The Guardian’s Jess Cartner-Morley curates 52 affordable summer wardrobe essentials
The fashion editor’s latest feature prioritises comfort and versatility, offering a curated list of footwear, clothing, and accessories for the modern summer.
The Guardian’s fashion editor, Jess Cartner-Morley, has published a comprehensive guide titled “Jess Cartner-Morley’s 52 women’s summer wardrobe updates for under £100”. Released on 15 May 2026, the feature curates affordable fashion and beauty items for women’s summer wardrobes, with all recommendations priced below £100. The article promotes a “simple, timeless” aesthetic inspired by icons such as Jane Birkin and Kate Moss, prioritising comfort, versatility, and minimalism.
The guide targets high-street shoppers looking to refresh their wardrobes without incurring designer costs. Cartner-Morley advocates for a philosophy of not overthinking style, drawing inspiration from Birkin’s undone simplicity and Moss’s clean, pared-back 1990s looks. The piece highlights specific styling tips and colour trends, such as cornflower blue and chocolate brown combinations, to help readers achieve a relaxed yet polished appearance.
Footwear recommendations span practical and elegant options suitable for both travel and leisure. The guide suggests Clarks crossover strap sandals in dark brown or black leather for their comfort and adjustability, as well as FitFlop Delicato style sandals that combine the ease of a trainer with the elegance of a ballet pump. For a more casual aesthetic, Adidas triple stripe sneakers with Liberty floral detailing are also included.
Clothing selections feature brands such as Massimo Dutti, Cos, Sézane, and Rejina Pyo. Key items include Massimo Dutti pleated trousers with elasticated waists for comfort, a bonded scuba swimsuit from Cos, and a short-sleeve knit from Sézane. The guide also highlights a gem dress from a John Lewis collaboration with Rejina Pyo, noting its versatility for transitioning from summer to autumn when paired with ankle boots.
Accessories and beauty essentials round out the selection, with suggestions from Tort and A Sinner In Pearls. Items include chunky square freshwater pearl signet rings, eco-resin hair claws, and evil-eye amulet jewellery. The article also touches on beauty staples such as foolproof contouring sticks and travel-size fragrances, ensuring the wardrobe updates are complemented by a cohesive personal style.