Art of Style

Your Summer-In-The-City Survival Guide

When the temperature rises, curating a polished look can feel like a challenge. Discover the tried-and-tested capsule pieces you can depend on to stay stylish in the heat – and wear on repeat

Words Colleen RossFashion editor Millie Parry
Fashion
A breezy shirt is a warm-weather essential – whether it’s for the office or laid-back weekend outings

The breezy shirt

A tailored shirt with a breezy, beach-ready sensibility is perfect for staying cool in the sweltering city heat. Guaranteed to be one of the hardest working pieces in your wardrobe, you can either wear it partially buttoned over wide-leg pants, tucked into tailored shorts for smarter days, or with denim for a weekend brunch. If you’re into prints, you’ll love Marni’s bowling shirt – it’s decorated with a retro-wave motif and has a loose, boxy fit. Alternatively, for something a little more office-appropriate, TWP’s ‘Big Joe’ design looks great paired with linen pants or a column maxi skirt, while Toteme’s ‘Monogram’ style makes a great alternative to suiting, especially when worn with the matching pants.

Whatever your style, knee-length shorts are a sleek alternative to pants on warmer days

The city shorts

Shorts have been given a seriously stylish upgrade in 2026 (cue luxe fabrics and tailored shapes), making a crisply cut pair an elegant addition to your city closet. Invest in fresh linen, cotton or crepe designs to wear with a coordinating oversized blazer and a button-down shirt to work, or opt for a simple tank top. For the office, Saint Laurent’s pleated knee-length shorts are a sleek alternative to pants on warmer days – and just as versatile. Dries Van Noten’s pair in soft cotton-jersey and Róhe’s distressed denim shorts, on the other hand, are an off-duty must-have and look so chic styled with a white tee, basket bag and ballet flats.

The knee-length skirt

The street-style set are all obsessed with knee-length skirts, specifically those in light, flowy shapes. Why? Because they really can be worn anywhere. A touch more practical than a maxi and less revealing than a mini, it’s on par with a midi in terms of versatility but takes the top spot for playfulness. An elegant everyday style, Posse’s polka-dot ‘Leo’ style is made from weightless satin and looks ultra-chic styled with an oversized white shirt (knotted at the waist) and low-heeled mules. For low-key dinner dates, choose Leset’s ‘Barb’ style which has a beautiful, liquid-like drape. Match your shoes to its pearlescent shade and finish the look with an oversized linen blazer.

Knee-length skirts are a versatile must-have for any summer wardrobe
A printed, floaty dress is a summer staple – just add mules, sandals or flats

The printed dress

Closet heroes should be effortless, and the right printed dress will help you look instantly put together, with minimal styling required. The key is to choose a motif that echoes your aesthetic and comes in a silhouette that can easily be paired with sandals, sneakers or flats. For something bold and beautiful, turn to Dries Van Noten’s ‘Davita’ maxi dress, which is printed with optical spots and a highlight from the spring/summer 2026 runway. Elsewhere, Faithfull’s polka-dot number is another gorgeous option – it’s cut from recycled crepe and has a flattering halterneck with ties at the back. The same goes for Zimmermann’s ‘Daylight’ dress in cool linen – the tapestry-inspired botanicals are perfect if you prefer daintier prints. What’s more, both are highlights from our NET SUSTAIN edit.

A woven bag is the ultimate summertime investment piece

The woven bag

In warmer weather, a woven leather bag is a stylish choice. A touch more polished than beachy raffia styles, it will go with everything, from tailoring to midi dresses. Just be sure to choose something timeless that’s spacious enough to hold all your essentials, and by a brand that excels at impeccable craftsmanship. St. Agni’s ‘Bateau’ tote more than meets these criteria – it’s generously sized and has plenty of space for work or weekend essentials. Drawn to classic silhouettes? You’ll find the perfect style in Savette’s ‘Symmetry’ bag, which comes in a structured shape evocative of vintage vanity cases, or Bottega Veneta’s timeless doctor’s tote in classic intrecciato leather.

Thong sandals

Thong sandals are a true summer staple that work just as well with shirt dresses and relaxed tailoring in the city as they do with swimwear and cover-ups when you’re on vacation. Delivering on both minimal elegance and comfort, Emme Parsons’ ‘Meta’ flip flops are crafted from glossy croc-effect leather and will go with all your favorite summer outfits. Elsewhere, Christopher Esber’s wedge-heel sandals are a perfect choice for summer parties and events. Wear them to rooftop drinks with a slip dress.

The people featured in this story are not associated with NET-A-PORTER and do not endorse it or the products shown