Grece Ghanem wearing a blue COS dress.
As life slowly returns to normal, pubs and restaurants reopen and international travel begins to look like an option again for some this year, I’m finding myself revisiting new-in sections with a newfound interest now that I am wearing more than just jogging bottoms. There are three high-street summer collections in particular that I’m really impressed with: Zara, & Other Stories and COS.
All of these summer collections have plenty of throw-on appeal, making them realistic for my working-from-home set-up and low-key summer plans. They also all have an elevated and timeless appeal, meaning they’ll last for summers to come. Hero pieces I have my eye on include a pink gathered-neckline midi dress from COS, a pair of bright-green trousers from & Other Stories and a blazer in a gorgeous hue from Zara.
Keep scrolling to see our edit of the best pieces from Zara, & Other Stories and COS.
It would be sinful not to invest in the matching trousers, too.
A perfect print solution if you’re not into florals.
Printed jeans are all the rage right now.
As are platform sandals.
This would look so pretty with a large-collared blouse underneath.
Love florals and checks? Combine them with this flounced dress.
Halter necks are officially back.
Zara’s embroidery department is exceptional this season.
This skirt looks so premium.
Who needs a holiday when you can swish around in this beauty?
Another excellent take on gathering from COS.
Yes, I do need another pair of gold hoops.
This knitted vest will be such a great layering piece come autumn.
COS rarely does skirts, but when it does, they’re great.
The best pair of trousers you’ll find on the high street right now.
I am still very tempted to invest in some clogs.
Say hello to the perfect wedding guest dress.
So chic.
I’ll take this whole outfit, please.
I never thought I’d be into tube dresses, but then I saw this one.
The brand releases this dress in a new color every so often, and I always find it hard to resist.
Did someone say lido?
A bag I’ll carry for years to come.
A very fresh take on the denim dress—just look at that collar.
In lieu of holiday-bought jewellery.
This blouse could easily pass as vintage.
COS’s paper-bag-waist trousers have a contender.
I love the unexpected maxi length of this shirt dress.
Oversized shirts are a must-have this summer.
Ripped jeans are stylish again, and & Other Stories has created the perfect pair.
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated. Next up, see our guide to the key trends for autumn 2021.