Most Wanted

The end of summer heralds the beginning of the new season, shifting our sartorial attention towards trans-seasonal hero pieces that will see us through our social events in style. But with the haze of long, hot days still flickering in our minds, we’re not quite ready to double down on sweaters or embrace outerwear and a back-to-school mentality. Right now, we’re looking for pieces that encapsulate the freedom and vivacious spirit of summer that will also work hard for us once the thermometer starts to drop.

Enter Stella McCartney’s sumptuous column gown. With its Grecian-style silhouette, in mood it riffs on aperitivo hour, and in its bold hue it embraces the vitality of the long, hot months. But its refined scarf neckline – which offers an exquisite drape – can be seen as a playful step into the notion of fall accessorizing.

It’s for this reason that it caught the eye of content director Alice Casely-Hayford this season, topping her wish list for FW23. “This silk dress from Stella McCartney is the ultimate trans-seasonal gown,” she says. “The column silhouette is so timeless, and it won’t need much in the way of accessories, so I know it will become my reliable go-to for events when I don’t have time to think too much about my outfit.” Casely-Hayford imagines wearing it with a blazer for an easy after-dark look this forthcoming party season. By summer, “it will be just as easily paired with flat sandals on vacation,” she says.

For an effortless look, team with a neutral blazer; the dress’s lipstick-red hue will pop against a softer palette. Stella McCartney’s woolen blazer, with its structured tailoring, is just the ticket – both the dress and blazer are hero pieces within NET SUSTAIN, our edit of responsibly made wares that meet strict criteria of best-practice production and are designed with the planet in mind. Loeffler Randall’s satin ballet flats, Completedworks’ chunky gold earrings and a tonal chain-strap bag from Stella McCartney perfect this dinner-ready look.

Heading to work? Pair the blazer with Mother’s high-rise jeans – a smart-casual alternative to tailored pants. Make the most of the trans-seasonal sunshine by pairing them with St. Agni’s supple leather sandals, while Chloé’s grab-handle bag and Kimeze’s tortoiseshell frames will lend a tonal, timeless feel no matter the season, or where you’re heading.

Browse this week’s New In.