A five-piece summer wardrobe that mixes easily

A small wardrobe works when every piece goes with every other piece. These five cover work, errands and an evening out.

1. A loose white or ivory shirt

Wear it buttoned, open over a tee, or tied at the waist. Light colours reflect heat and go with everything.

2. Wide-leg trousers in a neutral

Black, beige or olive. A wide leg lets air move and looks polished with flats or heels.

3. A midi dress

One piece and you are dressed. Choose a breathable fabric and a cut you can wear with sandals in the day and a blazer at night.

4. A plain tee

Fitted but not tight, in a colour that matches both the trousers and the skirt or dress layers you own.

5. A light layer

A thin cardigan or unlined blazer for air-conditioned rooms and cooler evenings.

Making it work

Keep to two or three neutral colours and add one accent colour you enjoy. Before buying something new, name three things you already own that it can be worn with. If you cannot, leave it.