Summer Starts Here: Sunshine-Ready Outfit Ideas

Summer's here, heralding a new optimistic mood, gatherings with friends and family and lazy days in the sun. What's not to love?

A throw-on-and-go summer dress is perfect for sunny weekends and holidays. Look for relaxed, versatile designs with just the right amount of ‘look-at-me' detailing to elevate above the everyday, think subtle beading and embellishment. Pair with gladiator-style sandals for relaxed holiday sundowners or al fresco meals under the stars. Seeking a little more polish? Dial up for special occasions with kitten heels, armfuls of oversized bangles and a sleek leather tote.

When the sun (finally) appears be sure you're sartorially ready to make the most of any socialising opportunities on the horizon. Our advice? Reach for a fail-safe short-sleeved shirt for a summer-ready outfit with minimum effort. A shirt and shorts combination makes for the perfect laidback daytime look and can be dressed up for evening with smarter accessories – you'll discover it's the ultimate wardrobe chameleon.

Choose one with considered design details to make the everyday feel a little bit special: this graphic print shirt features a retro-inspired revere collar. Worn open over a T-shirt with jeans or chinos, it'll strike the right note whether you're headed to a beer garden or somewhere smarter for sundowners.

Shorts and a T-shirt is the perfect kids' outfit for easy summer style and one of the season's most practical options for parties with bouncy castles or outdoor activities. Or choose candy-coloured brights such as hot pink and coral for the perfect wear-everywhere summer dress,

Just add sandals, sunglasses and lashings of sun cream and you've got go-to outfits that'll work for everything you have planned over the summer, from holidays abroad to family-friendly festivals.