The Guardian’s Jess Cartner-Morley curates June’s affordable summer essentials
With weddings and Wimbledon on the horizon, Cartner-Morley highlights knee-length shorts, Pucci-inspired swimwear, and under-the-radar brands for a polished warm-weather wardrobe.
Fashion journalist Jess Cartner-Morley has released her monthly style edit for June 2026, offering a curated selection of summer wardrobe updates designed for the season’s high-profile social calendar. Published in The Guardian, the guide addresses the practical needs of attendees at weddings and Wimbledon, following a May heatwave that exposed gaps in many seasonal wardrobes. The edit focuses on accessible pricing, with a broader collection of 52 women’s summer wardrobe updates available for under £100.
Central to the June selection is a shift towards more mature silhouettes, specifically knee-length shorts described as having an elegant, grown-up polish. Cartner-Morley suggests these can be dressed up with a silk tank and mules for evening occasions or kept casual with a T-shirt. The article also champions capri pants and pale crochet tops, noting that the latter offers a timeless summery aesthetic that balances exposure with sophistication.
Swimwear recommendations lean into retro aesthetics, with Cartner-Morley highlighting Pucci-inspired bikini bottoms featuring the brand’s trademark swirls. While noting that some sizes may be sold out, she points out that the bottoms are available for under £10, with a matching top priced at £14, allowing for mix-and-match styling with plain swimwear. The commentary also addresses footwear, advocating for sandals with diagonal straps over horizontal ones to create a more flattering leg line.
The edit spotlights several independent and emerging brands alongside established names. Rewritten, a London-based label, is recommended for its durable satin bridesmaid dresses, while Marks & Spencer is credited for an unexpected crochet top discovery. For athleisure, the California brand Alo is noted for its elevated weekend wear, and French label Maje is highlighted for trousers designed in collaboration with stylist Blanca Miró that evoke an Amalfi Coast vibe.
Homeware and accessories also feature in the style assessment. Cartner-Morley points to Westwing, a Munich-based homeware brand recently launched in the UK, for its chic marble bowls. For bags, she recommends wooden-bead accessories that offer a neutral tone suitable for various outfits. The overall direction of the June edit emphasises versatility, encouraging readers to invest in pieces that transition seamlessly from day to night while maintaining a chic, understated presence.