Congratulations, you’ve made it through the heatwave. There was a time when it felt like the scarily high temperatures were going to stick around forever but thankfully the forecast is looking a little more bearable as we head into August. This means we can step away from the ‘anything that doesn’t touch my body‘ dress code and into more sartorial styles for the remainder of the summer.

If you’re heading away on holiday this August, there are plenty of trends to take note of including chic and structured waistcoats, brightly coloured jewels and, of course, Barbiecore. If you’re spending your time off lying horizontal on the beach, then cute co-ords and glittering swimsuits are the only companions you need for a week of rest and relaxation. 

And if you’re staying at home this summer, Team R29 has plenty of suggestions for you, too, from wedding guest-appropriate dresses to chunky, city-ready sandals. 

To take a look at every fashion ‘fit we have an eye on this August, click through the slideshow ahead…

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

NEW INTRO

Congratulations, you’ve made it through the heatwave. There was a time when it felt like the scarily high temperatures were going to stick around forever but thankfully the forecast is looking a little more bearable as we head into August. This means we can step away from the ‘anything that doesn’t touch my body‘ dress code and into more sartorial styles for the remainder of the summer.

If you’re heading away on holiday this August, there are plenty of trends to take note of including chic and structured waistcoats, brightly coloured jewels and, of course, Barbiecore. If you’re spending your time off lying horizontal on the beach, then cute co-ords and glittering swimsuits are the only companions you need for a week of rest and relaxation. 

And if you’re staying at home this summer, Team R29 has plenty of suggestions for you, too, from wedding guest-appropriate dresses to chunky, city-ready sandals. 

To take a look at every fashion ‘fit we have an eye on this August, click through the slideshow ahead…

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Ebony-Renee Baker, Fashion Editor
I’m going to Portugal this month and it’s my first beach holiday in years, so I’m going to be really extra with the seaside and poolside ‘fits. I’m picturing this dress on a sailboat, while watching the sunset. Very 00s music video vibes, in the best way. What do you think?

SLA The Label Positano Cover Up, $, available at SLA

There’s something so chic about a midi denim skirt and I think it can be really easily styled throughout August and into the cooler months. Pair with trainers, a graphic tee and jumbo tote bag for your casual plans, then a crop top, heeled sandals and a clutch bag for drinks or date night. This skirt is also part of a co-ord with an oversized denim shirt, so that’s another great styling piece too. 

Aligne Greta Midi Denim Skirt, $, available at Aligne

When I first saw these trousers at Otti’s press preview, I was taken aback by how different the colour looks in various lights. From an iridescent blue, to a gorgeous purple, to a bright teal, these expertly-crafted drawcord trousers are destined to be a key player in anyone’s wardrobe. Another thing I love about them is that they can be dressed up and dressed down so easily  – not to mention they’re water repellant, too.

Otti Crinkle Track Pant, $, available at Otti

Alicia Lansom, Editorial Assistant
People have hailed the brilliance of blue shoes for decades but this summer I’m all about pretty blue bralettes.

BlueBella Irena Bra Surf The Web Blue, $, available at Bluebella

Now I’ve dyed my hair bright pink, I’m trying to make my wardrobe just as vibrant. This tie-dye tee from Être Cécile fits the criteria and is perfect for chilled Sundays in the sun.

Être Cécile Greek Goddess Classic T-Shirt, $, available at Être Cécile

Not gonna lie, seeing people walk around in flat sandals in the city makes me shudder. If you’re going to have your feet on British pavements, you need some stompers like these – that way you can just glide right over the half-eaten Greggs sausage rolls. Trust me.

Dr Martens Ricki Nappa Lux Leather 3 Strap Platform Sandals, $, available at DR MARTENS

Kristine Romano, Associate Editor, Photo & Design
I recently got my first (and likely not my last) Good Squish scrunchie and I love it so much that I think it’s on track to becoming my most worn item. It just feels like summer whenever I wear it!

Good Squish Blumberg White, $, available at Good Squish

I’ve always been more of a shorts than a skirt kind of gal but with this skort I can be both! You can’t go wrong with a black mini skirt and the built-in shorts make this one a timeless wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down without having to compromise on comfort. 

Girlfriend Collective Skort – Black, $, available at The Sports Edit

Tourist tees aren’t what they once were so I’m loving Holzweiler’s old-school spin on them. I’m a sucker for a good graphic T-shirt and the cherry on top is that this one features artwork of a beautiful wonder from where I’m from! While I have yet to make it to the Geirangerfjord, sue me for wanting to pretend with this T-shirt.

