The summer solstice marked the arrival of the new season, and in response, the temperatures are about to skyrocket. Right now, many of us are booking rooftop restaurants for the weekend, planning picnics in the park and adding fans to our Amazon basket (with a discount thanks to the Amazon Prime Day sale). Now, it’s time to figure out what we’re going to wear for the scorching hot days. Personally, I’m looking to Zara, H&M and COS to bring their innate elegance to warm-weather dressing, and make the stifling days exceedingly chic.
This year, my goal is to take on the heat with a serious dose of sophistication. Of course, I have a few trusted outfits I go to, but this year I want to take them to a whole new level. Whilst a tank top and cut-off shorts can do the trick, there are plenty of elegant outfits that are just as breezy, but feel much more put-together. And that’s where great summer staples come in.
Looking to our trust high street heroes, Zara, H&M, and COS have bolstered their summer offerings with a series of refined summer staples which make elegant dressing so easy, even on the hottest days. Light fabrics of cotton and linen bring an airy edge to all aspects of our wardrobes, allowing us to play with silhouette and proportion to make the hottest days both breezy and polished. The best thing about stocking up on summer staples is that they can be depended upon every single year. The airy linen trousers you buy for 2026 will hold their place for many years to come, just like the pretty dress you pair with simple sandals and a basket bag. As high temperatures are rare in this country, we all want to make the most of them, so forget scrolling for hours through the new-in sections. Instead, I’ve curated a refined edit of mix-and-match summer staples from Zara, H&M and COS that stylish people rely on every year to take on the heat. Now, scroll on to shop, and enjoy the sunshine!
Shop the 9 Chicest Zara, H&M and COS Summer Staples
This is genuinely one of the prettiest high street dresses I’ve seen in a while.
A breezy shirt will serve your wardrobe every single year.
I’ve tried these exact trousers on and can confirm they’re so chic and so breezy.
This summer-ready tote is at the top of my wish list.
This whole outfit can be copied and pasted this summer.
Sleek sandals will make any outfit a little more elevated.
This dress has flown out of stock so many times this season. Move fast, it’s back!
Pretty blouses are making my jeans, shorts, and skirts instantly chicer.
Longline shorts look so refined.
Shop More Chic Zara, H&M and COS Summer Buys
An easy throw-on style for the hottest days.
A simple tank top will work hard in your wardrobe.
Relaxed and comfortable.
Anouk wears this exact dress above.
This pretty top won’t stick around for long.
These are already in my basket.
This pretty dress will feel fresh every single summer.
The linen composition makes this a favourite in the warmer months.
This whole look is so good.
A classic design with a punchy shade.
So many of our editors have added this dress to their summer wardrobes.
Simple yet so effective.
The intricate Broderie anglaise is such a nice touch.
It doesn’t get more classic than linen shorts.
No one will believe this pretty top is from the high street.
Pair with simple tank tops, pretty blouses, loose silk tops and more.
The rich burgundy shade has all my attention.
It’s hard to believe this is a high street buy.
Just so pretty!
Take note of the intricate details on this skirt.
This matching set is on my mind.
I’m packing this for my next holiday.
A sleek top you can rely on every single year.
If you’re wearing jeans, make sure their light wash and a relaxed fit.
