We’re very much in summer now, and with it comes all the little things I look forward to every year: long evenings, sea swims, linen everything and spending as much time outdoors as possible. I always find this time of year incredibly inspiring, both personally and creatively, so I thought I'd share a few of the things I've been loving lately, from the colours finding their way into my wardrobe to the places, people and pieces currently inspiring me.
Few things make me happier than a really good tomato and having spent a lot of my summers in France as a child, I’ve never found one in the UK that compares. Until a recent trip to the Isle of Wight, I discovered Isle of Wight tomatoes are DELICIOUS. I’m now converted and buy the organic ones from their site and they are just as delicious and sweet as the ones I grew up devouring in France.
GO-TO COLOUR
I’m always drawn to pinks and reds, hence these colours always being very prevalent in our collection, but blues have also been making more of an appearance lately, with the occasional teal colour finding its way into my wardrobe more and more. I’m really specific about what kind of blue that is, as it has to have a warm undertone.
Image source: Milne Watson
Big chunky colourful beads are going to be really popular this summer and if you're looking for a gorgeous premium version of that, you should check out Milne Watson handcrafted by Emma using these beautiful colourful beads to create these one-of-a-kind necklaces. It’s definitely an investment piece and feels like a splurge, but feels extra special.
Comfort is always non-negotiable for me when it comes to my ideal summer uniform, but I also become more confident with wearing more colour as the weather warms up, so I’ll definitely be incorporating more colourful linen pieces into my wardrobe. Having said that, I still think black has its place in the summer wardrobe, and it looks really beautiful against sun-kissed skin and very chic with bright colourful accessories. I think the Reeta is the perfect little black dress for that.
SUMMER PLANS
I’m looking forward to being outside as much as I can this summer. Whether it’s a morning coffee in the garden or eating outside, I just love being outdoors. There’s something particularly lovely about summer evenings, when it’s still warm out after a day of sunshine and the kids are running around in the garden with the table full of delicious things that are in season and the birds are singing. It’s just the best thing ever.
Since moving to Bristol, I’ve spent a lot more time in Cornwall and have fallen particularly in love with the North and South coast. I've become fascinated by the incredible artist movement that took place in St Ives and Porthmeor, with the likes of Barbara Hepworth and Breon O’Casey and I have loved taking inspiration from everything Cornish in our High Summer collection. From the sunlight that cascades across all of the coastal towns to the wildflowers that flourish in every crevice, beauty can be found in every corner.
I love the Layne trousers in bone. I love ecru trousers, especially since my children aren’t toddlers anymore. I think they work all through summer and winter and I love the statement shape of the Layne, leaning into that trend we’re seeing in wide-leg bottoms while still feeling timeless. I’d pair it with a top like Esme so that you keep all the drama in the trousers.
READING
After putting American Dirt down because I found it too stressful (anyone else?) I was given I Who Have Never Known Men (by my friend Lisa) by Jacqueline Harpman, which although written over 30 years ago, is having somewhat of a resurgence. I don’t know what I made of it, it was strange and sad, but it kept me gripped until the end. Let me know if you’ve read it and what you thought of it?! I am now fully committed to The Covenant of Water…
I have my eye on the sundown check sets we’re launching at the end of this month. It reminds me of the clothes my mum wore in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, giving it a wonderful nostalgic feeling. It brings to mind the beloved Shirley Hughes books I grew up reading, full of warmth, colour and the simple joys of a childhood summer.
PERFECT SUMMER'S DAY
Summer always reminds me to slow down a little and appreciate the simple things, a morning coffee outside, a beautiful tomato, a walk by the sea or a favourite piece of clothing that makes getting dressed feel easy. I'd love to know what's inspiring you this season too, whether it's a book recommendation, a place you've discovered or a piece you're wearing on repeat. Here's to making the most of the sunshine while it's here.
