Health, Beauty and Lifestyle with Denise McNamara

We may not have the chance to get much wear out of our summer wardrobe yet – I still have not reverted to daily sandals – but we can live in hope the weather picks up now July has hit. The shops are awash with light gear, which they will soon have to start discounting if the temperatures don’t pick up. If you are still hoping to pick up a few bits for holidays – or for a staycation – here are the biggest trends to look out for Summer ’24.

Is it the global obsession with Taylor Swift that has the designers championing a country & western look this season as she did after all start out in Nashville and many of greatest hits have a decidedly country feel.

Many of the dresses and tops have a prairie feel, with suede, crochet and fringed waistcoats are a real feature. Cowboy boots under long, frilly and floral dresses are having a moment, replacing the very prevalent biker look of the last few years.

White long dresses with oversized ruffles and floral motifs were to be seen across all the catwalks for the Spring Summer 24 collections in Milan, New York and Paris, which have been borrowed enthusiastically on the High Street.

They are easy to wear, as you can pair them with a denim jacket and large belt to dress them down.

White is again a particular favourite if you are in the market for a suit – the jacket and loose trouser combo which is not going away is a great option for a summer wedding or party.

A lot of the designers are returning to an understated luxury look in their collections and white, beige, cream are a strong element in their offerings.

While logos are no longer used as statements of social status, minimalistic pieces in mute colours and patterns are evidence of this so-called ‘rich look’ which is all over TikTok.