It’s fair to say there are plenty of good things to look forward to about summer. Jetting off on Mediterranean holidays, listening to a great band at your favourite festival, whiling away the weekends in your local pub garden with far too much rosé… I could go on. But one quite niche thing I always really look forward to, is embracing more colour in my wardrobe. In autumn/winter I’m all about those classic neutrals which are easy to layer. But in summer my inner extrovert comes out, and all I want to wear is printed shirts, bold dresses and bright swimwear. Yes, tonal whites, beiges and creams can look really chic in summer, but there’s just something really feel-good (not to mention flattering) about a bright colour against sunkissed skin.
In my expert opinion, when it comes to wearing colour in summer, anything goes. Wear your favourite shade from head to toe, or try out some expensive-looking combinations—you do you. But each year, by about this time, it becomes clear that there are certain pantones the fashion set (and subsequently the high street) are championing in particular for the season ahead. Take one scroll through the new-in sections of Arket, & Other Stories and H&M right now and it will become evident pretty quickly what these hero shades are.
From tomato red, to fresh orange and sea blue, it’s an explosion of juicy colour for 2022, alongside some buttery creams if you prefer to tone it down a little. Whether it’s an easy-to-style button-down shirt or statement accessory to add an accent to your look, or a bold dress for an instant happy outfit, keep scrolling to see and shop the six colour trends our favourite high street stores are backing this for this summer and beyond…
Think of the many shades of the mediterranean sea when it comes to buying blues this summer, and you’ll get it spot on. Whether you choose deeper or lighter shades, blue is a flattering colour on all skin tones and against all hair colours.
This is a great option for the office.e
This shirt is selling like hotcakes, which means it won’t be in stock for long.
The ruching and frills on this make it so pretty.
Alexa Chung wore a very similar flounce-trimmed dress recently. Get the look with this style for under £20.
This looks so easy, breezy and comfortable.
A personal favourite, this orangey-red is always striking, whether you opt for a pop with a simple sandal or a full-on maxi dress. It looks great with denim and tan leather accessories.
Halternecks are the next cult trend of the summer— you heard it here first.
This print looks so expensive.
How cute does this look with jeans?
I’m a fan of the subtle cut-outs on this dress.
I’d wear these with a simple jeans and white tank top outfit, but they’d also make a stylish statement with any of these red dresses.
Who needs that thirst-quenching fresh orange at your favourite hotel breakfast buffet when you can wear your vitamin c instead? Or you could always indulge in both. I plan on wearing the H&M maxi to all weddings I’m invited to for the foreseeable.
Great with just a pair of denim shorts or over a bikini.
I love the idea of wearing this to a wedding.
Such an easy throw-on style.
A great option for adding a pop of colour.
If you’re nervous of colour a bright tank is a great easy option.
If brights scare you— don’t fear. Buttery shades are coming through as well for this summer. Pair your off-whites with other tonal shades and timeless black accessories for an expensive-looking summer outfit.
I can’t believe this dress is high street.
Wear this with the matching trousers below or with jeans too.
I can guarantee you these will sell out in no time.
This is a staple you’ll wear for many years to come.
Cut outs are the biggest trend this summer.
Green has been the fashion person’s colour of choice when making a statement for a good few years now, and it doesn’t show any signs of dipping in popularity any time soon. It looks freshest against crisp white layers and straw accessories.
Comfy and stylish.
Make a statement with your swimwear too.
These are a great way to add colour into your workwear wardrobe, but they also look cute with jeans.
I love the detailing on this minidress.
The neckline and deep green of this top make it feel really elevated.
Not for shy and retiring types, wearing pink is a power play this summer. Nothing will make you feel more tropical on those balmy summer holiday evenings.
I’ve just added this to my basket.
Nineties inspiration is still going strong.
A great beach cover-up option you can also wear in the city.
How cute is this minidress?!
H&M wide leg trousers are like gold dust right now.
