Shorts
Shorts are a big versatile piece for this Spring/Summer, and you’ll be square if you don’t invest in a pair (I always like to start with a bit of witty banter). When it comes to denim shorts this summer I’m almost slightly ashamed at my pick – I’m jumping head-first into the hipster ‘USAFlag’ trend we’ve seen growing over the past year or so with these Topshop hotpants priced at £34. Tacky, yes, but I’ll still be wearing them. Let me know if you find a nicer pair. If you’re looking for more ladylike daywear, channel your inner Chanel with Zara’s striped Nautical shorts – even comes with a matching jacket if you’re feeling really daring.
Lace culotte-types are huge for eveningwear, with Whistles having sold out of their £140 ‘Daisy’ shorts within weeks of their appearance in stores. But you can pick up two nifty copies at Zara again for £20-25.
Zara Nautical Stripe Shorts (£22.99), Topshop Flag Shorts (£34), Zara Crotchet Shorts (£24.99)
Coloured Jeans
Skinny-strech jeans have slowly taken over the (frankly, hideous) leggings fashion, and now they’ve appeared in rainbow hues to replace traditional ¾ length summer pants. All of you royal-stalkers out there will have seen K-Mid sporting an unidentified pair to play hockey in last week, and they’ve appeared on off-duty models after fashion week shows all over the globe. Stick to stone if you’re used to a more traditional style and dress up with an ethnic blouse – or wear a brighter colour with a crisp shirt and blazer if you’re more Fitch than floaty.
Dorothy Perkins are selling jeans in summery shades of pastel as well as modern classics such as Navy and Coral (or Salmon Pink, take your pick..) for the rather covetable price of £25. Ted Baker also carries coloured jeans in corduroy and denim for £79 – they’re brilliant quality, and those of you who stayed in York over Easter can find them in the designer outlet at a discounted price!
Dorothy Perkins (£25, Dorothy Perkins), Ted Baker (£79, Ted Baker)
Silk Scarves
In case you hadn’t noticed, British Prep is in this summer. For those who aren’t the biggest fans of this style – I used to be a Goth, for one – it’s time to finally suck it up and join your local rowing club.
French luxury brand Hermés has been long-famous for its silk twill scarves, and equestrian style is hitting the High Street with full force. If you’re looking to copy thisstyle on a student budget then Accessorize have scarves for around £15, but Joules are selling real silk versions for around £30 in a variety of country prints and polka dots. If your style is more edgy, then try Topshop for a copy of the legendary McQueen skull scarf.
Hermés, Joules (£34, Joules), Alexander McQueen (£295 – Topshop version £22)
Satchels
It’s time to get scholarly; if you’re going to invest in one accessory this season it’s time to copy your lecturers and snap up an old-school British satchel. They come in a variety of bold colours and patterns, as well as being massively functional. If you’re a really big fan then try the Cambridge Satchel Company or Zatchels (availableon ASOS) – these trendy higher-end satchel brands are regularly sported by celebrities for both day and night occasions – or head to Accessorize or River Island for cheaper alternatives. My favourite is Barbour’s Liberty Print round mini-satchel, you can also buy the matching coat and Jack Wills did a dress with the same print a few years ago…..
Barbour Liberty Print Satchel (£100, Barbour), Cambridge Satchel Company (£114, Asos), Polka Dot Zatchel (£69, Asos)
Canvas Shoes
Canvas shoes are an easy way of doing ‘comfortable casual’ while staying trendy and fashionistas everywhere are looking to USA giants TOMS and Converse for this summer’s styles. Although you might find yourself drawn to the £18 Topshop pair rather than the heftier £30 TOMS price tag, remember that each pair you pampered students purchase provides a child in need with a pair too.
TOMS (£34, Office), Converse (£40, Office), Vans (£40, Office)