The Sunday List

Summer basics that will do a whole lotta good in your wardrobe.

Apr 20, 2025

Happy Easter Sunday! Whether you're tucking into chocolate eggs or just enjoying a slow and peaceful Sunday, I hope you're having a lovely one.

Lately, I’ve been in full spring-cleaning mode - specifically, tackling that wardrobe clear-out I’ve been putting off for ages. And in doing so, I realised I’m missing quite a few key pieces - especially those everyday basics that make getting dressed in the warmer months so much easier. You know the ones: the classic white tee, perfect-fitting jeans, a good stripe shirt, and breezy linen trousers. Timeless staples that work hard, year after year.

So for this week’s Sunday List, I’ve pulled together a few brilliant finds in case you’re also eyeing up a seasonal refresh. Trust me, these are the kind of pieces you'll reach for on repeat.

Let’s kick things off with the essentials - fitted T-shirts.

A fitted tee is one of those wardrobe heroes: simple, reliable, endlessly wearable. Whether you layer it, tuck it, or wear it solo, it’s the building block of so many outfits. Everyone should have a few in rotation - and in more than just white!

Fitted tee, £9.50. Stripe tee, £6.99. Lace trim tee, £9.99. Ribbed tee, £32. Black scoop neck, £80

Loose T-Shirts

While a fitted tee is great for a more polished look, a loose-fit T-shirt is the ultimate laid-back essential. It brings that effortless, throw-on-and-go vibe we all love when the weather warms up.

Perfect with denim shorts on a sunny day, casually worn over a satin skirt for that high-low mix, half-tucked into tailored trousers, or even chucked over your swimsuit as a beach cover-up - it's one of those pieces that just works with everything. Super versatile, super comfy, and very necessary.

Grey t-shirt, £19.90. Navy tee, £38. White tee, £30. Grey v-neck, £17

Vest top

An absolute staple in my wardrobe - vest tops are one of those unsung heroes I reach for all year round. Whether layered under cardis, blazers or lightweight knits, or worn solo on sunnier days, they’re endlessly useful and always in rotation.

One of my top picks? The Uniqlo vest tops with built-in bras (£19.90). Genuinely such a game-changer. My daughter’s obsessed with hers too - no faffing about with uncomfortable bras or visible straps, just easy, comfy support. Plus, they come in loads of different styles - think halter necks, camisoles, tank tops and even cropped versions - so you can find the perfect one for whatever look you’re going for.

Boat neck top, £22. White rib tank, £17. Bra tank, £19.90. Double layer tank, £26. Light compression rib tank, £49

Linen Shirts

Summer and linen go hand in hand - and a good linen shirt is an absolute must-have once the temperatures start creeping up. It’s one of those pieces that manages to feel effortlessly cool while still being practical (a rare combo, right?).

Throw it over a swimsuit for a breezy beach look, layer it with denim for city days, or wear it buttoned up with linen trousers for that relaxed, just-back-from-holiday feel. Light, breathable and timeless - linen shirts are the kind of item you’ll wonder how you ever lived without.

Navy shirt, £55. Blue linen shirt, £120. Beige shirt, £27.99. Yellow shirts & shorts set, £215. White linen, £39.90

Linen Trousers

Just like the shirt, linen trousers are a warm-weather winner. They instantly give that relaxed, effortless vibe - whether you're at home pottering about or heading off somewhere sunny.

When the heat’s on, comfort becomes key, and linen really comes into its own. It’s breathable, lightweight, and helps regulate your body temperature, meaning you stay cool without compromising on style. Pair them with a simple tee or a vest top, add some sandals, and you’re good to go. Easy, breezy, and endlessly wearable.

Navy wide leg, £95. Black linen trousers, £87. White linen, £39.99. Blue drawstring, £19.90. White drawstring, £275

Stripe Shirts

A stripe shirt is one of those classic basics that earns its keep all year round - it’s definitely not just for summer. Whether you're dressing for work or throwing something on for a casual weekend, a stripe shirt adds that little bit of polish with zero effort.

It’s the kind of piece that instantly elevates even the simplest outfit - think jeans and trainers, or layered over a vest with wide-leg trousers. Smart, relaxed, timeless… a true wardrobe all-rounder you’ll reach for again and again.

Blue stripe, £95. Blue striped shirt, £85. Tomboy shirt, £ 85. Big stripes, £37.99. Navy striped, £49.50

Satin Slip Dresses

Satin slip dresses are having a bit of a moment - thank you, The Row - and honestly, I’m all in. There’s something so effortlessly chic about a satin slip, especially with those little lace details. It’s feminine without being fussy, and surprisingly versatile.

This is one of those pieces that easily works from day to night, and from summer straight into winter. Wear it solo with sandals on warm evenings, layer it over jeans for a more casual, 90s-inspired vibe, or throw a chunky knit on top when the weather cools. It’s the definition of easy elegance.

Black handkerchief hem midi dress, £149. Cream dress, £420. Asymmetric dress, £15. Black chemise, £198. Black with white lace, £22.99. Green dress, £160. Beige midi dress, £119

Summer Knits

Ah, the great British summer - where a sunny morning can turn into a breezy afternoon faster than you can say "do I need a jacket?" That’s why summer knitwear is just as essential as your winter woollies, only lighter, airier, and way more layer-friendly.

Think breathable fabrics, looser weaves, and styles that you can throw over a vest or slip dress when the temperature dips. Whether it’s a fine-knit jumper, a cotton cardigan or a sleeveless knit, these pieces are perfect for unpredictable weather without weighing you down. Practical, yes, but still stylish.

