The Heat Is On: Wardrobe Essentials You’ll Want To Live In All Summer Long

Synth-pop hues on satin, the softness of lived-in tailoring, the head-turning extremes of maxi dresses, thigh-grazing shorts and mini skirts.

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There’s something festive about satin — several designers have explored the fabric recently as a joyful way to combine an iridescent texture more tactile than silk, in an assortment of candy-coloured brights. Inspired by Prada’s famously saturated satins, local labels such as Harris Tapper and Kate Sylvester have embraced the power of a brightly coloured satin fabric. Florence & Fortitude’s two-tone mix of red and pink on a double-breasted, structured coat is one knockout example.

Hot tip: Always wash satin with cold water, and avoid squeezing the fabric after a wash as it reduces its original shape and size. Florence & Fortitude made-to-order coat $1900. Vintage Jean Paul Gaultier heels, $220, from Tango.

The man who sold the world

Crisp cotton shirting is a failsafe option when it comes to summer workwear. Add plenty of personality with additional accessories for the perfect combination of formal and fashionable. Comme des Garçons shirt, $449, from Fabric. Vintage tie, $75, from Tango. Jessica McCormack carre-cut diamond cross earring, $9500, from Simon James.

The 60s through a 90s lens is a niche amalgamation of eras that surprisingly makes sense. Who can forget Lady Miss Kier’s wardrobe of trippy mini skirts and dresses when her band Deee-Lite hit the scene in 1990 with their hit single Groove Is in the Heart? Today, a similar style sentiment feels relevant as mini skirt options are available for all sizes and tastes. We love this fun check print skirt (in another key trend, satin) from London-based New Zealand designer Emilia Wickstead.

Hot tip: Keep the top half of a mini skirt fuss-free with a simple tank top or T-shirt. Emilia Wickstead skirt, $1040, from Simon James. Vintage beaded top (POA) from Love James. Silk & Steel earrings $89. Debbie Adamson silver rings from $300, and Barry Clarke silver and 18ct gold ring, $525, from Masterworks Gallery. Balenciaga heels $1490.

Dual power

From Jil Sander to Hermès, matching separates continue to make a convincing case for fuss-free dressing that makes you feel immediately pulled-together. Taking to the archives for ample inspiration, Zambesi’s Elisabeth Findlay has created the perfect pairing of a soothing grey set that plays on proportion with its jaunty crop jacket and voluminous trousers. Zambesi jacket $750 and trousers $575. Wynn Hamlyn top $395. Deadly Ponies clutch $599. Jimmy Choo ankle boots (POA).

Open season

In the height of summer, a little extra ventilation does wonders for formal occasions. Whether it’s professional workwear for the season or an outdoor wedding, we’re besotted by the range of fun short suits available right now. Menswear designer Dayne Johnston of Zambesi offers up relaxed tailoring in the form of this ochre blazer with matching shorts.

Hot tip: Try a smart sandal for the office when it comes to a matching short suit set. Zambesi blazer $650 and shorts $280. Camilla & Marc tank top $120. Maca Bernal necklace (POA). Jessica McCormack carre-cut diamond cross earring, $9500, from Simon James. Vintage Nike sneakers stylist’s own.

Soft boy summer

...Because in the heat of summer, a little sensuality goes a long way. While sheer silk organza has become a staple for womenswear, the delicate nature of the fabric offers a charming proposition for men, even better when teamed with something far more tactile and every day like a pair of classic jeans.

Hot tip: Handwash your organza and lay flat to dry — don’t hang. Zambesi shirt $620. Wynn Hamlyn jeans $395. Jessica McCormack carre-cut diamond cross earring, $9500, from Simon James. Vintage Bally loafers, $180, from Tango Vintage.

You spin me round

Big dress energy prevails once again for summer with free and floaty designs taking up space everywhere. From oversized kaftan-style frocks at Etro to the psychedelic print maxis at Valentino, big, bold dresses convey a sense of freedom and individuality. Designer Benjamin Alexander has created a great local example with a delicate print and ruffle-neck collar for added romanticism — poetry in motion.

Hot tip: A belt or tie is an easy way to create a silhouette with a cinched waist. Maxi dresses also need to be just the right length, so consider getting your dress hemmed if necessary. Benjamin Alexander dress $920. Vintage Cult Gaia belt, $180, from Tango. Mi Piaci flats $260.

Showtime synergy

Swimwear around the clock? Why not. Poolside to party in one fell swoop provides inspiration for a raft of designers creating versatile swimwear that can be easily layered. Simply add a playful skirt or jeans for daytime brunch; or prepare for a steamy cocktail party after five with stacks of jewels and an appropriate pair of dancing shoes.

Hot tip: Pack an easy skirt in your beach bag and a pair of heels for the perfect after-five look over a quick-drying swimsuit. If you’ve got a bikini on, try a loose shirt layered on top. Cos swimsuit POA. Jonathan Simkhai skirt, $739, from Fabric. Colombine fishnet tights, $19, from Farmers. Vintage mules, $120, from Tango. Maca Bernal bangles $200 each. The House of Va headpiece $160.

The big beat

Loose and relaxed trousers that nod to skater style are an ideal way to look chill over summer for every gender. Matched with an equally loose shirt, we love the utilitarian styling of this tonal ensemble.

Hot tip: A boxy shirt is a great pairing with a loose trouser, even better layered over a simple tank top and left undone. Thom Morison shirt $289. Acne trousers, $498, from Workshop. Wynn Hamlyn jumper $655. Stylist’s own shoes.

Natural wonder

Washed-out separates in soft, organic hues are a refreshing way to appear pulled together without looking too severe. Summer requires a relaxed approach to dressing — so look to fabrics that are soft to the touch, with a faded quality, whether linen or a cotton blazer.

Hot tip: Khaki trousers provide a great anchor to complementary tops and jackets in faded hues or even pastels. The surprising colour combination feels fresh and modern. Kuon blazer, $598, from Workshop. Crane Brothers shirt $345. Checks trousers $190. Object Dept. beaded necklace, $56, from Checks.

Take on me

When it comes to feeling festive, the allure of bold jewellery continues to inspire. Silverware has taken off again as jewellers explore the iridescent appeal of metals that shine and shimmer in the summer light. Love James jacket (POA). Gavin Hitchings sterling silver neckpiece, $3500, and brooch $1070, from Masterworks Gallery. Isabel Marant earrings, approx. $975.

Club tropicana

Whether it’s a loose-fitting cotton shirt or a seersucker dress, nothing says out-of-office quite like a colourful print.

Hot tip: A vay-cay print requires complementary accessories like a playful trinket necklace and a pair of simple sandals. Jed wears Crane Brothers shirt $345. Thom Morison shorts $219. Jessica McCormack earrings, $6560, from Simon James. Shoes stylist’s own.

Photographer / Mara Sommer. Fashion director / Dan Ahwa. Models / Yae Won Moon and Jed Munro from 62 Management. Makeup / Kiekie Stanners. Hair / Sophy Phillips. Photographer’s assistant / Josh Szeto. Fashion assistant / Annabel Dickson.