The 15 best summer fashion tips from a London style expert

It is a good idea to use a different language. travel to London frequently—sometimes for work trips packed with press events and tours, and sometimes for leisure, like my most recent family visit last month. No matter why I visit, I am always inspired by the style of the city. London fashion manages to be polished yet playful, weather-savvy but not obviously practical—and I always find myself wondering how to channel more of that effortless elegance in my own travel wardrobe.

I called on the help of Becky Fishlock who is head of personal shopping for Bicester VillageI love to visit this designer outlet outside London whenever I am in the UK. She gave us her tips on how to look stylish and put together when visiting London during summer. The high-low mix is a great way to look stylish and put together. heritage tailoring Modern pieces of art chic accessories You can navigate the city comfortably and stylishly while staying prepared for the unpredictable weather. Here’s how to capture that signature London look—with space to make it your own by adding the key pieces that fit your style.

A polished blazer

Fishlock says, “London Summer Style is all about the mix of high and low: Heritage tailoring mixed with a modern irreverence.” To see what this combination looks like in real life, take a look at a Paul Smith blazer A silk slip dress or a Barbour waxed cotton jacket Designer sandals are a great way to add a touch of elegance. This look is all about balancing traditional polish and a touch of unexpected ease. This affordable tweed blazerWith its double-breasted button and padded shoulder, this is a great foundation to create a high/low look.

Layering cami

London mornings may feel like autumn while the warm afternoons will bring you a hint spring. This is why it’s important to build your wardrobe using removable layers. Fishlock recommends having “a silk under a linen shirt, or a cotton with a trench on hand” at all times. If you want to be prepared, a lightweight trench or cropped coat will do the trick. And if you are ready to take off your outerwear, a camisole is able stand on its own. This lightweight camiIt is a great base layer for $17. It is affordable, available in multi-packs and 40 colors, and made of a stretchy fabric that feels silky.

Walking in stylish shoes

Fishlock’s footwear mantra: “Shoes must be beautiful and walkable—and never, ever let practicality look obvious.” From Chelsea to Shoreditch you will want footwear that is comfortable and stylish for a dinner date, but can also handle long walks. Loafers, minimal trainers, or flats with sturdy bottoms are all great options. These shoes are a great alternative to traditional flats. They’re stylish, comfortable and durable. Birdies loafer flats These are the most stylish and walkable of all. Meghan Markle even wore a pair She took her family to Disneyland this summer and they proved that style and comfort are equally important.

A bag large enough for an umbrella

A sling bag or fanny pack can provide all the storage you need while visiting a sunny destination—but London is notoriously wet in the summer, so you’ll want a bag that can hold your rain gear. “Carry a small umbrella that fits into a Loewe Puzzle bagFishlock advises you to always have a raincoat on hand, in case of a sudden downpour. This beautiful Quince crossbody bag It is a bag that looks like a puzzle, but can actually hold a compact mini umbrella With some space to spare 

Tailored linen

Fishlock reports that she has been seeing linen tailoring with neutral shades everywhere in this season. The breathable fabric keeps you cool, while still maintaining structure. For maximum versatility, choose shades such as cream, camel or soft gray. The best way to make your wardrobe versatile is by sticking with shades like cream, camel or soft grey. oversized linen blazer It comes in four neutral colors and is stretchy for comfort. This makes it perfect for any season.

An elevated day dress

Fishlock recommends investing in “nipped waist tea dresses” in a classic or refined tone. This flattering dress can easily be worn from day to evening and is perfect for layering under a jacket in cooler temperatures. This easy-to wear, soft top is perfect for any occasion. A-line dress The midi-length dress has buttons on the front and a waistband that cinches it. It is perfect for both tall and petite travelers.

Wide-leg trousers

Fishlock claims that wide-leg slouchy trousers are also a booming trend in London. The trousers offer ease of movement and comfort, but they still appear refined when paired up with a silk shirt or tailored jacket. For a longer, slimmer silhouette, choose high-waisted styles. I have this version from Everlane, and it couldn’t be more comfortable or easy to wear—and the look is So, if you want to know more about how to get started with your own business, please contact us. Easy to polish

Sneakers that are supportive

Fishlock warns against sandals in suitcases. You can only get it by clicking here Pack sandals as if you were going to Provence. She warns that “London’s rainy, gloomy climate will punish” you if only you pack open-toed footwear. Instead, opt for shoes “built for pavements, not beaches”—think minimal trainers, chic loafers, or ankle-strap flats that can take you from the train to a rooftop bar. This sleek Veja sneaker This shoe is perfect for exploring the city. It has soles made of wild Amazonian Rubber and a lining made out of recycled polyester and organic Cotton.

Multipurpose scarf

The smallest details can elevate an entire outfit. Fishlock says that a “structured crossbody bag, tortoiseshell glasses, and silk neck scarf” will instantly elevate your outfit. Each piece is versatile for both evening and daytime events and can easily be packed into a carry-on bag. This soft and stunning scarfFor $40, you can wear it around your neck as a hairband, bag charm or sarong.

Day-to-night bag swaps

In London, handbags are as functional as they are fashionable—and you’ll want to stock up on options for every occasion. Fishlock recommends packing a “crossbody” for daytime and a small structured tote “for evening.” For maximum wearability, choose neutrals or a single stand-out color to bring a simple outfit to life. It’s a good idea to stick with neutrals for maximum wear, or choose one standout color to make an otherwise understated outfit pop. handwoven crossbody This bag is made from 100% Italian leather. It has a removable and adjustable crossbody strap and a zip top closure that keeps your essentials secure. 

Cashmere Wrap

One of Fishlock’s favorite multi-use pieces is “a fine cashmere wrap—it works as a plane blanket, a summer evening cover-up, and even as an impromptu picnic throw in Hyde Park.” This is a piece you will reach for season after season. This soft and popular item is a perennial favorite. budget-friendly cashmere wrap scarf The eyelash fringe is a great way to create a stylish, day-to-night style.

Luxurious textures

You can build your European travel wardrobe, “stick to a refined palette—think navy, ivory, camel, olive—and let [the] Fishlock says, “textures do the work.” Silk, linen, or fine cotton are luxurious fabrics that can elevate even the most simple outfit. This Cuyana silk slip dress The A-line style is available in neutral mushroom or black.

A polished leather Belt

How to make an outfit look more stylish? You can “add an oversize blazer and polished leather belt to any outfit” David Clulow sunglasses Fishlock says that even a basic jeans-and t-shirt look can be improved. This accessory formula instantly gives you the London look without having to buy a whole new wardrobe. This dressed-up Madewell belt—a lower-priced alternative for much spendier styles—can pull any look together. 

A structured trench coat

Investments trench coat London style is built on the foundation of a lightweight, structured jacket. Fishlock recommends a jacket that is “lightweight yet structured” and resistant to water, so it can be worn even in unexpected showers or sunshine. This shirt is water-resistant and lightweight, so it can be worn in both surprise showers and sunshine. stretch crepe version from QuinceThe $100 t-shirt is wrinkle-resistant, and so chic. Bonus: It’s just as stylish over trousers as it is over dresses. 

The transitional loafer

Finally, Fishlock warns against the all-too-common tourist uniform of “strappy sandals, tiny dresses, no jacket”—a fashion mistake she sees visitors make every summer. Choose an outfit to suit the climate of your destination. “London mornings and afternoons can feel like Autumn or spring,” she says. “Leave the flip-flops She advises. Choose a shoe that is more versatile and warmer, such as this polished pair. easy-to-wear loafer from Amazon.

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