I know, don’t hate me for saying it but, we’re already over halfway through the year. It feels like summer only just started before we’re talking about it ending, but as someone who is known for planning well in advance, I tend to shop one season ahead.
This time though, the scorching heat and blue skies have meant that I’ve spent most of my summer outdoors, and keen to soak up the most of the weather, I’m stubbornly staying in summer mode. Flip flops? Everyday. Skirts and dresses? Just try and stop me. Don’t mention jeans, jumpers or jackets to me for the next two months, I’m sunbathing for as long as I can.
Given then just how much time I’m dedicating to alfresco fun, my wardrobe is in need of some extra love to celebrate the most of the sunny season. I’ve got good basics down to a (perfectly cut) tee, and now I’m looking for exciting, new luxury buys to spice things up for work, weekends and everything in-between.
Wondering how a seasoned fashion editor shops designer pieces for summer? I’ve pulled together a handy edit of premium pieces that are worth the investment for this summer, and the next, and the next… Scroll to see what made the cut.
The Best Luxury Fashion Items to Shop for Summer 2026
Saint Laurent
A-line Dress in Embroidered Cotton Poplin
Pretty white dresses that pair perfectly with flip flops are having a moment right now.
Saint Laurent
Pajama Shorts in Square Silk Satin
Ideal for pulling on with an oversized shirt and some casual flats.
Dear Frances
Capri Thong, Caramel Suede
I own three pairs of Dear Frances shoes, and believe me when I say, the suede is so buttery soft that they make for comfortable wear.
Bottega Veneta
Women’s Parachute in Basil
You might not see a leather bag and think “summer”, but this vibrant shade of green is perfect for the season.
MIGUELINA
Palmer Cropped Guipure Lace-Trimmed Cotton-Blend Top
Just add blue jeans and sandals on a cooler day.
If you too have fallen for Dôen’s beautiful, breezy dresses you’ll love their shorts too.
Prada
Patent Leather Sandals
Understated, sleek and elegant.
ZIMMERMANN
Raffia Bucket Hat
I said it here first—this will be the year that I invest in a raffia hat
Whenever I’m not sure what to wear, I reach for a Realisation dress to feel my very best. The flattering cuts are unmatched.
CITIZENS OF HUMANITY
The Taper Jean Mid-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans
Just because it’s summer it doesn’t mean you can’t wear jeans, and I have my eye on these for the chiller days.
Otiumberg
Pavé Roscida Drop Hoops
The easiest way to dress up a sundress and ballet flats.
Citizens of Humanity
Ramie Mia Embroidered Blouse
Light, breathable, and exactly what to reach for on a scorching hot day.
MARRAKSHI LIFE
The Palazzo Striped Cotton-Blend Straight-Leg Pants
White linen is a classic, but these striped cotton trousers have even more impact.
Christopher Esber
Jo Flip Flops
I’m a sucker for a pair of minimalist flip flops, and this shade of red is the pop of colour a simple ensemble needs.
Reformation
Beauden Dress
If you’re looking for an instant outfit you can throw on at a moment’s notice and still look polished, you just found it.
Bottega Veneta
Reace Cat-Eye Sunglasses in Brown
You can never have too many pairs of sunglasses.
Christopher Esber
Silk Bandana Tie Top
Everything from the bandana-style knots to the choker detail make this so much more than your average “nice top”.
Rixo
Padma Lace Top in Cream
I haven’t stopped thinking about this since I first saw it. What a way to dress up denim!
Miu Miu
Gingham Miniskirt in White
Just imagine this with a baby tee and gorpcore sandals…
Ancient Greek Sandals
Irini recycled-PVC slingback sandals
Love the thought of jellies but find the look too “childish”? You haven’t seen Ancient Greek’s take on the trend yet.
Missoma
Beaded Gemstone & Pearl Short Necklace
Your white tops have been waiting for a necklace like this.
Heading to France this summer? Rouje has you covered with the ultimate riviera wardrobe.
