From beach to bar…via the boardroom

Quality fabrics and elevated design details will transform summer basics into sophisticated separates, says Marie Kelly.

 In Ireland, we tend to romanticise summer the way we do Christmas; probably because, often, it lasts only as long. So just as December is licence to embrace sequins, feathers and bare flesh, for those few precious weeks mid-year when hot pavements not soupy skies are the norm, we feel released from traditional dress codes and free to channel any celebrity-approved, summer-themed trend, be that Barbicore or Cowboycore.

But against a sobering economic and political backdrop, the sartorial tide has taken a more pragmatic turn this summer, with ‘beach to boardroom to bar’ style resonating more resolutely with consumers than Beyoncé’s ten-gallon hats and studded leather chaps. A mix-and-match capsule wardrobe that allows us to seamlessly move from casual to dapper all in one day feels like a more mindful approach to summer style. And with climate change completing the hattrick of metaphorical dark clouds hanging over us, investing in pieces that will take you anywhere speaks to the growing number of shoppers looking for versatility, longevity and sustainability from their wardrobes.

Though this trend is born out of practicality and humility, there’s enough playfulness within it to match our sun-kissed-induced high spirits. Shorts, for instance – a foundational piece in any adaptable summer wardrobe – are inherently associated with childhood fun. They automatically infer an enthusiasm and energy for heading outside and getting stuck in. They’re uncumbersome and informal, but chosen in quality fabrics with elevated design details, they become smart enough to qualify as city chic, but without losing their laid-back insouciance.  

Stylist and creative director Jan Brierton advises always selecting a tailored style with button and fly-front. “Drawstring and elasticated waists look too laid-back for the office,” she explains. “Leave bright, high-impact palm and plant prints for weekends,” she adds, suggesting a “capsule palette of block colours, such as white, khaki and black, with just one accent colour.” She likes sustainable brand Icicle, explaining: “It uses ​​premium fabrics like silk in its menswear tailoring, giving it a luxury, but high-summer feel.” 

Against a sobering economic and political backdrop, the sartorial tide has taken a more pragmatic turn this summer, with ‘beach to boardroom to bar’ style resonating more resolutely with consumers than Beyoncé’s ten-gallon hats and studded leather chaps.

For anybody who considers showing their knees at work an affront, opt for a ‘jort’ instead – a longer-length short that sits just beneath the knee. For women, a black over-the-knee cycling short will work well paired with a sleeveless longline waistcoat – Cos is especially good for these. Brierton says an inch above the knee is as short as anyone should go for a beach to bar via the boardroom look. “Avoid styles with combat pockets and floaty, boho cuts – they won’t translate,” she says. “A clean, minimal silhouette is the key,” she explains.  

Denim is fine as long as it’s not distressed or ripped; indigo, grey or shades of ecru and eggshell are sophisticated choices, with the latter more modern than bright white. Look for pieces with smart detailing such as front pleats – Arket, The Frankie Shop and Mint Velvet all have great options. Then throw a blazer on top to ensure the look is chic not street. 

An obvious way to make shorts look convincingly smart is with a co-ord. Once perceived as fussy and a bit stuffy, co-ords are now the new black – effortlessly stylish and always a good idea. Brierton agrees that tailored separates in matching colourways look polished. “Simple styling tricks, such as buttoning down collars and rolling up sleeves will imbue the look with the required ‘holiday’ vibe when your working day is done.” 

She suggests Massimo Dutti for modern tailoring in great monochrome palettes. “Benetton also has some of the best pieces I’ve seen this season. Reasonably priced and in beautiful soft rayons – a breathable, moisture-absorbent fabric – they don't immediately scream holiday the way linen can. There’s also some great fluid tailoring in not-too-bright seasonal colours, meaning you’ll wear them again and again once summer rolls around, working midweek and relaxing at weekends.” 

It might sound sacrilegious to some, but socks with shorts is fine; in fact, it’s more than fine, it’s cool, as actor Paul Mescal demonstrated at the Gucci SS25 catwalk show in Milan in June. Just be discerning. The fabric, colour and length of your socks should be as considered and look as intentional as every other part of your outfit. Check out Pantherella and Falke for socks that will bring character and confidence to your look, and save the supermarket socks for winter.

Nothing says summer quite like raffia though. It has an off-duty sensibility that hits just the right relaxed summer vibe, but with a French Riviera glamour that will take you beyond the beach or park to meetings and mojitos. For a contemporary take on the traditional basket style, opt for a bag with a structured silhouette and elevated finishing touches. Cos’s Market Tote, with its oversized elegant fan shape and black leather trim, is perfect, while Rae Feather’s handheld Elizabeth basket is also a nice day-to-night option. A raffia bucket hat is also a great multi-occasion summer staple. Jacquemus has the ultimate luxury version, but H&M has some good-looking affordable alternatives.

Another multitasker, though one you may not have considered, is a swimsuit. If underwear can be outerwear, then surely swimwear qualifies as ready-to-wear? A one-piece made from a thick, supportive fabric and with a discreet neckline will certainly do double duty. I like the formality of a square neckline or the modesty of a halterneck beneath a blazer. Avoid sweetheart styles, which look too coquettish to be a serious workwear contender, and stick to neutral shades so that your swimwear looks just like any other hard-working wardrobe basic. 

The only finishing touch you need, Brierton says, is some gold jewellery. “Keep it understated for day, then layer up fine gold chains and pair them with hoop earrings for evening.”

This article originally appeared in The Irish Times Magazine, July 2024