WHAT TO WEAR THIS WEEKEND

BRODERIE ANGLAISE

A LACY SUMMER STAPLE

Broderie what? said my brotherinlaw, when I mentioned this outfit. It’s just a fancy way of saying cut- out, lacy detail, but give it a French spin and it sounds infinitely more chic. However you say it, this week’s trend is a pretty perennial. It’s been around since the 19th Century, but that hasn’t stopped fashion’s love affair with it reigniting every summer. Usually we would have seen plenty at Wimbledon, but the look is perfect for dinners a deux, too.

ELEGANCE WITH AN EDGE

I Wore this relaxed-fit dress for my first post-lockdown restaurant visit and it lends itself well to the unreliable British summer. Sitting outdoors, I was grateful for the heavier cotton, which, unlike flimsy silk, won’t leave you shivering. on the other hand, the holes are ideal ventilation if the sun does shine. It’s also elegant for evenings, the detailing giving it an interesting edge, while during the day you can dress it down with canvas trainers. (I’m addicted to ones with a leglengthening platform, try the espadrille flatform from Superga, £65.)

KATE IS A FAN, TOO

IF WHITE is impractical (I noticed too late I had sat on my daughter’s purple felt-tip pen), pick another colour you feel more comfortable in such as the dusky peach from Claudie Pierlot ( below). Similarly if a dress feels too much of an overall ‘look’, opt for a shirt like the Duchess of Cambridge, who wore hers from MiH for a recent Zoom. even a collar with this detailing makes an everyday item feel special.

FAR FROM FAST FASHION

Be MINDFUL that there is more work involved in embroidery and the price may reflect this. Far better to save for something that’s had time taken over its production, safe in the knowledge this trend is the opposite of throwaway fashion.