Last Updated on 5 March, 2024
As a Londoner when it comes to fashion and lifestyle in the city, you see it all. For those are planning a trip to London, I’m thrilled to share my insider tips for those of you visiting our vibrant city for the first time this summer.
London’s unique blend of historic charm and cutting-edge fashion makes it a fascinating place to explore, and dressing the part can truly enhance your experience. Whether you’re brunching in Chelsea, picnicking in Hyde Park, or bar hopping in Shoreditch, I’ve got you covered with outfit ideas to make you feel like a local.
@jariatudanita /@ooliviamiller
- This breezy off-the-shoulder white blouse and distressed blue jeans ensemble is perfect for a relaxed coffee date in Notting Hill, complete with statement sunglasses and patterned sandals that add a pop of personality to a casual yet chic look.
- Stroll through the eclectic streets of Shoreditch in this effortlessly cool outfit, featuring a classic white shirt, light-wash jeans, and strappy white heels, accessorized with a trendy basket bag for a day of shopping and discovering hidden market gems.
Typical London Fashion And Street Style
London is a melting pot of styles, where traditional tailoring meets contemporary design. The city’s street style is renowned for its boldness and individuality, with locals mixing high street brands, vintage finds, and designer pieces in unique ways. If you want to find the best places for vintage, I have already shared posts on the best vintage shops in Shoreditch and Notting Hill.
Summer in London is an especially vibrant time for fashion, with an eclectic mix of light fabrics, playful patterns, and comfortable yet chic footwear to navigate the city streets. Embrace the Londoner’s knack for blending functionality with flair, and you’ll fit right in.
@queenhorsfall / @alysonhaley
- A summer day spent at Peggy Porschen’s promises sweet treats and sweeter outfits, like this pink ruffled top and skirt combo, accessorized with a classic pair of white sneakers for ultimate comfort and style.
- Channeling classic charm on the iconic Albert Bridge, pairing a casual denim jacket with a chic white mini skirt – ideal for a relaxed afternoon of exploring the historic Chelsea area.
15 Outfit Ideas for London in Summer
Below are some ideas for putting together some outfits for different occasions that you might have on your London itinerary. From brunching to exploring markets in London to gallery hopping.
Note: While some recommendations might spot some heeled shoes please note that we have posted tips on the best shoes to pack for London. Keep this in mind also as London is a walkable city so comfortable footwear is a must!
- For Brunch: A floral midi dress paired with wedge sandals. Accessorize with a crossbody bag for a touch of practical elegance.
- Exploring Parks: Opt for comfy linen shorts and a breathable blouse. Add a wide-brim hat and sneakers for a day under the sun.
- Visiting Theatres: Channel sophistication with a lightweight blazer and tailored trousers. Finish with loafers or ballet flats.
- Market Adventures: A high-waisted skirt with a tucked-in tee keeps you cool and casual. Slip-on shoes make it easy to wander.
- Walking Tours: Sport a pair of chic culottes with a simple top and a comfortable pair of walking shoes or sandals.
- Boat Cruises: Embrace nautical vibes with a striped shirt, chino shorts, and deck shoes. Don’t forget your sunglasses!
- Afternoon Tea: A pastel-colored sundress with a light cardigan captures the essence of English elegance.
- Bar Hopping: A jumpsuit paired with a lightweight leather jacket and heeled sandals is perfect for transitioning from day to night.
- Sightseeing: Combine a graphic tee with a denim skirt and a pair of comfy trainers. A backpack keeps all your essentials handy.
- Dinner Out: A silky camisole with high-waisted trousers and a pair of heels. Add a statement clutch for a touch of glam.
- Picnicking: Opt for a gingham dress and espadrilles for a quintessential summer look.
- Exploring Historical Sites: A casual shirt dress with a belt to cinch the waist, paired with comfortable flats.
- Attending a Festival: Layer a lightweight, boho maxi dress over a pair of sturdy boots. Perfect for those unpredictable grass terrains.
- Rooftop Drinks: A chic crop top and wide-leg trousers combo, accessorized with a chunky belt and wedge sandals.
- Taking in the Sights: A comfortable yet stylish maxi skirt with a knotted tee and sandals for a relaxed, tourist-friendly outfit.
London Summer Outfit Inspo
Charming floral dress for riverside explorations
- Flaunt this charming floral mini dress while you take in the stunning views of London’s skyline from a Thames River cruise; it’s perfect for those breezy, sun-kissed afternoons.
Grace the sophisticated streets In All-White
- Grace the sophisticated streets of Kensington in this pristine all-white look, featuring a sleeveless linen top and wide-leg trousers, accessorized with a straw tote bag – ideal for a chic afternoon tea or a classy art gallery visit.
Strikes the perfect balance of Smart Casual
@cocobeautea /@oamandthrive /@ooliviamiller
- Strikes the perfect balance for a relaxed coffee date in Covent Garden or exploring on the riverbank, pairing a ribbed tank top with cream-colored jeans, complete with a rattan clutch and open-toe sandals for a touch of summer ease.
- Embody the minimalist London style with this sleek outfit, perfect for a business lunch in the City: a crisp white halterneck top with tailored grey trousers, accessorized with black sandals and a statement basket-weave bag.
