Style.Devine: Why boho is your best friend this summer

“Give me a flowy dress with a denim jacket and Birkenstocks any day. . .” Boho style is a must for the summer wardrobe - along with a capsule of key staples you’ll reach for time and again - writes Cambridge-based stylist Maggie Devine

Summer is here and it's time to fully transition our wardrobes for the sunshine season. It's a moment we've all been waiting for — saying goodbye to big coats and layers! Whether you're going abroad or staying in the UK, this month's column will give you a few ideas for chic summer outfits and must-have trends.

Let’s start with a couple of staples that are surefire hits for summer. One has to be the white wide-leg trouser. This is a perfect go-to for summer. Whether you opt for denim or linen, you'll find so many ways to wear it. Wide-leg trousers are very flattering. However, if you are on the shorter side, opt for high-rise wide-leg. This will give you the illusion of longer legs.

Fit is everything when it comes to finding the right pair, so try a few brands on and do not get disheartened. I often find clients who try one pair of denim on and it doesn't fit, so they give up or continue wearing a style they aren't happy with. Do not settle, and do not give up.

If you opt for white denims, these are especially good for dressing up. Try them with a crocheted cream knit vest, or a black waistcoat for a more trendy style! A go-to is a crisp shirt with sneakers — the ultimate effortless, polished, off-duty look.

As the weather heats up, you may want to get a pair of white or tan linen trousers. The natural fabric of linen will be ideal for staying cool, and opt for a looser fit (also ideal for keeping cool). These outfits are great for any age and will create a timeless and polished look with minimal effort.

Now, as a stylist, it is my job to share the upcoming trends and push my clients out of their comfort zone to show them styles they would have never dreamt of wearing and show them how. However, it’s also part of my job to show my clients the outfits that will give them the highest return on investment — looks they can wear time and time again and know that it'll work.

For that, I always include a quality cotton black maxi dress as a staple, as this is a classic piece. It can be thrown over a bathing suit or worn with chic strappy sandals for a dinner alfresco. Pair that dress with a basket bag, a gorgeous floppy oversized sunhat, some black polished shades, and you have got yourself a look that is easy and chic.

Now, let’s talk about the overall genre of summer dressing: this month I’m going to do a deep dive on one of my favourite categories - boho chic! Give me a flowy dress with a denim jacket and Birkenstocks any day.

There is something about wildflower meadows, picnics by the river in Grantchester that evokes a whimsical summer feeling you never want to end. And that is how I feel about creating effortless beachy boho looks.

When creating these looks, I say opt for looser styles. A perfect look for summer is a tiered maxi skirt (go for a blue print or a print that is natural, not too busy), a cream cotton vest, and a cropped denim jacket or an open, long knit cardigan.

Another perfect option for attaining that effortless cool boho style is with drop-waist sundresses and floral maxi dresses, which luckily the stores will be packed with. Pairing a flowy maxi skirt or dress with a pair of cowboy boots is a look that will be particularly popular this season - cowboy chic is definitely having a moment!

Expert Advice:
As we approach hotter and hotter days, it can be difficult to shift your wardrobe and inject newness into styles you've had summer after summer after summer. Investing in a session with a personal stylist can jumpstart you, giving you the education, understanding and tools to shop better and more confidently for yourself. Not to mention a few gorgeous outfits to start wearing immediately. If you want to book a personal styling appointment, mini edits start at £90 and are a perfect way to dip your toe into working with a stylist.
For a complimentary consultation email maggie@styledevine.com
For more styling tips and outfit ideas, follow @style.devine