Sometimes I exhaust even myself because of how high-maintenance I have become. More face creams, more blow-drys, more outfit changes – the list goes on. I don’t think I will change as I get older, either.
Who knows? I might even get worse. I often ask myself wouldn’t life be so much easier if I just got up in the morning, chucked on some clothes, ran a brush through my hair and left the house.
But this leap is now never likely to happen.
Jumper, Helmut Lang, Skirt, Zimmermann, Bag, Sézane, and Shoes, Jil Sander
I fear I have crossed the point of no return. My high-maintenance tendencies particularly come to the fore when we are going on holiday. Pedicure? Tick. Too many dresses and shoes packed? Tick, tick. Hair straighteners, hair masks, sunhats and raffia baskets to accessorise outfits? Tick, tick, tick, tick.
Meanwhile, the men in my house seem to open their suitcase, fill it in about ten minutes flat and leave without a care. This summer, playful and romantic dressing is back, so this really does not bode well for my luggage allowance. Although my style is generally pared down, I am partial to mixing in a little whimsy.
Cue Sarah Jessica Parker in that bombshell Simone Rocha tulle dress threaded with roses during her first week back as Carrie on And Just Like That… or Anya Taylor-Joy and her fabulous giant sunhat in Cannes.
If there’s any season of the year to be super-feminine and playful, it’s summer: three months of escapist dressing when the blissful art of wafting is paramount. Whether you are at home or on holiday abroad, nothing beats it. Why do you think the TV series Bridgerton is so popular? It’s largely down to all those characters gliding around in romantic frocks.
Here are my tips on how to add whimsy to your existing summer wardrobe this year.
1. Following Anya Taylor-Joy’s style cue, add a huge sunhat to your summer dress. There is a terrific selection now available on the high street or in designer stores such as Celine and Dior.
2. Appliqué flowers on a skirt, dress or top are a fantastic way of lending a little romance to your wardrobe.
3. Wear statement earrings with a simple outfit, such as a pair of jeans and shirt. They really elevate a look.
4. Invest in a full skirt and style it with something structured on top like a waistcoat or blazer to keep a flattering silhouette.
5. Accessorise with a large raffia bag or basket. Team puffy-sleeved tops with contrasting streamlined tailored trousers or linen pencil skirts.
Skirt, £325, needleandthread.com
Frill seekers
Nobody does playful like Needle & Thread. Show up and stand out in the brand’s Hattie ruffle skirt. Team with something sleek like a waistcoat, a white shirt or a summer knit.
Bangle, £80, wilsonjewellery.com
A fresh twist
Looking for some summer arm candy? This elegant bangle from Wilson Jewellery ticks all the boxes. Inspired by vintage finds, it’s made to be worn every day.
Word on the street
If Anne Hathaway shows up to a Bulgari event in Rome wearing a Gap shirt dress accessorised with the luxury brand’s jewels (left), it’s a clear indicator that the former high-street favourite will be making a strong comeback. Stay tuned.