A two-piece is such a lovely way to dress in the summer. There is something so chic about a matching skirt and top or shirt and trousers, as well as a suit. I recently went to Seville (for my 10 year wedding anniversary) and popped into the Spanish brand, Indi & Cold. I bought myself as a treat this skirt and top. I love that I can wear them separately too. The skirt looks great with an over-sized t-shirt like this one and the top is pretty with simple shorts - perfect for sight-seeing! Worn together however and the outfit is suitable for a party or as a guest to a wedding.

This top and skirt by Hush is a nice alternative example, as are these by Wiggy Kit. as mentioned above, I believe that most top and bottom sets could be dressed up for a wedding guest outfit. A silky shirt tucked into floaty culottes would be incredibly chic for example!

Here, mum is wearing a causal suit by Zenggi. There is something very cool about a casual suit on a woman. It’s comfortable too! I’m so sorry, since shooting this the suit has gone into the sale so the trousers have sold out and there are only a few jackets in size small left. However, as always, I like to help by suggesting different ideas in this blog, as much as suggesting where to buy new things. It may be that you have a lovely summer co-ord in your wardrobe that you haven’t thought to wear for a while. It’s also worth thinking about ways to update an old friend. Maybe the trousers or jacket could be tailored to look more contemporary, or could new shoes add a modern edge? Maybe try wearing a t-shirt rather than a blouse underneath it….or would sunglasses in the same colour as the two-piece work….?

We also paired mum’s top half with different trousers to demonstrate versatility. There is no point in having a jacket in your wardrobe that you can only wear one way. It is good to get as much wear out of your clothes as possible. I find it satisfying to see how different pieces look worn with different things. The blue of the denim culottes worn with the cream jacket is a very satisfying and fresh colour combination.

A shirt dress, as I am wearing here, is a staple for both mum and me in the summer. They’re throw-on-and-go pieces that keep you cool but not feeling too exposed on hotter days. No bronzed limbs required - phew!

This particular one is made from a lightweight linen which feels good. It is quite transparent though so for everyday wear, you might want a slip. It would be perfect as a cover up on the beach or by the pool!

N.B. Zenggi’s sizing comes up big so I would suggest sizing down.

There are a myriad of lovely shirt dresses out there from this one by MariMekko, to this one by Soeur, or this by COS or this dress by Gant. We always wear ours loose but if you like a bit more structure (it can look smarter too) then wearing a belt works really well.