Holzweiler W. Wings Tourist Tee White Geiranger, $, available at Holzweiler

Maybelle Morgan, Entertainment Editor
Before you roll your eyes, I know. Past me would rage against this kind of thing but I’ve been fully sucked in by the resurgence of Y2K – just in time for late summer. I actually love the low-drop waist for a peep of belly and the kilt-ish cut. To be worn with knee-high cowboy boots (when the summer eves are more bearable, less incinerated by the sun).

ASOS DESIGN Casual wrap skirt with buckles, $, available at ASOS

So simple, they look cartoon; like they were drawn with a marker pen in a rush. Plimsolls are such an easy summer win and the thick, black rubber soles are a subtle statement.

Dancer X Last Resort AB VM003, $, available at Wood Wood

At the moment, 90% of my daydreams involve me bounding around London with this squishy, lumpy number. I love the tangy mandarin shade – a colour protest/perfect accompaniment to my hot summer uniform (slinky black maxi skirt and a white vest).

Poppy Lissiman Puff Bag Mandarin, $, available at Poppy Lissiman

Jacqueline Kilikita, Senior Beauty Editor
I’ve been looking for a small but substantial evening bag and I think this might be it. Plus, I have a serious thing for harlequin print. Move over, checks!

Urban Revivo Shoulder bag in black and white diamond, $, available at ASOS

I never buy designer sunglasses because I have a habit of either leaving them somewhere or sitting on them. This rectangle tort pair looks expensive but won’t break the bank entirely.

Le Specs Oh Damn! LDT EDT, $, available at Le Specs

I’m after a chic dress for a very laid-back wedding and I don’t do florals or fussy prints. This is quite simple but the tie on the bust gives it a little edge.

& Other Stories Flutter Sleeve Satin Midi Dress, $, available at & Other Stories

Susan Devaney, Acting Managing Editor
The hair claw has experienced something of a renaissance over the past two years, thanks in part to life in lockdown and rewatching Friends on Netflix, bringing about a renewed love for Rachel Green’s minimal ’90s aesthetic. Rising brand Tortware has mastered the humble clip with a twist and I’m on board. I’ve got my eye on this iteration in moonstone leopard to add some Melanie B kind of spice to my summer looks.

Tortware LORA clip in Moonstone Leopard, $, available at Tortware

I anticipate a crisp white shirt being the hardest working item in my wardrobe this summer and autumn. I want it to be breathable for those h-o-t Tube commutes and Pip Durell’s London-based brand With Nothing Underneath seems to offer up just the thing. The Boyfriend is made from 50% linen and 50% cotton, the perfect fabric combination for rising heat. It might just be the one.

WNU The Boyfriend: Weave, White, $, available at WNU

It’s a rare sight to see me in a bright hue. And yet I find myself drawn to Totême’s Espera dress in a bold blood orange. It’s the ideal, slip-on-and-go ribbed-knit dress to see you through the summer. And its timeless appeal means that if I do invest, I’ll be wearing it all through summer 2023, too.

Toteme Espera ribbed-knit maxi dress, $, available at Net-A-Porter

Esther Newman, Affiliate Writer
I’ve been big on the chain belt trend for a while now but just waiting to find the perfect one. This silver and turquoise belt from Urban Outfitters is a winner. It looks far more expensive than it really is and adds a cool touch of boho-glam to any outfit, especially my summer go-to: a simple tank top and midi skirt.

Urban Outfitters UO Turquoise Chain Belt, $, available at Urban Outfitters

I’m all about white-on-white outfits for summer – just imagine this top paired with a flouncy, white skirt and some vintage cowboy boots. Consider it a 2022 upgrade on 2020’s cottagecore milkmaid trend.

& Other Stories A-Line Lace Top, $, available at & Other Stories

Monika The Label never disappoints with its Cali-glam-meets-London-cool designs but the new Harry co-ord in Sunset Stripe is an instant add-to-cart moment. The colours are gorgeous and it’s made from a super soft, light viscose, making it perfect for summer heatwaves. What really sold me though is the cropped cut of the waistcoat – I’m petite with a short torso so it’s my perfect fit. Catch me wearing the full set or mix ‘n’ matching the separates all summer long (while listening to Harry’s House, of course).

