Most Wanted

As the sun begins to make more regular appearances, it’s time to look to lighter pieces in irresistible natural finishes. Introduce them into your rotation now and you’ll inevitably wear them all summer long.

Whether you’re enjoying your first alfresco celebrations, jetting off on a European city break, or escaping to a remote coastal retreat, the sunshine calls for breezy separates in organic textures and playful accessories in interesting weaves that match the carefree spirit of summer. Think crisp linen dresses, crocheted cotton cover-ups and raffia accessories trimmed with beads, tassels and playful fringing.

“For me, spring/summer dressing should be as straightforward as possible to maximize time in the sun,” says NET-A-PORTER buying manager Faye Squire. “The easiest way to do this is by incorporating a raffia shoe or bag into my rotation of linen shirting and denim shorts, but I’m also a big fan of a crochet maxi dress as the ultimate one-and-done outfit,” she adds.

Nailing the brief is Isabel Marant’s fringed ‘Metilia’ poncho, which will look as chic layered over a white tank and capris in spring as it will with swimwear come high summer. Nili Lotan’s ‘Della’ style is an equally smart investment, crafted with a delicate, lace-inspired floral pattern that could easily be mistaken for an original ’70s design. Not only is it beautiful, but it’s versatile enough to wear from day to night with a few easy styling tweaks. Wear it barefoot with a bikini at the beach, swapping the look for a tonal slip and heels, such as the ‘Pebble’ pair by Loewe Paula’s Ibiza, for a sunset dinner. As for accessories, don’t be afraid to have a little fun now – Chloé’s woven leather bag is topped with a parrot-shaped handle that’s sure to spark conversation wherever you go.

Your balmy summer escape should involve little more than sunbathing, sea swims and the occasional sojourn into town, so seize the opportunity to travel light. Curate pieces you can mix and match or wear in multiple ways that will take all the stress out of packing. Zimmermann’s crocheted cotton pareo, for instance, looks ultra chic tied over Hunza G’s beaded ‘Gina’ bikini, but can also be draped over your shoulders like a shawl in the evening. Style it with Ancient Greek Sandals’ shell-embellished ‘Filothea’ flats and Dragon Diffusion’s ‘Terrafino’ tote for trips to the local farmer’s market. Woven entirely by hand, it has plenty of room inside for your spring essentials – including sunglasses, your wallet and sunscreen – plus any additional trinkets you pick up along the way. Wear it ahead of your vacation, to add some seasonal texture to your current off-duty wardrobe.

Browse more in this week’s New In.