Jess Cartner-Morley, the Guardian's fashion editor, has curated her July style essentials for 2026, offering a blend of high-street bargains and investment pieces. Her picks include a £55 M&S linen-blend dress, a £750 Loewe raffia tote, and a pair of £180 Birkenstock sandals, reflecting a season of relaxed elegance and practical luxury.
Key Pieces for the Season
The standout item is the M&S linen-blend shirt dress, available in three colors, which Cartner-Morley describes as 'the perfect summer dress for real life.' She also highlights the Loewe Basket bag, a raffia tote that 'adds a touch of effortless chic to any outfit.' For footwear, she recommends the Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle sandals, noting their 'comfort and style factor.'
Affordable Finds and Investment Buys
Other affordable picks include a £25 H&M straw hat and a £40 & Other Stories cotton shirt. On the investment end, Cartner-Morley suggests a £395 Ganni blazer and a £220 Sézane jumper. She emphasizes that 'July style is about balancing comfort with a sense of occasion.'
The fashion editor also praises the return of the '90s slip dress, citing a £120 Reformation version as a versatile piece for day or night. For accessories, she recommends a £55 Cos belt and a £75 Arket canvas bag.
Trends and Tips
Cartner-Morley notes that 'this season is all about texture and natural materials,' with linen, raffia, and cotton dominating her list. She advises readers to invest in a good pair of sunglasses, pointing to a £180 Ray-Ban aviator style. 'July is the month to embrace color,' she adds, recommending a £90 Rixo printed dress as a bold choice.
Her final tip is to 'edit your wardrobe by removing anything that doesn't make you feel great,' ensuring that each piece earns its place. The full list of 20 items ranges from a £12 Primark hair clip to a £1,200 Bottega Veneta clutch, catering to various budgets and tastes.