Monika The Label Harry Co Ord – Sunset Stripe, $, available at Monika The Label

Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health & Living Editor
I’ve never known my colleague Vicky Spratt to steer me wrong, so when she recommended these swimming shoes on her trip to Italy I was well and truly #influenced. I’m sick of being bamboozled by the allure of outdoor wild swimming and getting stuck in mulch or on painful rocks. But no more! Never again!

Arena Arena Beach Sharm 2 Aqua Shoes, $, available at Trade Inn

I love the designs of Alice of ROWS Knitwear. This crochet block top is the ideal in-between project for even the worst crocheter* and I’m using up some leftover yarn making this a summer bargain. If you’ve never made your own clothes before this is a great starter pattern!

*It is me, I am the worst crocheter.

When I play fantasy shopping, this is the kind of thing I lust after. Slightly impractical, slightly ridiculous, strangely reminiscent of Edwardian blouses. Somehow my style has returned to the kind of outfits that I would have loved when I was six and obsessed with The Nutcracker ballet. Go figure.

Batsheva Ashlyn two-tone velvet and moiré dress, $, available at Net-A-Porter

Anna Jay, Art Director
I just love the simplicity of this necklace and So Just Shop does lots for positive social change.

So Just Shop Gold ‘Kavita’ Necklace, $, available at Frankly

I’ve become a full-time swimsuit wearer – see ya, miss-sized top and bottom bikinis. This check one from Arket is a real keeper and would look cute worn as a top too.

Arket Seersucker Swimsuit, $, available at Arket

I clicked buy so quickly on these, they are the perfect everyday sandal (alongside Birks, of course).

St. Agni Gio Two-tone Leather Slingback Sandals, $, available at Net-A-Porter

Jacqueline Kilikita, Senior Beauty Editor
I’m not much of a skirt person but shorts I can definitely do. I love this laid-back and floaty, two-tone pair, which I’d team with an oversized tee, lots of gold jewellery and chunky sandals.

& Other Stories Two-Tone Terry Shorts, $, available at & Other Stories

This side-slit knitted dress would be perfect for summer evenings when the temperature drops. It’d go well with a pair of barely there sandals or my trusty Dr. Martens if I wanted to toughen it up.

Mango Side Slit Knit Dress, $, available at Mango

What can I say? I love a chunky shoe! I’m into the burgundy sole and the leather looks really soft and comfy. I feel like they’re going to become my go-to pair this summer.

Staud Fly Leather Platform Sandals, $, available at Net-A-Porter

Alicia Lansom, Editorial Assistant
After watching a string of viral driving TikToks a while back, I set my sights on owning a silky scarf. This one is big enough to work as both a bandana and a tie top so I’m calling it a 2-4-1 investment.

Jakke Annabel Scarf Green Stripe, $, available at Jakke

Chunky hoops are one of the world’s best inventions IMO. I normally classify myself as a silver jewellery person but for summer I’m leaning into glistening gold, starting with these chubby beauties.

Missoma Mini Chubby Hoop Earrings, $, available at Missoma

Don’t worry, I’m not stepping into autumn just yet. This khaki polo dress is actually surprisingly lightweight and will add to my slowly growing collection of clothes that aren’t black. Hooray!

Ted Baker PILEEPA Polo midi dress, $, available at Ted Baker London

Vicky Spratt, Features Editor
A neon orange crochet bucket hat. I refuse to explain this. It speaks for itself.

Arket Crochet Hat, $, available at Arket

Okay, firstly, I don’t think you can have too many pairs of Converse hi-tops. Secondly, these are lilac (well, according to Converse they’re the colour of ‘Himalayan Salt’). They should make up for the fact that everything else I wear is either black or white.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star 70 Hi W Himalayan Salt, $, available at Goodhood

Is this the LBD to end all LBDs? Quite possibly. Amina Muaddi is a footwear designer and this dress is the result of her collaboration with hosiery staple Wolford. It drapes and ruches in all the right places. If I could justify another LBD, I would buy it.

AMINA MUADDI X WOLFORD Draped Stretch-jersey Mini Dress, $, available at Selfridges

Kristine Romano, Junior Designer
Even though my bralettes have barely seen the light of day since pre-pandemic, I’ve been eyeing this beautiful, hand-dyed piece. I love that it’s handmade and it looks super comfy too.

Or Else Bralette Green, $, available at Or Else

From the roomy fit to the long length, shorts don’t get more perfect than these. I don’t often gravitate towards coloured denim but this particular shade of yellow feels like summer.

