Delft / blue & white

A classic that never really dates

Blue and white has a heritage feel that never really dates, and this season it's showing up in coastal, hand-drawn motifs like sardines and scallop shells as much as traditional florals. It's the kind of print that reads as classic rather than trend-chasing.

Printed button-up top

Wear it buttoned over white jeans for an easy, breezy look, or tuck it into a plain skirt for something smarter. Shop at Zara

Floral

Two moods, both worth knowing

Soft, romantic florals are having a real moment this season, and they're showing up in two very different moods. Both are worth knowing about, depending on the occasion.

Viscose-blend maxi

Deep V-neck, voluminous balloon sleeves. Effortless, add sandals and a cross-body bag and you're done. Shop at Superbalist

Short-sleeved shirt dress

Collared and belted, just as easy dressed up with heels as it is dressed down with flats. Shop at Superbalist

Polka dot

Back in a big way

The polka dot is a genuine classic, and this summer it's everywhere again, from the runways to the high street. Small, closely spaced dots feel elegant and timeless, while bigger, bolder dots bring a playful, retro energy.

Barrel-leg trousers

Cream with fine navy dots, relaxed through the leg and easy to dress up or down. Shop at Zara

Midi with shoulder pads

A genuine statement piece, needs almost no styling beyond a good heel. Shop at Zara

Stripes

Stretching in two directions at once

Stripes are always in rotation, but this season they're stretching in two directions at once: soft, sheer, sunset-toned co-ords for warm evenings, and bold multi-colour trousers for daytime energy.

ZW Collection co-ord

Warm olive and khaki tones, lightweight enough for a summer evening and easy to wear as separates. Shop at Zara

Multi-colour mom-fit

Brown, teal, blue and cream running through the leg. Let them be the statement and keep the rest simple. Shop at Zara