street brand, she decided that, “infiltrating from within and having conversations with people who are like ‘the devil’ in a sense and then trying to change them into a more conscious way of working”, was a more positive step towards change than simply not doing it.

Shop The Stella McCartney H&M Collection Below

So, you have the dress—or three, if you're following the current trend—and now you need the finishing touches to make it feel entirely your own. Welcome to the Marie Claire edit of the best bridal accessories, where we've rounded up the wedding gloves, bridal shoes, bags, scarves, brooches and more that are worthy of walking down the aisle with you.

Bridal accessories are, at their core, an opportunity to customise your wedding look. So the shoes, gloves and hat combination you put together is entirely unique to you, whether you opt for something new, something borrowed or something blue.

The questions to consider are plentiful. To veil or not to veil is the first; a pillbox hat, hair pins or a headband all make for excellent alternatives. Then there's the bag—do you carry your own, or entrust the essentials to someone else? And, of course, the shoes: a classic polished pump or something a little more spectacular. There's always the option to swap to trainers or flats come the evening, too, should the dancefloor beckon.

Bridal accessories also offer something rather clever: the ability to create the illusion of an outfit change without actually changing at all. A look styled with gloves and a veil will feel entirely different once both are removed. Some accessories offer more practical benefits, too. Sunglasses, for instance, will save you squinting in any outdoor shots if the sun is shining on your big day (here's hoping).

Scroll on for our bridal accessories edit. We've also put together a separate edit for bridal jewellery, in the hope of taking at least some of the stress out of wedding planning—or simply offering a little inspiration.

Shop Bridal Accessories

Sofia Richie wore three custom Chanel wedding dresses, Hailey Bieber opted for a trio by Virgil Abloh, Ralph & Russo and Vera Wang—the latter paired with trainers for a turn on the dancefloor—and Jennifer Lopez looked to Ralph Lauren for three custom white gowns. Proof, if it were needed, that three is far from a crowd when it comes to wedding dresses.

And the numbers back it up, too. According to wedding specialists The Knot, wedding dresses are the most common expense among soon-to-be-wed couples, with 91% spending on a new dress compared to 76% on a cake and just 59% on a florist. Choosing what to wear is no small undertaking.

Anna Vesty, founder and creative director of Unbridled Studio, has witnessed this shift from one standout gown to a carefully considered handful first-hand. "A large proportion of brides who come to us want the opportunity to have some form of look transformation throughout the day," she tells me. "Sometimes this means a dramatic transition: a grand silhouette with volume for the ceremony, a more pared-back column gown for dinner, and a mini for the evening."

Ally Voss, founder of Clover London, echoes this. Brides who opt for three dresses, she explains, often want their look to evolve across a long wedding day. The ceremony, reception and evening each offering a distinct moment while still following a cohesive theme.

"Brides want to show different sides of their personality throughout the day rather than committing to one look. It’s much more about building a “wedding wardrobe” and enjoying the process" adds Georgie Le Roux, founder of Gigi & Olive. "It also gives brides the freedom to experiment a bit more, whether that’s with vintage pieces, tailoring or statement accessories, without feeling like they’re compromising. It just makes the whole day feel more personal and fun.”

More looks, however, means more budget. And when a wedding dress is generally worn just once, the cost-per-wear argument that justifies a new designer handbag or pair of shoes goes firmly out of the window. So, alongside searching for the perfect gowns, it's worth thinking about how to approach the three-dress edit a little more consciously.

Three different looks doesn't have to mean three entirely different dresses. "Smaller, subtler changes still make an impact," explains Vesty, "like layering on a transformative silk top or removing a statement skirt to reveal a satin slip dress underneath." Jackets, veils and gloves can also go a long way to creating distinct looks around the same base.

If you are after three separate dresses, it's wise to opt for at least one you could wear again—whether that's a versatile midi like those from Rixo, or a style that would look equally chic in a different colour or shorter length. The Own Studio offers a dyeing and tailoring service to make this process even smoother. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you could always try the alterations yourself.

And finally, there's always the option of renting one (or all three) of your wedding dresses, or reselling the ones you're happy to part with after the day. Save yourself the attic space.

With all of that in mind, scroll on for inspiration on what to wear at every stage of your wedding day. Plus, more tips from our experts on what makes the best dress choice for each setting.

City Celebrations

"A chic column gown is always a winner for a city wedding," says Vesty, and Voss agrees. For registry offices or town hall weddings, she advises keeping things clean and contemporary, leaning into the unfussy nature of the location. Worth noting too: if you're planning street photography, a long train can be frustrating—and is unlikely to stay pristine.

For the ceremony, think sleek and understated. The Own Studio has a particularly strong column dress option that could, of course, be re-coloured down the line. For the reception, a vintage-inspired midi feels fresh, and a mini for the evening will see you through an evening on the dance floor.

City Ceremony

City Reception

City Evening

Countryside Nuptials

When looking at bridal trends that work particularly well for the countryside, lace is one that currently takes the top spot. "Often seen as dated or traditional, there are now many contemporary iterations of lace that feel clean, modern, but still deeply romantic," says Voss. Plus, a country house wedding is the perfect excuse to layer on the drama says Vesty. "Think something that gives a nod to the grandeur and history of a gorgeous Manor house but translated in a modern way," she adds.

Following their advice of creating multiple looks around the same base, both the ceremony and reception outfits have been built using separates.

