Batik Aztec – Summer’s Essential 'It' Print
Hold the florals, it’s all about Aztec on the pattern front this season, and the look has had a batik revamp. Instead of sharp, graphic prints, it’s all about more going abstract and almost hand drawn. On everything from summer frocks to statement tops and polished tailoring, here are three buys to tick off the trend...
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A tribal shirt is a must-buy piece when it comes to taking a strong print into work-friendly territory. For the office, avoid any extra complicated pieces and go for a simple pencil skirt or cigarette trousers and polished blazer. Off-duty, team it with boyfriend denim and heels for a laidback yet glossy look.
Shirt, £35, Karen Millen
If you’re new to print, a two-in-one dress is the perfect way to dip a toe into the trend. The bottom half packs some serious impact, while the simple top tones things down. Play on the beachy, summer vibe with metallic sandals.
Dress, £49.99, Roxy
Part Aztec, part animal print, this sundress ticks off two trends in one buy. While the bandeau shape is most definitely a high summer style, a denim shirt on top and Cuban-heeled ankle boots make it workable post-holiday, too. For evening, amp up the tribal feel with big earrings and lots of bangles.
Dress, £17.99, Jameela Jamil
Get In On The Breton Top Update
Breton tops have become a staple piece in every stylista’s wardrobe, but this season sees them get a respin. Instead of classic navy and white, we’re talking stripes in pink neon, blocks of colour and bold, clashing shades. Here are the three you need to reinvent the wardrobe classic...
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A bold blue-and-red colour combo makes for a fresh take on the timeless nautical trend, while still staying classic. Add a pair of ballet pumps to nail a stylish Parisian vibe or try this top under a denim dress for a cool weekend combo.
Top, £9.99, Superdry
Don’t be put off buying knits now we’re heading into summer. Cashmere is always worth the investment, and you can wear this and just go jacket-free on balmy days. The flash of bright pink totally peps up the classic stripe and means you don’t need to think about accessories. Trust me, this will be a wear-forever buy.
Top, £59.50, Boden
Neon stripes elevate the simple tee to glam levels, meaning you can take this one from day to night with a simple styling switch-up. Try it with a curve-clinging leather pencil skirt, statement necklace and slick of coordinating lippie to really dress things up.
Top, £7.99, South
Lace Gets A Colour Update
I love lace, so I’m happy to say it’s a firm fixture on the spring trend front. This time though, thanks to Burberry’s reworking, it’s in pastel and candy shades everywhere. From dresses to tops and pencil skirts, if it’s lacy and pale, it’s a must-buy this season. Here are the pieces topping my hit list...
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This chic long-sleeved dress is great if you aren’t ready to bare some skin. The classic shape means it can be dressed up with heels and jewels or down with brogues and a leather jacket. Try it layered over a denim or classic white shirt for even more style kudos.
Dress, £15, Boohoo
This lacy top is just the thing to add an injection of spring to your trusty wardrobe separates. Create extra impact by teaming it with bold clashing colours, but stick to three pieces max. Not into colour-blocking? Nail the look subtly with a contrasting lip colour.
Vest, £3.99, Love Label
If you want to pay homage to the Burberry SS14 collection, a pastel lace pencil skirt is a must. For added catwalk cool, it’s all about wearing it with a jacket in a different pastel shade. Add a tough edge with black accessories.
Skirt, £10, Boohoo
