Although the weather at this time of the year might not be the most reliable, you can always depend on Brits to dress the part and bring the summer aesthetic with them in spite of the daily forecast.
Earlier this month, photographer Michaela Efford and I took to the streets of East London in search of the best outfits we could find. And despite the Met Office app’s forewarning for grey skies, we still managed to track down several looks that absolutely epitomised summer and can help us all segue into the warm days we’re wishing for. From floral-printed shorts suits to breezy linen trousers and voluminous minidresses, Londoners are definitely not letting a few clouds get in the way of perfecting their summer style.
While practicality is, of course, a factor—note the several women wearing white T-shirts beneath their strappy summer dresses—many people managed to channel the new-season aesthetic with the help of accessories. From raffia tote bags to statement sunglasses and trending sandal styles, each look we loved had a nod to (hopefully) sunnier days ahead.
Without further ado, keep scrolling to see the best looks we spotted on the streets of London this month.
Style Notes: Model Anh Phoenix epitomised summer style with this vibrant look, pairing a printed blazer and shorts from King & Tuckfield with a vintage Prada bag and so much chic jewellery.
Style Notes: Amy Unwin wears another look that practically personifies summer: a floral dress from her label, Luxe Style Online. She’s paired the dress alongside wedges and a canvas bag by Mango.
Style Notes: To me, this look is the height of understated elegance. Jenny’s outfit consists of a dress by Matteau, shoes by Ancient Greek Sandals and a bag by The Row. Talk about a minimalist’s dream combination!
Style Notes: The pièce de résistance of this look is undoubtedly the vintage Christian Dior sunglasses, but I have to say this lovely SIR the Label linen jumpsuit is a close second.
Style Notes: This laid-back look is just perfect for your morning coffee run. Here, Rio Jade wears a vintage shirt alongside bike shorts and Converse’s ever-popular Chuck Taylors.
Style Notes: We spotted Hana on her birthday after she’d just treated herself to a new bag by Lalo. She paired the new purchase with trousers from M&S, sunglasses by ASOS and a Weekday vest top.
Style Notes: Sonya’s Arizona Love sandals immediately caught my attention—instant proof she was a fashion devotee. I love the way she paired the statement shoes with a relatively minimalist look featuring a linen blazer and tie-front shorts.
Style Notes: A midi dress plus sneakers and a crossbody bag is the fail-safe summer outfit I wear on repeat. Aleesha looks so fabulous in this trusty formula.
Style Notes: This sweet summer outfit might seem relatively simple featuring a white minidress and high-top sneakers. But take a closer look at Sammi’s dress, and you’ll notice an intricate lace trim on the hem that really works to elevate the outfit.
Style Notes: I spotted this outfit from a mile away and was determined to get a photo. The printed co-ord just felt so fun, and it was refreshing to see someone wearing such a statement look while on their local park walk.
Style Notes: There’s something so timeless and versatile about this outfit formula on Darlene. The midi skirt and plain tee are proving that there is such style in simplicity.
Style Notes: I think just about everyone in the UK can relate to this look. It captures a moment where you’re just desperate to wear your favourite summer dress, but the weather is not quite warm enough. Thankfully, the classic white tee was there to save the day.
Style Notes: Would it really be a London street style shoot if we didn’t spot someone in a trench coat? Here, Amy pairs the trench alongside a chic raffia bag that she found in a market in Mexico.
Style Notes: Another example of a white tee helping a summer dress feel a little more wearable. Here, Nadia wears a black slip dress alongside a belt and Dr. Martens boots.
Style Notes: This linen-blend jumpsuit looked like the perfect holiday piece you could still wear in the city and like a true summer outfit spotted along Broadway Market. Connie paired the item with a tan belt and a crossbody bag by Mulberry.
Style Notes: Jumpsuits are the ultimate all-in-one outfit, and it’s even better when you find one that requires very little styling. Here, Jessica has paired her statement jumpsuit alongside sneakers for a relaxed, laid-back look that still feels put-together.
Next up, the biggest autumn 2021 trends you need to know.
