I’ll be the one to say it: The rain is killing the vibes. Our plans for tanned and tipsy tomfoolery this summer are well and truly dashed, with the British weather laughing right in our faces. Did we really dare to dream of bustling back garden BBQs and sunscreen-soaked trips to the seaside? In the UK at least, a soggy burger bun has become part and parcel of the summer 2023 deal.
Still, just because the weather can’t make up its mind doesn’t mean that we have to sit inside and declare summer officially over. The best way to trick yourself into getting out there and having all the seasonal fun you can think of is by dressing for the weather you want (albeit with a brolly in your bag).
To us, that means prairie skirts with biker boots, tent dresses with tennis shoes and waistcoats with wellies. Whatever you had planned to wear, it’s time to weatherproof it up and jump right back on your list of never-ending summer adventures.
To take a look at everything on Team R29’s wish list for August, click through the slideshow ahead…
Refinery29’s selection is purely editorial and independently chosen — we only feature items we love! As part of our business model we do work with affiliates; if you directly purchase something from a link on this article, we may earn a small amount of commission. Transparency is important to us at Refinery29, if you have any questions please reach out to us.
I’ll be the one to say it: The rain is killing the vibes. Our plans for tanned and tipsy tomfoolery this summer are well and truly dashed, with the British weather laughing right in our faces. Did we really dare to dream of bustling back garden BBQs and sunscreen-soaked trips to the seaside? In the UK at least, a soggy burger bun has become part and parcel of the summer 2023 deal.
Still, just because the weather can’t make up its mind doesn’t mean that we have to sit inside and declare summer officially over. The best way to trick yourself into getting out there and having all the seasonal fun you can think of is by dressing for the weather you want (albeit with a brolly in your bag).
To us, that means prairie skirts with biker boots, tent dresses with tennis shoes and waistcoats with wellies. Whatever you had planned to wear, it’s time to weatherproof it up and jump right back on your list of never-ending summer adventures.
To take a look at everything on Team R29’s wish list for August, click through the slideshow ahead…
Refinery29’s selection is purely editorial and independently chosen — we only feature items we love! As part of our business model we do work with affiliates; if you directly purchase something from a link on this article, we may earn a small amount of commission. Transparency is important to us at Refinery29, if you have any questions please reach out to us.
Esther Newman, Affiliate WriterIn homage of the one and only Jane Birkin.
Betsy & Floss Paros Basket Bag, $, available at Betsy & Floss
I used to have a super similar Fleetwood Mac tee from Free People, which I loved. It was good quality and the perfect oversized shape to be worn as a pyjama top or dress or to tuck into jeans. Said T-shirt has disappeared so I’m looking to replace it ASAP.
Free People Fleetwood Mac Rumors Tee, $, available at Free People
I’ve been obsessed with the idea of owning a tiger’s eye necklace since watching Practical Magic as a child (and making it my entire personality). This one from Alona feels cool and contemporary, tapping into the trend for big, chunky pendants.
Buttery soft and surprisingly springy, this eco-knit dress is the height of summer sophistication.
Ninety Percent Olympia Dress in Dark Sage, $, available at Ninety Percent
Kelly Washington, Social EditorThis summer, all I want is to look like a sexy bug. There, I said it. These Meller sunglasses are channelling ’90s Matrix vibes. The frame looks like it would suit my heart-shaped face and the blackout lenses will elevate any look, whether you’re heading to a festival or a lunch date. Add an updo for a snatched look and you really can’t go wrong. Plus they’re reasonably priced at £49.
A long-term sufferer of flat arches, this is the year I decided to look after my feet — so naturally it is the year I became a huge fan of FitFlop. I wore the Leather-Mix Walking Trainers to Glastonbury and can honestly say I’ve never been comfier at a festival. But it’s not just about comfort. These Luxe Leather Flatform Toe-Post Sandals are a popular dupe of The Row’s Ginza Leather and Suede Platform Flip Flops (and about a ninth of the price). Comfortable AND elegant — get yourself a pair that does both.
FitFlop Luxe Leather Flatform Toe-Post Sandals, $, available at FitFlop
French brand Rouje recently launched its first UK store, just in time for wedding season. If you’re prepared to pay a little bit more for something unique, its dresses should be your first port of call. I’m in love with the simplicity of this Bertille slip, which makes for an effortless look. It has adjustable straps too (a petite girl’s dream)! Fair warning though, the brand’s sizings are French, which means they can run small, so check the size guide or try on in store before you purchase.
Sadhbh O’Sullivan, Health & Living EditorI keep seeking and not finding scarves to wear in my hair. I think I’m particular in a way I didn’t realise. I’d rather find a vintage silk scarf than get one for the sake of it. When I saw this mustard beauty from Liberty in the ’50s, I realised it was exactly what I’d been looking for.
Liberty Vintage 50s Liberty Of London Printed Silk Scarf, $, available at Rokit
There is something about well made, multifunctional pieces that scratches a really satisfying itch for me. The cut, drape and wraparound button on this beautifully machine-knit shirt sell it for me.
Ply-knits Hathaway Soft Wrap Shirt, $, available at Ply-knits
I’m always looking for midi/maxi skirts that tread the line between tailored and relaxed and I’ve finally found it. I love everything about this Naya Rea piece: the cut, the fabric, the length. Perfect for summer picnics or layering into the colder months (or, let’s be real, right now).
Lauren Cunningham,Affiliate ContributorLe Specs has added a host of great styles to its sale, including this pretty pink pair. I’ve yet to buy into Barbiecore — maybe this could be a small start?
Le Specs Mountain High Ltd Edt, $, available at Le Specs
Obsessed is an understatement when it comes to these trousers. So far this year I’ve worn men’s boxers as shorts and PJ bottoms as trousers in search of the perfect stripe. At last, I might just have found it.
Damson Madder Hickory Striped Cargo, $, available at Damson Madder
I’m so desperate for a holiday that I currently spend my evenings scrolling through Lastminute.com. If I finally decide to fork out, best believe I’ll be going full-force with my wardrobe. This bikini is at the top of my wish list.
Reina Olga Marti Bikini Set, $, available at Reina Olga
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