The Fashion Memo

The Look: French summer florals

Look 1, clockwise from top left: sunglasses, Celine Eyewear; earrings, Jennifer Fisher; blouse, Isabel Marant; Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF30; watch, Cartier; bag, Loewe; sandals, Porte & Paire; shorts, Tu es mon Tresor. Look 2: jeans, Citizens of Humanity; blouse, Isabel Marant; earrings, Alessandra Rich; watch, Jaeger-LeCoultre; Byredo Mixed Emotions Eau de Parfum; pumps, Manolo Blahnik; bag, Saint Laurent
Fashion

This season, Isabel Marant is staying true to her bohemian roots with the ‘Zarga’ blouse – a puffy-sleeved paisley number crafted from delicate crepe de chine. Floaty and feminine, yet undeniably cool, it captures that signature Rive Gauche essence we’re all so keen to exude.

So how does one style such an eye-catching print? For an afternoon of lunching alfresco, try teaming it with white denim shorts – this high-waisted pair from French label Tu es Mon Tresor is cut slightly wider in the leg for an extra-flattering fit. A pair of cat-eye sunglasses can lend high-fashion kudos to any outfit, and Celine Eyewear’s chunky tortoiseshell design is a favorite of street-style stars for good reason. Meanwhile, Loewe’s ‘Anagram’ tote is as versatile as it is roomy – perfect for packing picnic essentials (and that all-important SPF). Understated jewelry picks, such as Jennifer Fisher’s everyday gold hoops and the classic ‘Baignoire’ timepiece from Cartier, ensure the blouse remains the focal point, while Porte & Paire’s barely-there leather sandals are an ultra-chic way to ride out any heatwave.

This floral blouse works just as well for a more elevated affair, too. When dressing for balmy summer evenings, simply switch out the shorts and sandals, and trade daytime browns for elegant all-white finishes. A cropped, distressed jean, like Citizens of Humanity’s ‘Daphne’, might not be an obvious choice for a drinks do, but it gives high-octane accessories – namely Alessandra Rich’s pear-drop earrings – twice as much impact. Manolo Blahnik’s ladylike white satin pumps, with their Swarovski crystal detail, add unquestionable glamor to any nighttime look, while Saint Laurent’s quilted leather ‘Sade’ clutch will help soften any edges. Complete the look with Jaeger-LeCoultre’s bracelet-like ‘Reverso’ – the subtle diamond bezel will shimmer each time you sip your spritz.