Most Wanted

There’s something about denim in summer that feels infinitely cooler than at any other time of year. Whether it’s the way it lends edge to lighter, more delicate fabrics like linen, lace and silk, or its starring role in some of cinema’s most iconic sun-drenched films – from Dirty Dancing and Thelma & Louise to Almost Famous’s Penny Lane – there’s no denying denim’s timeless, warm-weather allure. As style icons past and present have proven, denim separates in lighter washes and loose-fitting shapes are perfect for navigating humid days in the city or by the coast with ease.

While we are forever faithful to jeans in a true-blue hue (see Hailey Bieber in the most perfect frayed denim cutoffs), we, like actor and other modern denim muse Daisy Edgar Jones, are big fans of white denim at NET-A-PORTER HQ. “There is an understated luxury to white denim – it’s where I feel my most effortless,” says NET-A-PORTER assistant buyer Oli Suter. “Lately, Citizens of Humanity’s ‘Ayla’ shorts have been my ultimate heatwave savior, striking that perfect balance between office polish and downtown cool. I love keeping the silhouette strictly monochrome with a sharp black belt and layered tanks, then punctuating the look with a vibrant pop of color via this amazing Sensi Studio tote,” she adds. Alternatively, style yours with a bikini top, adding Saint Laurent’s ‘Babylone’ lace-up sandals and Jil Sander’s beaded necklace if you’re escaping to the beach for the weekend.

Just when you thought you couldn’t justify another pair of blue jeans, Junya Watanabe drops a pair unlike any other in your wardrobe. They’re made from distressed selvedge denim and detailed with two printed satin scarfs that can either be left to drape loose along the sides or tied at the waist. Channel a modern-day Jane Birkin with a baby tee, basket bag and boat shoes on casual days or emulate Sade’s signature look with a shirt either in a different shade of denim (we love Agolde’s western-inspired ‘Lotta’ style) or crisp white cotton, plus Lie Studio’s gold hoops. Finally, elevate the look for low-key dinner dates with Toteme’s lizard-effect mules and a red lip.

Browse more in this week’s New In.