There's a lot of things to like about bank holidays, not least the fact that you can spend the worst day of the week in bed watching Netflix, or outside doing something fun if that's more your thing. The May bank holiday might just be my favourite of them all, though. Summer is in the air, and that means it's time to do a wardrobe refresh. Luckily, it also happens to be one that a lot of fashion brands like to celebrate with some seriously good flash sales.
Now, we're not talking the end of season dregs, here. Bank holiday discounts usually mean offers on new-in items you've only just put on your wish list. And since this weekend comes at a time when I want to invest in both transitional and warm weather styles I know I'll be wanting to wear in the coming months.
Scrolling through endless pages of sales searching for the best deals can be more than a little boring, though, especially when you've got plenty of other plans you'd rather be enjoying. But that's where I come in. Before team Who What Wear *slam our laptops shut* for the long weekend, I've done you all a favour by researching and scouring all of the bank holiday fashion I could find, in order to report back on the very best ones you actually need to know about. Yes, you can thank me later.
From linen trousers to occasion dresses, there are plenty of versatile buys here that you'll rely on all season and beyond. And that's truly the sign of a great sale buy. I've even tracked down great deals on iconic pieces, from that Whistles' leather jacket to a Jacquemus bag courtesy of Harrods that I've had my eye on for months. Both & Other Stories and Anthropologie are celebrating dresses this weekend, with discounts on polished and playful dresses alike.
Okay, enough time wasted. Keep scrolling to see and shop the seven best bank holiday sales that were too good for me to gatekeep, along with the key buys I'd recommend investing in this year...
The Best Bank Holiday Sales
- Reformation Up to 40% Off
- Whistles 15% Off
- Nobody's Child 15% Off
- Anthropologie Extra 20% Off Sale
- Luisa Via Roma Extra 20% Off Sale
- Rixo Up to 50% Off Warehouse Sale
SHOP THE H&M BANK HOLIDAY SALE
Members can get 15% off all items over the bank holiday, and it's free to sign up! You can collect loyalty points, enjoy exclusive discounts, and right now make sweet savings on summer staples.
You'll rely on this classic black dress this summer and the next.
I'm such a fan of H&M's tailored trousers.
These are quickly becoming a best-selling pair.
Shorts season is upon us, and longer-length styles continue to be the polished silhouette stylish people are turning to.
Every great wardrobe deserves a classic basket bag.
SHOP THE & OTHER STORIES BANK HOLIDAY SALE
In celebration of the long weekend, & Other Stories is offering 20% off dresses in celebration of summer's arrival. Check out everyday dresses that will be worn on repeat as well as dressier styles for any upcoming events. Discount is applied at checkout.
Primed for the warmest summer days.
Throw over swimwear or add a slip to make the most of this intricately crafted dress.
Just add sandals and a bag.
Polka dots continue to be a key print for the season.
This would make for an excellent wedding guest dress.
SHOP THE HARVEY NICHOLS BANK HOLIDAY SALE
Bringing together a mix of contemporary and well-known designer brands, Harvey Nichols' bank holiday sale is definitely one you'll want to explore. The private sale of up to 40% off can be accessed by creating a member's reward account (completely free).
The smocking is so beautiful.
ATP Atelier's sandals come highly rated by stylish friends.
From weddings to evenings out, you'll always be best dressed in this.
A summery bag that's equal parts spacious and stylish.
Sunglasses have fast become a key part of my daily looks.
SHOP THE WHISTLES BANK HOLIDAY SALE
Whistles is offering 20% off, including some of their most iconic pieces like the Clean Bonded Leather Jacket and that waistcoat. There's plenty of treasures our editors rely on through all seasons, along with many more forever styles.
It may be summer, but I'm still wearing my beloved leather jacket on those cooler days. Make the most of the discount now.
Pretty, comfortable, and sure to turn heads.
The prettiest skirt I've seen all season.
Waistcoats have become a modern wardrobe staple.
White linen trousers are a key cornerstone of my summer wardrobe.
SHOP THE ANTHROPOLOGIE BANK HOLIDAY SALE
Summer is calling and Anthropologie has answered with discounts across a select edit of exquisite dresses. Get your holiday packing and everyday dressing sorted with the following sale buys.
Also available in petite and plus sizes.
This sweet dress went straight in my basket.
This is the first thing I'll be packing for my summer holidays.
It's officially a gingham summer, and this dress looks the part.
The ruching is such a nice touch!
SHOP THE HARRODS BANK HOLIDAY SALE
Harrods has a seriously good roster of contemporary brands and iconic designers, so when a sale arrives, I definitely pay attention. Right now, explore a selection of seriously chic accessories with up to 30% off.
Simone Rocha takes the staple white shirt to all new heights with a bold collar, pearl embellishments and draped sleeves.
Le Monde Beryl's ballet flats are a fashion insider favourite, so I expect this pair won't stick around for long.
The mix of print and fringing in a deep navy shade sets this dress apart from the rest.
I've had my eye on this bold bag for years, now is my chance.
Pretty blouses are taking over this summer, and this is one you can wear with everything from tailored trousers to floaty skirts.
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