Meet Your Most Versatile Summer Separate

Here’s a question I’ve been pondering over the past few weeks as I stare exhaustedly into my wardrobe each morning: what can I wear that’s more elevated than a t-shirt but will also keep me cool? That makes me feel pulled-together, but isn’t so fitted I’ll think twice about another mince pie?

The answer is always a short-sleeved shirt.

If you buy one for summer, it will undoubtedly be the hardest-working item you own. A crisp, nicely ironed (yes, you need to iron) cotton shirt, like the ESSE ruby shirt below, looks great for work when paired with high-waisted black trousers and a belt, but you could also wear it loose with a wide-legged pant and thongs for a more casual look.

A short-sleeved shirt will undoubtedly be the hardest-working item you own

Similarly, the gorgeous silk Camilla and Marc shirt, with its olive-coloured Johnston print, is the perfect summer office piece, but looks equally chic with faded denim shorts and sandals. You can wear these shirts buttoned up, or open over a tank or bikini top; tucked in, or loose for a Byron vibe.

And there are so many patterns and colours out there, you’re sure to find one that works with the rest of your wardrobe. They’re often part of a matching set, too.

“I’m an avid wearer of high-waisted pants, and I think short-sleeved shirts look great with them,” says stylist Bree Macara, who selected this week’s shopping picks. “But to my mind, the freshest way to style them is with a mid-length straight skirt and sandals. Very chic.”

Here’s our pick of the best…