Sleeveless knit, £244.30. White v-neck, £69.95. Brown linen cardigan, £85. Pointelle white cardigan, £37. Grey v-neck merino wool, £75. Beige merino cardigan, £67

Swimsuits

I recently jetted off to Lanzarote with my daughter, hoping for some sunshine... but of course, in true holiday fashion, we arrived just in time for flash floods and a week of cloud. Typical, right? Still, trusty swimwear is always a must, whether you're braving a chilly pool dip or just dreaming of sunnier days ahead.

I’m a big fan of Hunza G, their one-size-fits-all designs are flattering, comfy, and feel a bit luxe. But there are so many brilliant options out there now, whether you’re after something sporty, minimalist, or a bit more glam. A good swimsuit really does make you feel that little bit more put-together, even if the weather has other ideas.

Tummy control, £29.50. Long sleeve top, £24.99. Bottoms, £12.99. Plunge green swimsuit, £35. Blue twist front (two lengths), £76. Hunza G (one size fits all), £185.. Black halter neck (two lengths), £66. Form & Fold swimsuit, £215 (goes up to a 42E)

Shorts

I love shorts, but let’s be honest, the teeny tiny kind? Not really my vibe. If I wasn’t quite so self-conscious about my legs, I’d probably live in them, but for now, I’ll happily stick to styles that offer a little more length (and a lot more comfort).

Enter the longer-line short, or the classic Bermuda short—now that’s more like it. Flattering, chic, and so easy to style, they strike the perfect balance between relaxed and refined. Whether paired with a vest and sandals or dressed up with a shirt and blazer, they’re my go-to when I want to feel pulled together without baring it all.

Beige long shorts, £290. Cream shorts, £78. Posse white linen, £210. Black stripe shorts, £93. White wide shorts, £135. Beige shorts, £47. Black longline, £85. Skims stripe, £45. Black denim drawstring, £311

Soft Trench

This season, the classic trench takes on a softer, more fluid silhouette, and I’m absolutely here for it. Forget the stiff, structured style; think drapey, elegant, and full of movement.

A soft trench adds an effortless chic vibe to any outfit, giving your look that beautiful flow and ease. It’s perfect for layering over everything from casual tees to evening dresses, adding just the right amount of polish without feeling too formal. A timeless piece that still feels fresh and modern.

Beige trench, £149. Long voluminous trench, £349. Light cotton trench, £229. Green coat, £155. Short trench, £149

Denim

This season, denim is all about relaxed silhouettes and laid-back styling. My all-time favourite jeans are the Tibi Sid ones, though, sadly, they don’t seem to be available in the UK at the moment. However, I've included them for any readers across the pond in the US. I'm still all about barrel-shaped jeans and cropped straight legs, as well as those more fluid, easygoing shapes. And of course, a classic denim jacket is always a wardrobe essential!

Barrel jeans, £90. White denim, £85. Tibi jeans, $495. Straight 90s jeans, £310. Wide jeans, £34.90. Jumpsuit, £160. Denim jacket, £105

Shirt dress

The timeless shirt dress is a summer staple that never fails to make an appearance in my wardrobe. It's the perfect throw-on piece, effortlessly versatile enough to wear poolside or for a quick trip to Sainsbury's. Whether you're lounging in the sun or running errands, it's the ideal blend of comfort and style.

Striped mini dress, £240. Pink printed dress, £115. Blue stripe mini dress, £97. White shirt dress, £350. Lilac shirt dress, £95. Twist front dress, £423. Orange dress, £49.99. Stripe shirt dress, £150.

Sheer

The sheer trend shows no signs of fading, and it's such a beautiful, feminine way to bring something fresh to your outfit. I love experimenting with layering sheer pieces, like pairing a sheer skirt over wide-leg trousers or layering a delicate sheer shirt over a bold, contrasting vest. It's the perfect way to add depth and interest, while still keeping things light and effortlessly chic.

Pleated skirt, £167.40. Brown sheer shirt, £27.99. Silk organza shirt, £89. Semi sheer white skirt, £35.99. Silk organza top, £245. Sheer pleated skirt, £37.99. Sheer embellished skirt, £34.99. Matching top, £17.99

Summer bags

A great summer bag is the perfect, effortless way to refresh your warm-weather wardrobe. I love this leather and raffia design. It has a beautiful pouch lining and the most flattering shape. I also love using bags to add a pop of colour to an outfit. And if you’re a fan of the sheer trend but feel hesitant about fully committing, this mesh bag is an ideal way to incorporate the look in a more subtle, stylish way.

Brown leather & rattan bag, £382. Raffia tote, £125. Becksondergaard, £59. Mesh tote, £57. Canvas and leather, £87. Cos raffia bag, £135

Yellow flip-flops, £34. Snake sandals, £160. Sandals with ring detail, £119. Red sandals, £471. Red strappy sandals, £129. Jelly fisherman, £110. Brown suede, £170. Satin slides, £19.99. Pool leather sandals, £235. Snake sandals, £32.99. Wedge sandals, £159.

And that’s a wrap on my summer basics list! Now, I’ll admit, pieces like a sheer shirt or a satin slip dress might not technically be “essentials,” but they’re perfect for adding a stylish, trendy twist to your summer wardrobe. Plus, with both trends set to carry us through into the winter months, you’ll be able to wear them all year round.

Wishing you all a wonderful Easter bank holiday, enjoy every moment!

See you next week,

Anna x