The key buys for summer 2025

From whispers of whimsy and gauzy tulles, to back-to-business tailoring freshened up with athleisure separates, this season's latest collections are a masterclass in how to make tried-andtested classics feel brand new again...

Buttery delectable

After a trend for fiery reds and cocoa browns, it’s time to welcome butter yellow, the pastel palette cleanser that still manages to pack a punch. From the Jacquemus, Versace and Balenciaga runways, to the off-duty wardrobes of Jennifer Lawrence and Hailey Bieber, this dopamine-inducing shade is about to be a wardrobe mainstay.

Sheer delight

Easy, breezy and feather-light, unlike the difficult to style “naked dress”, the sheer blouse can be worn with anything from languid denim to ankle-grazing skirts. And all credit to Zimmerman, Phillip Lim and Stella McCartney for setting the tone for a distinctly bohemian year ahead, as this versatile top replaces the crisp cotton shirt as the dressy go-to for everyday elegance.

Well-crafted

Artisanal detailing takes centre stage as minimalist accessories take a back seat to statement shoes. Intricately woven leather, sculpted wooden heels, hammered studs and embellished charms evoke the feeling of a time spent exploring the globe and collecting mementos. Sorry, flip-flops, but the best new shoes are designed to be the focal point of any carefully considered outfit.

The utility jacket

Before you get ready to confine outerwear to the back of your wardrobe for another year, the latest iteration of the utility jacket deserves your consideration. As the natural evolution of the barn coat, this light and easy layer carries the same boxy silhouette as its predecessor, making it the perfect piece to throw on over romantic dresses, tank tops and cargo trousers. Simple, but undoubtedly effective.

Supersized suede

It would take a lot to topple the raffia basket from its standing as one functinal bag, but slouchy suede totes are positioned to be the next big thing quite literally. If it’s large enough to fold up under your arm à la 16Arlington, or to casually hang from your shoulder as seen at Khaite, you’ve nailed the brief. This versatile bag is the practical answer to finding the ideal elevated carry-all for a very laid-back accessory.