Life

How to look easy, breezy in neutrals this summer

Mix natural fabrics and subdued hues for a look that's easy, breezy and chic, says Laura Townsend

Monsoon Rita Linen Embroidered Sleeveless Top, £39
Monsoon Rita Linen Embroidered Sleeveless Top, £39 Monsoon Rita Linen Embroidered Sleeveless Top, £39

IT'S everything you could want in a summer look: Neutral colours offering oodles of mix-and-match potential, and a laid-back style to take you comfortably from a day in the office to a rooftop terrace under the sun.

The 'au naturel' trend combines floaty, natural fabrics with soft silhouettes and a muted colour palette, so you can ooze sophistication, with minimal effort required.

Stripped back and fuss-free if you've been looking for a way to put a bit less effort into your wardrobe then perhaps this trend is just what you need.

The only rules? Stick to a pale palette of white, cream, grey, beige or khaki. Keep accessories minimal and when it comes to footwear, try styles in raffia or wicker, like a failsafe espadrille. Here's what you'll need to get started...

SOFT SEPARATES

These easy-to-wear pieces in chalky colours can be endlessly mixed and matched, so anchor your 'au naturel' look around them.

Monsoon Rita Linen Embroidered Sleeveless Top, £39
Monsoon Rita Linen Embroidered Sleeveless Top, £39 Monsoon Rita Linen Embroidered Sleeveless Top, £39
V by Very Paperbag Wrap Midi Skirt, £32
V by Very Paperbag Wrap Midi Skirt, £32 V by Very Paperbag Wrap Midi Skirt, £32
Oliver Bonas Divide Utility Khaki Cotton Mini Skirt, £49.50
Oliver Bonas Divide Utility Khaki Cotton Mini Skirt, £49.50 Oliver Bonas Divide Utility Khaki Cotton Mini Skirt, £49.50
Hobbs Lula Trousers, £110
Hobbs Lula Trousers, £110 Hobbs Lula Trousers, £110
M&Co Belted Linen Blend Herringbone Shorts, £22
M&Co Belted Linen Blend Herringbone Shorts, £22 M&Co Belted Linen Blend Herringbone Shorts, £22

SUBTLE STRIPES

Softened stripes nod to the nautical theme without going (ahem) overboard, while lightweight fabrics will keep you cool balmy summer nights - a minidress or jumpsuit is perfect whether you're packing for a beach trip or city getaway.

Miss Selfridge Camel Striped Tie Front Slip Dress, £28
Miss Selfridge Camel Striped Tie Front Slip Dress, £28 Miss Selfridge Camel Striped Tie Front Slip Dress, £28
M&S Collection Linen Rich Striped Jumpsuit with Belt, £39.50
M&S Collection Linen Rich Striped Jumpsuit with Belt, £39.50 M&S Collection Linen Rich Striped Jumpsuit with Belt, £39.50

ORGANIC ACCESSORIES

Finish off your look with tonal accessories – a straw bag and sandals are a must. For after-dark glam, tortoiseshell and gold jewellery adds a polished edge.

Next Gold Tone Geometric Wood Effect Drop Earrings, £8.50
Next Gold Tone Geometric Wood Effect Drop Earrings, £8.50 Next Gold Tone Geometric Wood Effect Drop Earrings, £8.50
Dune Lemonade Metallic Frayed Trim Mule, £65
Dune Lemonade Metallic Frayed Trim Mule, £65 Dune Lemonade Metallic Frayed Trim Mule, £65
Matalan Stripe Cloche Hat, £8
Matalan Stripe Cloche Hat, £8 Matalan Stripe Cloche Hat, £8
Accessorize Olivia Straw Large Circle Bag, £44
Accessorize Olivia Straw Large Circle Bag, £44 Accessorize Olivia Straw Large Circle Bag, £44