Lucy & Yak Bonnie Short – Buttercup, $, available at Lucy & Yak

I’m definitely a ‘less is more’ type of gal when it comes to leaving the house – I hate being weighed down by my bag. This corduroy sling-tote is a dream and perfectly sized for all my essentials.

Strome Limited Edition Sling-tote / Thistle, $, available at Strome

Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health & Living Writer
Technically we don’t have to wear masks anymore but that’s not going to stop me doing it for my own peace of mind. In any case I’m enjoying them doubling up as a colourful accent to my outfits.

Rosana Exposito Reusable Cloth Face Mask, $, available at Wearth London

So I know the world is opening up again but all I really want is another set of pyjamas. This is the prime time to invest in a made-to-order, ethically sourced linen pyjama set. I love the many potential colourways available here.

mantaikotai Linen pyjamas, $, available at Etsy

Ohhhh this dress. I am infatuated with this dress. I have no need or real reason for it except for the fact that it reminds me that behind the storms and the dark clouds, blue skies are always there. This dress feels like remembering the blue sky.

Yolke Beatrice Dress Tulip Print, $, available at Yolke

Georgia Murray, Fashion Editor
I, like every other lockdown cliche, have discovered the joy of cycling. I haven’t braved any main roads but pootling around south London’s backstreets on my two-wheeled steed gives me the same freeing feeling as dancing or swimming. Alas, none of my flared jeans are suitable to wear (chain, oil etc.), so I go for leggings instead. This pair from Tala is such a fun colour (I wear oversized band tees, tank tops and men’s shirts with mine), eco-friendly and breathable. I wear them as much on the old bike as I do for a 5k around the park. 

Tala Zinnia Legging, $, available at Tala

Besides my trusty Birkenstocks and Crocs (I know, I know, but I’m converted!), I’ve only worn one style of footwear since lockdown: the canvas shoe. Whether it’s my Keds, Converse, Novestas or Vans, there’s something so simple about the breathable and comfortable plimsoll that feels appropriate right now. Enter my next favourite: Superga’s classic 2490 COTU style in golden yellow. I’ll be wearing with white jeans and ringer tees for a ‘70s summer look.

Superga 2490 Cotu, $, available at Superga

I wore this slip dress from sustainable Australian brand St. Agni on my birthday in June and felt the best I had since lockdown began. I usually avoid slip dresses due to the lack of boob support but hidden seams in this one kept me comfortable going bra-free. 

St. Agni Anouk Silk Slip Dress, $, available at Browns

Anna Jay, Art Director
I’m patiently waiting for these to come back into stock. I’ll wear them under dresses for long days in the park, and for the long cycle rides I’ve discovered in lockdown.

Girlfriend Collective Bike Stretch Shorts, $, available at Net-A-Porter

I’m really not thinking about buying clothes at the moment but looking ahead to the next season, I definitely have a gap for a good straight trouser and these (elasticated! waist!) fit the bill perfectly. 

Everlane The Easy Straight Leg Chino, $, available at Everlane

If I’m going to have to start doing more than 300 steps a day now we’re out more, I’d prefer to do so in these dream cloudlike sneaks.

VEJA Venturi Trainers, $, available at Arket

Alicia Lansom, Editorial Assistant
Being 5’2 makes it virtually impossible to find a short dress that doesn’t fall below my knees. This month I have set myself the task of finding a mini dress that won’t end up wrapping my legs in metres of fabric. Hopefully this lilac number was made with short people in mind.

Stradivarius Short Swiss Embroidery Dress, $, available at Stradivarius

No matter how hard I try to get away, black sandals always pull me back in. This Vagabond pair meets my criteria of being both chunky and comfy, meaning they’ll be perfect for wandering around my local park all summer.

Vagabond Black Leather Sandals, $, available at Vagabond

I fell in love with this choker when I realised it looked like a very fancy (and inedible) candy necklace. Created with sustainably sourced pearls, this would be the perfect addition to any of my summer staycation outfits.

Olivia & Pearl Keshi Choker, $, available at Olivia & Pearl

Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health & Living Writer
I haven’t worn any shoes that aren’t slippers or Birkenstocks since March and probably never will again. So I want some ethically made fun socks to pair with my beat-up Birks.