Countryside Ceremony

Countryside Reception

Countryside Evening

Beach Festivities

"When thinking about your location, I know it might sound boring, but I always like to think practical. For warm climates or beach weddings, choose light, breathable fabric to stay cool and comfortable," says Voss. Vesty encourages you to look for silk organza fabrics, dresses that look just as good barefoot as they do with shoes and pieces with plenty of movement.

Beach Ceremony

Beach Reception

Beach Evening

Festival fashion is one of those terms divisive enough to split any group in two: the lovers and the loathers. The flower crowns may have been left firmly in 2016, but there's still a free-spirited energy to festival dressing that can conjure strong reactions from even the most broad-minded fashion fan.

For the lovers—those who lean into boho, sporty EDM style or are happy to embrace vibrant colours and bold prints—festivals are a great opportunity to push your aesthetic further than everyday dressing allows.

For the loathers, the typical festival fashion dress code is entirely optional. Jeans, a simple tee and ankle boots will always suffice, as will a minimalist mini, which I've built out into a full look below.

There are, however, a few golden rules worth keeping in mind across the board. First: leave your designer sunglasses at home. One flick of the head and they'll be off and under somebody's foot before you know it. Trust me, I speak from experience.

Second, footwear should be your first port of call; everything else can be built around it. Trainers offer the most comfort but often don't hold up in rain and mud—nobody wants soggy socks.

Wellies tackle this terrain excellently but can feel incredibly heavy over a long day, so deploy them only when necessary. Sandals, meanwhile, work brilliantly on scorching dry days when your festival of choice is a little more relaxed, say, the Soho House festival.

Below, your festival fashion moodboard for the season, sorted by style personality. Scroll on to see which cohort suits you best.

The 2026 Festival Dressing Guide, By Personality

The Music-Loving Minimalist

Minimalist fashion fans will likely recoil at the traditional festival fashion moodboard with floaty separates, bold colours and statement prints, but there is a way to approach festival dressing without all the noise. A clean-cut mini dress, sandals and a cropped trench coat is one look that won't steer you far wrong. You could also get a bit more creative with your eyeliner to lean more into the free-spirited look.

The Bold Bohemian

Boho and festival fashion go hand in hand. Denim shorts, leather boots and a floaty blouse form easy staples that can be accessorised as you wish. To truly lean into the boho feel, a wide leather belt and a fringe bag—large enough to hold a water bottle, jumper, blister plasters and phone charger—are two particularly strong additions.

The Eccentric EDM Lover

The key element to consider when putting together your festival look is comfort. You'll often be on your feet for over ten hours a day, and if you're in the UK, the weather can change in an instant. Tracksuit bottoms, trainers and a linen shirt thrown over the top are among the safest options on the comfort front, while an animal print bag acts as a focal point.

The Country Music Mega Fan

The country music lover has a laid-back, countryside-cool energy that is somehow still polished. Cowboy boots are an obvious foundation—just be sure to break them in before you hit the festival field—along with a statement pair of sunglasses, a hat to keep off the sun and a boiler suit that's warm enough to go jacket-free.

The Practical Pop Lover

Remember Kate Moss's iconic Glastonbury gold mini dress? It remains particularly strong festival inspiration, Hunter wellies and all. Note the wipe-down crossbody bag and rain mac too, a practical festival-goer's best allies.

With The Devil Wears Prada 2 in full promo mode, one shade of blue is once again getting airtime—cerulean. (Meryl Streep even did a spot of “method dressing” for The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, not as her on-screen alter ego but as Andy Sachs, appearing in the infamous “lumpy blue sweater” that was so lambasted in the first movie.) As much as we’re going to bask in her return—the high priestess of ice—we have to admit to being more excited about another blue entirely, not cerulean but cobalt.

The two obviously share characteristics, both sitting in the mid-blue spectrum, but cobalt has the edge over its cousin this spring, with slightly darker tones giving it the depth of lapis. The gradation cropped up repeatedly on the catwalks, at times a consistent theme (Akris’ collection featured six cobalt looks, most head-to-toe save for a contrast shoe), while at others it was a graphic touchstone that served as more of an accent (Celine, where a rugby shirt was half cobalt, half tomato).

It didn’t make a splash on the streets, but, instead, quietly made its presence felt. Outside Jil Sander, cobalt was spotted yet used sparingly. Instagram's Eva Chen styled the label’s cobalt sweater, not a cable-knit but a plain crew-neck, over a popping red polo neck Another ticket-holder simply paired a cobalt button-down shirt with an elongated pencil skirt and ecru sneakers, an easy uniform for unexpectedly warm spring days like we’ve been experiencing.

Influencers, meanwhile, have long been supporting the shade on their feeds. Annabel Rosendahl’s trick is to shoulder robe a cobalt sweater, leaving its sleeves loose for ease. With fluctuating temperatures, when you never quite know whether you’ll need extra coverage, it’s the most practical way to incorporate some cobalt. Another route is a fabulous bag. Celine’s Micro Crystal Pouch, in so-called “Ultra Blue”, is the pick on both social media (@phoebephilofan is, well, a fan), as well as the brand’s show in Paris, where street stylers played snap with their bags.

Cobalt likes to be mixed with its fellow primary colours, as evidenced by Celine, where all three joined forces on a particular silk scarf, and the work of Alexander Calder. But if a trio feels too literal, just two will suffice; a cobalt button-down with chilli-pepper ballet flats, say, or a cobalt tee with tomato linen trousers.