Editor’s Picks

Want to dress like a Fashion Editor? Who doesn’t? These sartorial elite hold the coveted key to unlocking supreme style, and are experts in decoding the need-to-know trends for the seasons ahead. Each month, we’re inviting an industry-leading Editor to take over the blog and talk us through the RI picks they’re adding to basket. Kicking off the series is Glamour’s Charlie Teather, whose personal style is, as would expect, nothing short of impeccable. Take it away Charlie ...

If 2020 was the year of staying indoors, 2021 is so far proving to be the year of socialising outside – whatever the weather. Thankfully, and better late than never, the British sunshine has finally caught up with our mood, and after a year spent wearing nothing but our cosiest loungewear it has provided us with the perfect excuse to stock up on some summer staples worthy of our long-awaited re-entry into society. River Island’s new Studio collection couldn’t have dropped at a better time, bursting with everything your renewed fashion appetite desires right now; from bang-on-trend voluminous summer dresses to timeless seasonal suiting and statement tie-dye sets that are perfect for those of us who failed to master that particular lockdown activity. Oh, and I couldn’t resist adding some seriously epic loungewear to my edit… ‘old habits’, and all that.

If you know me, you likely know my unwavering loyalty to a voluminous dress. Never not appropriate, this lilac midi is already proving to be my go-to for the summer. Perfect to throw on with a chunky flat sandal for a BBQ with friends, with white sneakers for a weekend in the park or a strappy heeled sandal for an evening event. It’s one of those forever pieces to pack in your case regardless of your destination – safe in the knowledge that there’ll always be an occasion for it.

The Post-Lockdown Loungewear

What did I say about old habits? While there may have been a point over the last few months that I swore I never wanted to see an elasticated waist ever again, one day in those pre-lockdown jeans was enough to prove otherwise. Now that I’m a lifelong loungewear enthusiast I’ve been looking for ways to up my game for summer, and this shorts set has well truly satisfied that craving. Just as cosy as it looks while being elevated enough – thanks to its crisp white hue and super chic branding – to be a very viable option outside of your own four walls, it works particularly well paired with the matching tube socks for full athleisure impact. I’m nothing if not devoted to a full look.

The Trending Tote

Having been a loyal member of the SBS (Small Bag Society) for as long as I can remember, an imminent return to the office after over a year working from home has finally brought a dose of reality; why not carry just the one bag that fits everything in? Green is set to be one of the hottest colours this season, so when I spied this canvas tote – which is plenty big enough to carry a laptop plus all those countless unnecessary necessities, it was a no brainer. If anything was going to persuade you that there’s an upside to commuting again then it’s this. It’s also very post-gym Princess Di when worn with the white sweat set, which is the aesthetic most of us have been desperately aiming to emulate over the last year.

The Perfect White Tee

A staple for a reason, there aren’t many occasions in life for which a white t-shirt wouldn’t work. But while my personal repertoire has previously favoured a boxy crew-neck, this season I’ve been after something a little more light-weight and feminine. This deep-V tee is perfect paired with the Studio suit, as it mimics the relaxed silhouette and provides a more casual take on tailoring that’s perfect for summer. It also makes way for all manner of necklace layering, rendering it the perfect piece to pair with all your favourite denim for a super simple off-duty look.