This post is made possible by Universal Store.

The start of every new season is always the same. I open my wardrobe and wonder what one earth I wore last year!

Despite the urge to toss everything out and start from scratch, I’ve teamed up with Universal Store to share six key pieces that I think will slot seamlessly into your current repertoire and instantly update your wardrobe for summer.

The Midi Skirt

Fashion is always flirting with different skirt lengths, and this season it’s all about the midi-skirt. By exposing the slimmest part of the leg, this style is ultra flattering and chic.

One word of warning though – unless you’re a genetically blessed supermodel, midi skirts need to be styled with heels. Flats and midis are not friends! It also pays to choose thin strappy heels or a classic pump so that the top of your foot is exposed. This will lengthen the appearance of your leg….and who doesn’t want longer looking pins?!

Get the Look // Luck & Trouble Dainty Skirt // Luck & Trouble Peachy Skirt

The Boyfriend Jeans

It’s time to swap out your skinnies in favour of oversized jeans that are ripped and faded.

With its slouchy silhouette and distressed detailing, this borrowed-from-the-boys style is effortless. While the looser cut may come off as a bit casual, team them with sky-high stilettos and a blazer for instant polish. And the perfect finishing touch? Just half roll the cuffs so you can see your ankles but the look is still undone. To show you how to cuff like a pro, check out this handy step-by-step guide.

Get the Look // One Teaspoon Awesome Baggies // Lee Dylan Jean Wash Out

Round Sunglasses

You can’t have summer without shades, and this season it’s all about round sunglasses. Lending a retro edge to any outfit, the beauty of this style is that it suits anyone since it can be OTT and fashion-forward or kept simple and understated.

Get the Look // Mink Pink Pretty Please // Le Specs Original Sin

The Check Print

From gingham and plaid to jumbo windowpane checks, prints take a decidedly linear approach. I really love how a monochrome palette gives checks a mod flair. A strict black-and-white palette also elevates summer’s simple shapes to give them more impact.

Get the Look // Cameo The Leagues Top // Pare Basic Gingham Skirt

The Flatform

Admittedly, they’re a love-it-or-loathe-it style, but the ugly-pretty flatform is big news for summer. Part wedge and part flat, this hybrid is comfortable and chic, with just the right amount of height.

Get the Look // Mr & Mare Good Vibes // Urge Cannes

The Fringed Bag

There’s only one accessory that you need to finish your look, and that’s a fringed bag. It adds texture and drama to the simplest outfit and is a sophisticated way to take the fringe trend beyond festival dressing.