From stylish co-ords to summer dresses and everything in between, these are the Next pieces I’m coveting
I have two holidays coming up this year, so I have been busy buying lots of new summer clothes. One retailer I often overlook is Next, but it’s a treasure trove for fashion, which I recently (and gleefully) discovered.
Next has been busy releasing spring and summer pieces for the last few weeks, and thousands of new-in items are available on the website. Whether you’re going on holiday this year or staying in the UK, there’s something for everyone—be it floaty dresses, linen trousers, or co-ords.
Before I go through my top Next picks, it’s also worth mentioning summer collections from other retailers. One such store is M&S, which has been steadily dropping spring/summer pieces since February.
‘I compared Rimmel’s £8 lip butter to £23 Summer Fridays’
White Stuff’s summer collection includes a ‘comfortable, stretchy’ jumpsuit you’ll want to live in
I particularly like this Pointelle Tie Front Relaxed Cardigan (£338). I can wear it with shorts or trousers on holiday, or use as a beach cover up on lazy pool days – choose from small, medium, large and extra large sizes.
Elsewhere, Boden has also released a new spring drop with lots of new dresses available. For more dressy occasions, such as weddings, this polka dot linen midi dress is charming (sizes 6-22).
Gingham dress, £42
Yellow, particularly butter yellow, is all the rage this season. The bright and cheerful colour can be incorporated into your spring and summer wardrobe easily thanks to tops and dresses – ensuring you don’t have to spend a fortune to be on-trend.
Gingham is a print that comes back into fashion every summer, and this printed yellow maxi dress from Next hits all the right spots. The gingham bandeau midi dress is lovely to wear on hot summer days and holidays abroad, thanks to its floaty style.
For style suggestions, simply pair it with tan sandals and a rattan bag for a summer-ready look. It’s offered in sizes 8-24 in tall and regular lengths.
One drawback is that it is no longer available in petite lengths. Petite is typically for those 5ft4 and under, so if, like me, you’re slightly on the smaller side, this isn’t going to be for you.
It’s also available in lavender and monochrome colourways. Buy it here.
Gingham co-ord from £32
You can’t go wrong with a co-ord. They’re easy to throw on and look put together with minimal planning required.
This chic ecru and red two-piece comprises a short-sleeved shirt and relaxed wide-leg trousers. The model pairs the set with black sandals and a matching bag.
The pieces are sold separately. The shirt is £32, and the trousers are £34. However, the shirt has a single-button fastening, which could be off-putting for some shoppers who are uncomfortable exposing their midriff. Again, the trousers aren’t offered in petite either.
Buy the trousers here, and the shirt here.
Elevated vest, £35
Add a little something extra to your wardrobe with this elevated vest. It has a stunning stud detail down the centre and a low v-neckline.
The model pairs it with a chunky gold bangle and white, wide-leg trousers. It’s also available in a range of other prints, including animal print and floral, as well as plain white or black options.
You can also pair it with denim shorts or a skirt. Thanks to its design, it can easily be dressed up or down for any summer or spring occasion this year.
One downside is that the vest has a loose, boxy shape. As it is made from stretchy material, you’re not going to get a sculpted or figure-hugging fit. It’s also quite a long top, as seen on the model, who tucks it into her trousers.
This might not be a good option for fashion fans hoping to find a fitted top, or those looking for something shorter in length.
Buy it here.
Weave Mary Jane shoes, £36
Swap your usual trainers for a pair of Mary Jane shoes this summer. I have been reluctant to get onto the ballet flat trend, but I am beginning to come around, thanks to the woven styles.
I plan on wearing these with straight-leg blue jeans and a white T-shirt combo for casual summer looks when I want to look stylish but with minimal effort. They come in two colours, including a natural and baby blue.
Be warned, however, that these shoes are not wide-fit and that there is no wide-fit option available. As they’re made from woven material, they’ll have little stretch compared to trainers or sandals. So, if you usually opt for wide-fit shoes, these may feel restrictive.
However, half sizes are available, which may be a good option for those who want a bit of ‘give’. Choose from sizes 3.5 to eight. Buy here.
Striped linen co-ord, from £28
Another co-ord, but this time with a neutral colourway. This white and green striped set has an effortless Parisian feel.
The relaxed fit of the trousers gives it a ‘not trying too hard’ vibe, but the waistcoat is super stylish and elevates the set. Of course, the pieces can be worn separately or together.
The button-down waistcoat that comes in sizes 6-24 is £28 (sizes 16 and 18 are currently out of stock), and the trousers are £32, with regular and tall lengths available in various sizes.
The set has garnered a string of reviews, with one commenting on the trousers: “Fits perfectly comfortable.” However, another wasn’t as happy, writing: “Too long.”
A third buyer bought the set, commenting: “Great outfit. Lovely material. Great value. Bought with the trousers to go with it.”
You can buy the waistcoat here, and the trousers here.
