Ask Courtney: Summer Must-Haves

13 December 2020
By Fashion Quarterly

FQ's creative director shares her current style and trend advice.

“I find myself bored with my staple summer wardrobe pieces. What are the key accessories I should be investing in this season to elevate my look?”

It’s no surprise that come the new season, you find yourself bored with last year’s ensembles. Much like the first day of summer has every person running to put on their shorts (regardless of the actual temperature), my urge comes less in the form of shorts, but to examine my already well-stocked wardrobe, and yearn for more of the exact summer staples that already exist in there. But why? Is it an addiction to shiny new things? The desire of reinvention that comes with a new season? Whatever it is, it’s an impulse that must be kicked.

Before you reach out to replace those staples, stop and take note of your needs over wants. Embrace your lived-in pieces and rejuvenate your look with these top 4 essentials to get you through the balmy months, and beyond. Look to the art of accessorising and opt for adornments both sartorial and functional, and you might even surprise yourself – some of these items may already be lurking at the back of your closet!

 1. The Sun Hat

Your wardrobe’s answer to SPF; to stay cool – both in temperature and style – under the sun.

Rebe Resort Panama Hat

This Rebe Resort Panama hat has us feeling a lot like style icon Jackie Kennedy. For ultimate 360° sun protection, this panama hat will see you through lazy days by the pool to summer soirees. Simply add a pair of large dark shades and you’ll be on your way to holiday in the Hamptons (figuratively, of course). 

Lorna Murray Capri Hat

For those of us that will be on-the-go this summer, but still in need of the sun shading effects of a wide brimmed hat, the Lorna Murray Capri Hat will be your new best friend. The hat is specifically designed to collapse and fold down for ease of travel, and includes side ties as anchors for the summer breeze. 

2. The Slide

Combine comfort and style as you navigate the beach, bar and pool. 

La Tribe Pool Slide

La Tribe puts their own, elevated spin on the shoe of the season. With a quilted front strap on a moulded leather footbed and non-slip rubber soles, these slides can weather any terrain. 

Marni Fussbet Criss-Cross Sandals

Spoil your feet with these luxurious Marni staples. A cult favourite with fashionistas alike, you’ll never want to take these slides off (and you won’t have to with the back ankle strap)!

3. The Tote Bag

The ultimate summer carry-all.

Yu Mei Claudia Tote

Dubbed as Yu Mei’s most sophisticated style, the Claudia Tote is for the ultimate jetsetter. Reimagined for the season ahead in a cotton and linen blend canvas, this tote makes for a fitting beach, travel – and back-to-work – companion. 

Palorosa Handwoven Basket

For the modern cottage-core enthusiast (that’s wanting something a little more hardy than your average natural woven tote), Palorosa’s handwoven basket totes are the ultimate everyday carry-all. Designed in Milan and handwoven from recycled plastic in Guatemala, these bags help to preserve the traditional handicraft processes of Guatemalan artisans in a refreshing and innovative way. 

4. Summer Shades

Protect those peepers from the sun’s harsh rays.

Karen Walker Furnace Sunglasses

Karen Walker’s iconic sunglasses need no introduction. Her latest, gold-rimmed take on the classic aviator frame exudes elegance and glamour.

Chloé Elaia Oversized Sunglasses

An FQ team favourite, we can’t go past an oversized pair of Chloé frames. The Elaia sunglasses pay tribute to the sunset hues of the ’70s and will have you in beach party mode all summer long. 

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