Floral off-shoulder perfect for Shopping in the Westend
- Embracing London’s eclectic vibe with a bold floral off-shoulder dress and sunny yellow slides – perfect for a summer stroll through the vibrant streets of Bond Street and Oxford Street.
Bold and beautiful linen pieces perfect for evening rooftop bar drinks
- Make a statement at a chic rooftop bar in the City with this striking pink linen pant suit, paired with a crisp white clutch and trendy sunglasses — where comfort meets high-end fashion.
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Explore the beautiful street of Notting Hill in this ensemble
- Strolling through the picturesque streets of Notting Hill, this blue floral playsuit accented with a creamy bow is your go-to for market browsing or a spontaneous photo shoot against the area’s colorful backdrops.
A touch of urban elegance…
- Embrace London’s urban elegance with this black off-the-shoulder top and wide-legged white trousers, ideal for a sophisticated evening at the Southbank Centre or a contemporary art show opening.
Embrace summer in the flowing dresses perfect for breezy summer days
@lydiacollins / @alysonhaley / @lydiacollins
- Embrace the summer in this flowy, red patterned midi dress, which makes for a comfortable yet stylish outfit as you laugh and twirl by the Southbank Centre, with the iconic London Eye in the background.
- Sport this playful striped dress paired with a denim jacket for your colorful Instagram shots in front of Notting Hill’s iconic pastel townhouses — a quintessential London summer look.
- This chic green mini dress, complemented by sneakers, strikes the perfect balance between tourist-ready comfort and fashion-forward flair for an adventurous day exploring the heart of London’s entertainment district.
A little summer sophistication…
- A fresh take on summer sophistication with a breezy blue shoulder cut-out top and wide-legged jeans, complemented by a plush white bag – a seamless look for a chic brunch in Notting Hill.
Enjoy afternoon tea at the Ritz in this ruffled number
This airy blue ruffled dress, accessorized with a pastel blue bag and golden heels, is your ultimate outfit for a dreamy afternoon tea at The Ritz or a romantic walk through the Kensington Palace Gardens.
Understated elegance in matching shorts and shirt sets
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- Ready for a sunlit stroll through the charming streets of Chelsea, this light blue matching short and shirt set with a cropped top and shorts, layered with an open shirt, creates a breezy, yet stylish ensemble perfect for a casual brunch or a visit to the Saatchi Gallery.
- Exuding understated elegance, this cream co-ord set is your go-to for a refined day out in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. The relaxed fit ensures comfort, while the monochrome palette speaks to London’s chic aesthetic.
- Sporting a classic London look, this oversized blue shirt paired with high-waisted cream shorts captures the essence of summer sophistication, ideal for a day of shopping in the eclectic boutiques of Marylebone.
- Striking the perfect balance between sporty and chic, this all-white ensemble with a tailored jacket and shorts, complemented by designer sneakers, is a versatile choice for exploring the vibrant streets of Camden Market or enjoying a casual rooftop gathering.
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Perfect for summer evening dining…
- Elegantly suited for an upscale dinner in Mayfair, this tailored cream romper paired with classic black heels and a structured handbag embodies chic sophistication for those balmy London evenings.
Perfect coffee date or causal business catch-up in the summer morning
- Perfect for a leisurely morning at a sunny café in Belgravia, this ensemble featuring a timeless striped tank, white high-waisted trousers, and a creamy blazer offers a nod to nautical vibes with a polished twist.
Shopping or summer festival ready!
@jariatudanita
- Add a pop of color to your London adventure with this bold floral blouse and frayed denim shorts, complemented by statement sunglasses and heels — a playful choice for exploring the eclectic markets of Camden.
- A stroll down Portobello Road calls for this effortlessly stylish combination of a crisp white blouse over a denim skirt, paired with strappy sandals and a sleek black bag, blending comfort with street-smart elegance.
Effortless chic perfect for shopping or gallery hopping
- A light and airy white oversized shirt paired with neutral tones and a pop of orange make for a modern yet effortless ensemble, ready for a day of shopping or gallery hopping in London’s trendy districts.
Stylish jumpsuit for easy exploring
- Posing by London’s iconic red telephone boxes, this olive green jumpsuit is the epitome of urban chic – perfect for a day of discovery from Covent Garden to the café corners of Soho.
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Summer Months in London And Things to Consider When Packing
- June: The start of summer can be mild, with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 21°C. Layers are key, as evenings can still be quite cool.
- July: Typically the warmest month, with temperatures between 14°C and 23°C. Light fabrics and sun protection are must-haves.
- August: Similar to July, but with more unpredictable rain showers. Include a compact umbrella and a waterproof jacket in your packing list.
London Summer Trip Packing List
I have shared a detailed list of things to pack for summer in London in a separate post
- Clothing: Mix and match pieces that can transition from day to night. Include lightweight dresses, comfortable trousers, shorts, blouses, and a couple of elegant options for evening outings.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, along with sandals and a pair of dressier shoes for nights out.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, a wide-brim hat, and a light scarf for cooler evenings. Don’t forget a versatile bag for day trips and a smaller, chic option for the evening.
- Outerwear: A lightweight jacket or cardigan for cooler days and evenings, plus a waterproof option.
- Miscellaneous: Sunscreen, a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, and a portable charger to keep your phone ready for photos.
Visiting London in the summer is an experience like no other, and with these fashion tips, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy everything the city has to offer in style and comfort. Remember, the key to London fashion is confidence and the ability
