We’re officially half-way through 2021 (how?!), and while many of us might not have dressed up much—for obvious reasons—there's still time yet! Feeling a little out of the loop fashion-wise? Let the choices of some of the foremost arbiters of style guide you. From Teen Vogue and Marie Claire, to The Coveteur and Forbes, read on for a curated selection of dresses, jackets, accessories, and more that are fashion editor-approved.
1.
With its iconic, soft silhouette and lightweight nature, Kahindo’s brightly patterned take on the classic bomber jacket is as relaxed and unpretentious as it gets. The perfect choice to instantly add a little flair to even the most simple of looks, it’s hard to go wrong with this standout piece. Add a pair of tailored cargo pants and a chunky platform sandal, and you’ve got the chicest of The Zoe Report-approved summer uniforms.
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2.
Boasting a soft woven cotton exterior and gold-plated brass fastening, the Salma Clutch bag by Moroccan label New Tangier is just the thing to add a touch of bespoke glamour to any look. Mentioned by The Zoe Report as one of their favorite evening bags of the season, the piece—which features touches of Moroccan Tarz embroidery, and handmade Sabra (a type of cactus silk) trimmings and tassel—is the embodiment of bohemian luxury. Make it a companion to an elegant evening dress or let it serve as the ideal finishing touch to a casual daytime look.
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3.
Called attention to by Vogue for its stylish exuberance and kaleidoscopic print, Lisa Folawiyo’s irreverent coat dress is a show-stopping silk organza statement piece sure to prove a theatrical cult classic. And though its vibrant pink and yellow print and unusual shape may seem a little intimidating at first, the artisanal creation’s subtle silhouette and flowing fit renders it surprisingly easy to pull off: wear over a cropped top and leggings for a simple yet striking layered ensemble.
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4.
Extravagant volume meets ultra-feminine silhouettes and graceful motifs in this exclusive piece by Senegalese brand Tongoro. Part of a limited-edition capsule collection created in collaboration with Industrie Africa and highlighted by Forbes, the Bolingo Dress is a callback to another Tongoro look sported by Beyoncé in the music film Black is King. Team with a minimalist heel and handbag for a look that is perfectly suited for a dinner with friends or a sophisticated soirée.
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5.
A summertime essential if there ever was one, this basket-style bag from Reform Studio is made almost entirely from recycled plastic bags and, despite its diminutive size, it still packs quite the punch. Featuring subtle touches of gold hardware and available in three striking colorways (pink and orange, beige and gold, and black and gold), Forbes listed it as one of their “Feel-Good Accessories For Spring”, and given its versatility and classic shape, we're inclined to agree.
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A top springtime wardrobe choice by The Coveteur, conceptual South African label Viviers’ Waffle Knit Top delivers on both ingenuity and innovation. With it’s eye-catching shrunken pleats, sashiko stitching, and contrast-colored beads, the handcrafted style hand is both avant-garde and highly wearable, serving as the ultimate sartorial ode to artisanship. Pair with a tailored trouser in a jewel tone and a pair of chunky sandals to create a look that’s bang on-trend.
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7.
Highlighted by The Zoe Report, the Asali Dress by Doreen Mashika is another printed wonder from the Mozambican designer. With its voluminous sleeves and flouncy silhouette, the flirty floral frock is lent a playful effect, while its knee-grazing hemlines and billowy shape offer a respite from the blazing summer sun. Add a slip-on sandal and oversized sun hat for a romantic look that is also super modern.
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8.
Ethically crafted from cow leather and featuring a unique Springbok hair front strap, Thalia Strates’ Kai Cross Body Bag is an aesthetic celebration of longevity, sustainability and craftsmanship. A fool-proof way to channel that coveted French-girl aesthetic according to The Zoe Report, the striking tote boasts an artisanal minimal aesthetic and vivid tan coloring that’s great for setting off a look built from neutral separates.
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Effortlessly cool and the perfect trans-seasonal piece, the Umy Jumpsuit by Diarrablu—as featured in Marie Claire—is an effortless addition to a stylish, modern wardrobe as well as being a comfortable sartorial solution. The one-piece is figure-elongating, completely adjustable and can be worn in over nineteen different ways. Combine it with a pair of comfortable and stylish summer sandals for a look that will take you wherever you need to go.
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A slick combination of masterful tailoring and casual elegance, it's little wonder Marie Claire spotlit Studio 189’s monochrome suit jacket as a fall outfit essential. But since the blazer is a key staple of any woman’s wardrobe, this black and white iteration is sure to be more than just a seasonal fling. It’s also remarkably easy to dress up or down: simply pair with a classic sneaker style in a bright color to add that extra bit of allure or amp up the drama by stepping into your favorite party heels.
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