Western Mail

It’s only natural

Mix natural fabrics and subdued hues for a look that’s easy, breezy and chic,

- says LAURA TOWNSEND

IT’S everything you could want in a summer look: Neutral colours offering oodles of mix-andmatch potential, and a laid-back style to take you comfortabl­y from a day in the office to a rooftop terrace under the sun.

The ‘au naturel’ trend combines floaty, natural fabrics with soft silhouette­s and a muted colour palette, so you can ooze sophistica­tion with minimal effort required.

And let’s be honest, while we’d all love to look Instagram-ready at all times, immaculate­ly preened and ready to take on the world from our sun loungers, in reality, that’s not always possible.

Stripped back, fuss-free and with a bare face to match, if you’ve been looking for a way to put a bit less effort into your wardrobe (a radical idea, we know) then perhaps this trend is just what you need.

The only rules? Stick to a pale palette of white, cream, grey, beige or khaki. Keep accessorie­s minimal – the basket bag is still ruling Instagram as summer’s top choice of arm candy – and when it comes to footwear, try styles in raffia or wicker, like a fail-safe espadrille.

Here’s what you’ll need to get started...

SOFT SEPARATES

THESE easy-to-wear pieces in chalky colours can be mixed and matched, so anchor your ‘au naturel’ look around them.

SUBTLE STRIPES

SOFTENED stripes nod to the nautical theme without going (ahem) overboard, while lightweigh­t fabrics will keep you cool on balmy summer nights – a minidress or jumpsuit is perfect whether you’re packing for a beach trip or city getaway.

ORGANIC ACCESSORIE­S

FINISH off your look with tonal accessorie­s – a straw bag and sandals are a must.

For after-dark glam, tortoisesh­ell and gold jewellery adds a polished edge.

 ??  ?? Next gold tone geometric wood effect drop earrings, £8.50
V by Very paperbag wrap midi skirt, £32, Very.co.uk Monsoon Rita linen embroidere­d sleeveless top, £39 Dune lemonade metallic colourful frayed trim mule, £65 M&Co belted linen blend herringbon­e...
Next gold tone geometric wood effect drop earrings, £8.50 V by Very paperbag wrap midi skirt, £32, Very.co.uk Monsoon Rita linen embroidere­d sleeveless top, £39 Dune lemonade metallic colourful frayed trim mule, £65 M&Co belted linen blend herringbon­e...

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