Rapanui Women’s Bamboo Socks, $, available at Rapanui

These may not be super summery but I love the fit, colour and quality of these high-waisted jeans from Lucy and Yak. Perfect for the less warm summer days. I’ve been a big fan of the brand from afar for its ethical and organic credentials. I just haven’t bought (yet), partly because I haven’t got around to it and partly because I would love for the brand to expand its size range further. Plus-size people want ethical fashion too

Lucy & Yak ‘Addison’ High Waisted Organic Cotton Twill Jeans, $, available at Lucy & Yak

All I really want in life is to waft around in a linen dress. So I should probably get a really good one – like this one!

Toast Cotton Linen Workwear Dress, $, available at Toast

Vicky Spratt, Features Editor
Life is just one long search for the perfect leopard print. Here is a fine example. I’m going camping with some pals which, in honesty, isn’t really my thing. But if I were wearing this bikini top, I think I would probably just about be able to cope with the lack of hot water. Probably. 

Fisch Grenadins Leopard-Print Underwired Bikini Top, $, available at Net-A-Porter

I am currently devastated because my favourite pair of vintage Levi’s ripped along the bum seam as I bent down to load my washing machine. Yep, that’s how exciting my life is right now. I wore them ALL THE TIME and I’m beside myself so I am probably going to shell out on a brand-new pair which, okay, won’t be faded and worn but might just live a little longer than a vintage pair. I’m really mindful of the impact denim production has on the environment so I try not to buy jeans too often but I’ll have these for a very long time (I hope). 

Levi’s 501 High Rise Jeans, $, available at Liberty London

I could write something really wordy and pseudo-intellectual here, an ode to these hoops. But let’s be real, I just like gold hoops. I can never have enough. Sophie Buhai has, once again, nailed the perfect statement hoop which means I can be super lazy and just wear jeans and a white T-shirt while still looking like I’ve made an effort. Simple and effective. Not sure I can justify them right now because I have approx 15 pairs of gold hoops in my possession but…if I could…I would. 

Sophie Buhai Tiny Egg Gold Vermeil Hoops, $, available at Matches Fashion

Jacqueline Kilikita, Beauty Editor

I’ve been looking for a shirt to combat chilly evenings for a while but they’ve all been a bit too thin or have a pattern I’m not quite into. This one looks just right and I love the muted mint green hue.

Zara Overshirt With Pockets, $, available at Zara

As well as my purse and phone, a good bag needs to be able to fit crisps, dip and Whispering Angel (all the important stuff). This woven shopper is summery and practical in equal measure.

Joules Albury Woven Straw Shopper Bag, $, available at Very

I’m not usually a dress person but I thought I’d nudge myself out of my comfort zone and buy a couple of floral dresses this summer. The thing is, they look a bit too cutesy with sandals, so I’m on the hunt for a pair of boots to toughen them up a little bit. These chunky leather Chelsea boots are perfect and they look super comfy, too.

& Other Stories Chunky Leather Chelsea Boots, $, available at & Other Stories

Jessica Morgan, Staff Writer
I know we said we weren’t wearing bras in lockdown but I’m at the stage where getting dressed is vital for me to feel normal, so it’s time to look after myself. This luxury bralette is the perfect treat for my boobs.

Heist The Bralette, $, available at Heist

I’ve been wanting a grey pair of New Balance since I saw someone wearing a nice pair on Instagram. Influenced? Yes. They’ll go nicely with a pastel floral dress. 

New Balance 574 Core, $, available at New Balance

I love minimal jewellery and I need more rings on my fingers, obviously.

All Blues Snake Ring Thick, $, available at All Blues

Kristine Romano, Photo & Design Assistant
I love all things puff-sleeved. Dresses, shirts, jumpers…you name it! This top would likely replace the plain white tee in my wardrobe.

Monki Balloon Sleeve Top, $, available at Monki

My bike shorts have definitely seen better days so I figure it’ll be time to invest in a more long-wearing pair soon. This pair by Prism can be worn as sportswear, swimwear or shapewear and fit UK sizes 6-16 in one. I love multi-use garments but I especially love that these will adapt to my body, not constrict it.

Prism London Open Minded Shorts, $, available at Prism London

If I ever trade up my trainers for sandals, it will be because of these! I am fully here for the fisherman sandal trend. I also just love a good pair of Docs. These are perfectly breezy for summer but also provide enough coverage that I can wear them into autumn (or maybe even winter if I’m feeling adventurous) by pairing them with some socks.

Dr Martens Leather Fisherman Sandals, $, available at DR MARTENS

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