Any fashion expert knows it can be difficult to dress for the ever-changing weather of the great British summer. Heatwaves and showers might come and go, but one thing that remains consistent is high-street favourite Marks and Spencer, whose offering of trend-led pieces, seasonal must-haves and quality basics has been supporting our wardrobes for years.
Knowing we can always find a flattering dress or comfortable sandal from its comprehensive holiday edit, we naturally thought of Marks and Spencer first when addressing our summer outfit dilemmas. With weddings, festivals, birthdays and holidays firmly back on the agenda, we've been contending with a jam-packed social schedule, and if you've been wondering what you should wear this weekend, we've got the answer.
We've scrolled through M&S's new-in section and put together four easy outfits from the edit that deserve your attention whether you're packing for a holiday or simply refreshing your seasonal wardrobe. All you have to do is decide what event is next in your social calendar.
1. What to Wear to a Festival
We love a great British summer, but let's face it: A season of sun isn't always guaranteed. If you're packing up and heading for the great outdoors this festival season, our advice is sensible layering. Enjoy the best of free-spirited fashion with carefree prints and boho details. Just be sure to pack a waterproof.
Be covered rain or shine with a lightweight parka. This one has concealed zip pockets inside and out so you've got even more places to keep your essentials.
We love this cheerful floral print. Just wear over a white T-shirt with plenty of stacked jewellery.
Kate Moss changed the face of festival fashion forever in those tiny shorts at Glastonbury 2007, but we've got Alexa Chung's more wearable denim shorts in mind for our festival inspo.
The most widely recognised and sensible footwear choice for trekking through muddy fields.
2. What to Wear to the Park, the Pub or the Picnic
It sure is good to feel the sun again, so it's more than likely your plans this summer are al fresco. Whether you're walking through the park or sitting in a beer garden, your wardrobe needs a hot-weather accommodating dress and a comfy sandal. Consider this your new weekend uniform.
A good shacket will work all year round. Layer it up with knits in winter or drape it across your shoulders as the sun sets. (This one even has a clever, adjustable belted waist.)
Stay cool in the perfect heatwave-proof dress at home or abroad.
M&S has a track record of some of the comfiest shoes on the market, and these sandals with moulded, padded soles are no exception.
We love a classic cat-eye frame, but 2022 is the year of '90s-inspired rectangular sunglasses.
3. What to Wear to a Garden Party
Birthdays, weddings and christenings all deserve to be celebrated in the sun, so if you're yet to RSVP to that big event because you haven't figured out what to wear, say yes to a printed dress with a platform heel.
Florals for spring might not be groundbreaking, but graphic prints for summer are a guaranteed winner.
If you missed the revival of clogs, catch up with these on-trend sandals. The ankle strap will make them easier to wear than a classic slip-on.
Gilded accessories are a finishing touch for event dressing.
With the '90s trend dominating the last year, mini bags are replacing the XXL tote.
4. What to Wear on Holiday
It's booked, you're packed, and after checking the forecast, it's looking good for day one on the beach. What's the easiest outfit to reach for? A pair of shorts over your swimwear and some pool-ready sliders. Keep an oversized shirt in your woven beach bag for exploring the city, and relax in an outfit that will take you from the beach to the bar.
Animal print + brights = swimwear to be seen in.
Don't worry—soft denim with a loose fit around the legs will keep you cool without clinging.
These are not only made from responsibly sourced leather, but they have a layer of antibacterial padding to keep them fresh.
One of our favourite woven bags of the summer is now available in royal blue, black and cream, so expect to see this affordable macramé bag everywhere.
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