16-05-2025
Stylist and fashion influencer Angie Smith reveals her ultimate summer style tips (and they're all about staying comfy!)
Fashion and comfort haven't always gone hand in hand (as anyone who remembers the trend for spiked stilettos and bandage dresses will attest).
In recent years, however, style and practicality have become more aligned. Just look at the way that flat shoes have all but usurped heels, and the burgeoning trends for hiking trainers, utility jackets and maxi dresses – things that, happily, don't make us wince at the thought of wearing them.
One style influencer who champions this casual, comfortable way of looking chic is Angie Smith. Well known for being Holly Willoughby 's former stylist, and now a content creator with a huge following across social media and Substack, Angie's style is all about loose, laidback pieces that still look sophisticated rather than sloppy.
Living in Australia for the past few years, Angie also knows all about summer dressing. So who better to share their tips for looking good in the warmer months? Here's her advice for stylish but practical summer outfits…
Choose looser silhouettes.
Flattering and infinitely more comfortable, easy shapes are what summer style is all about. The best outfits always fall on the body – never cling. If your usual size doesn't quite achieve that look, consider sizing up. If the bust feels too generous, get it tailored for shape without sacrificing drape.
Lean into tonal dressing.
Monochrome creates an instant air of effortlessness. Head-to-toe neutrals, sun-washed terracottas, earthy greens or all-white or cream always look chic, and don't forget how chic black and navy are with summer skin. To keep it interesting, mix in texture—think woven raffia, soft crinkled cotton, aged leather, or that perfectly crumpled linen.
Opt for fabrics that breathe.
You simply can't beat 100% cotton or silk once the temperature rises. They feel good against the skin, hang beautifully, and offer that easy polish that high summer dressing demands.
Linen—crumpled just so—is great too. If you're building your seasonal wardrobe, start here. An oversized cotton or linen shirt is the summer must. Thrown over a tank dress, paired with boxer shorts, or worn open over a swimsuit—it adds structure, polish, and practicality in one. Draped over the shoulders or tied loosely at the waist, it gives a look depth and makes it more intentional.
Get your footwear right.
A minimalist leather slide, a barely-there strappy heel or a handmade espadrille can elevate even the simplest outfit. A neutral pedicure (think soft blush or a creamy nude) adds refinement. And when in doubt, a chic leather or grosgrain flip-flop never misses.
Balance your proportions.
If your shorts are short, balance them with a big shirt. One of my favourite warm-weather looks? Oversized men's boxer shorts, a crisp cotton shirt and a pair of ballet pumps or flip-flops. If I'm wearing longer Bermuda shorts, I'll often pair them with something slightly more fitted or a silhouette that shows a little more skin. Likewise, if you're reaching for trousers or a skirt, a spaghetti-strap linen vest top that falls straight at the waist is incredibly flattering.
Don't underestimate light knits.
A cotton jumper or cardigan is a summer lifesaver. Cool mornings, chilly evenings, over-air-conditioned restaurants—it pays to be prepared. Worn over the shoulders or knotted at the waist, they become part of the outfit, not just an afterthought.
Choose dress shapes that work hard.
A bias cut dress—sized up for ease—will never let you down. Oversized maxi dresses feel modern and timeless in equal measure. While I rarely opt for anything cinched at the waist in high summer, I'll make an exception for a structured cotton or linen mini dress that skims (never clings)
Head to the office in summer tailoring.
A softly structured linen blazer with matching wide-leg trousers or city shorts is the ultimate warm-weather pairing. Choose a muted neutral—stone, oat, tobacco—to keep things elevated. Style with a barely-there silk tank or fine-knit vest. Add a piece of statement jewellery and a minimal sandal with polish.
Repeat outfits unapologetically.
Style—true style—comes from knowing what works and wearing it on repeat. In the heat, that means choosing pieces that make getting dressed feel like second nature. Less fuss. More ease. And clothes that quietly speak for themselves.
Angie has co-designed a 15 piece summer capsule collection with The Upside which will be available on their UK website from 12th June.
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