Summer is truly upon us here in the Middle East, so easy-to-wear comfortable clothing and keep-me-cool fabrics is an absolute must!
As part of escaping the mighty power of the Sun here in the desert, like so many of us expats at this time of year, our Summer escape is just over a month away. We’re excitedly getting ready to jet off to Spain followed by a few weeks back in the UK, so I’ve been piecing together a Summer capsule wardrobe that’s perfect for the heat here in the middle east with essential pieces that can be mixed and matched around with wardrobe basics such as lightweight cotton tee’s for the daytime and lace trimmed cami’s for the evening. When we’re back in the UK I will hopefully be able to throw a lightweight jacket or cardigan over each look for the cooler English Summer days (except those days where only a rain mac and wellington boots will do).
The first thing you may notice about this collection is that it is predominantly from Zara, with only the basics and accessories from other high street stores and the whicker bag that came from an online boutique that I found on Instagram.
I just have to say here and now this is the first year that Zara has lured me in with their clothing to this extent. In previous years, with the exception of one or two pieces from the Spanish retailer, I would usually have a varied store-bought collection, but I’ll openly admit I’ve been completely hooked this season as Zara has really seemed to pull it out of the style bag!
Without further ado here are my Summer wardrobe essentials that will be sure to keep me going from the desert to sipping sangria in Spain and then onto hearty pub lunches in the English countryside!
The Maxi Skirt
Every year without fail I have a maxi skirt in my Summer wardrobe. It absolutely has to be high waisted which is perfect for skimming over mum tums and can be dressed up with a pair of block heels and cami top and dressed down with a basic tee and flat sandals. I love this Hawaiian print beauty from Zara.
(Edit) Zara advertises this skirt as a midi which stops somewhere above the ankles to mid shin. Yep, that’s how it’ll look on you if you happen to be 5’6 and above, but if you’re like me at a mere 5’2, I think it’s safe to class this skirt as a maxi!
The draw-string jumpsuit
Forget worrying about mummy tummy’s and expanding waistlines with all the extra holiday calories. The drawstring on this jumpsuit allows me to have my waistline to whatever is most comfortable. The easy loose fitting and cool fabric have made this one of my absolute favourites to wear! I sometimes like teaming mine with a tee underneath to change the look a little.
The Denim Skirt
Too hot for jeans but you still love denim? Of course, a denim skirt is always a winner in Summer. Dress it up or down it can be so versatile. I normally go for a classic dark blue but this year I went for a white skirt from Zara. I particularly like the hemline on this skirt as for me It’s not too short because as I get ever nearer to 35 (gulp) I feel as though I can’t pull off a mini skirt quite the same as I did in my 20s.
The Denim Shorts
Ok I realise I’ve just talked about hemlines not being too short and yes these are short, shorts. But I cannot go on holiday without a pair in my suitcase. For me, a pair of denim shorts is my go-to when all else fails. They are another essential that can be easily dressed up or down with heels, flats, tees, and camisoles. Luckily the cut of these shorts mean they cover my bum cheeks and feel VERY comfortable. Comfort is everything when I’m running after a toddler!
I LOVE this baby blue ruffle sleeve tee from H&M. It’s pretty basic but the ruffles make the outfit a little more interesting.
I always have a few pairs of flat sandals through the summer as it’s nice to change things around and I find they can wear out easily. Two pairs mean they should last longer! Of course, you can totally get away with one pair, that’s the beauty of a capsule wardrobe you add the staple pieces you like to wear. As for the heels I rarely wear them, but they just add a little bit of glam and height for a petite 5’2er like myself!
So there you have my Summer capsule wardrobe that I have basically been living in this season, now I can’t wait to wear it all on my jollies!
What are your favourite summer wardrobe staples?
Shop The Looks
I need to find myself some floaty maxi skirts like yours before I head to Dubai in July! Those sandals from Next look so comfortable too, you have great taste!
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Wow yes the floatier the better for July in Dubai! Yes they are comfortable, I try to do style with comfort these days with the kids. Thank you so much, have a great weekend ❤️
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