The CF Team's Summer Style Dilemma's Answered

The impending summer months come with a flurry of plans, and the Citizen Femme team have some shopping questions for our fashion editor, Gemma Louise Deeks.

From beach-safe jewellery and swimwear for larger chests to summer black tie dresses and chic hiking gear, these are the team’s style dilemmas – solved.

Sheena Bhattessa, Founder

Is there a stylish bag I can use for the beach but that also works as a combined baby bag?”

Answer: Dragon Diffusion’s bags have been a perennial summer style staple the last few years – you won’t find a fashion insider without one of these handwoven bags in their wardrobe. Available in a variety of different styles, shapes and colours, the larger sized tote bags are big enough for your travel, beach and baby essentials. My tip? Use packing cubes inside the bag to categorise nappies and wipes, change of clothes, snacks, and to keep your belongings separate from the rest, plus all easy to find.

Katie Silcox, Managing Editor

I visit the beach a lot but always remove my jewellery before I go. Can you recommend some nice pieces that are suitable for days on the sand and in the sea?”

Answer: Jewellery brands have come along way with tarnish-free metals, and there’s plenty of waterproof styles for days on the beach or by the pool. Look to Hey Harper, a brand that took the jewellery market by storm by creating the original waterproof jewellery. Materials like stainless steel are tarnish free, or solid gold, which is generally resistant to water. Otiumberg’s square hoops are extremely durable.

Morag Turner, Citizen Enfants Editor

I have a couple of summer black tie events coming up, can you suggest some elegant evening dresses?”

Answer: British-brand Galvan is my go-to for elegant evening wear, their beautifully-cut, sophisticated silk designs are a match-made-in-heaven for smart occasions. Decadent details, like feathers, are also evening appropriate, and Taller Marmo’s feather-trimmed dress will look beautiful paired with metallic accessories and a summer tan.

Becki Murray, Beauty Editor

I’m touring Australia in May for six weeks, what pieces can I pack for a capsule wardrobe?”

Answer: This is a great question, because when you are away for a long period of time it’s important to pack versatile pieces you can wear for many different occasions. A black midi dress will work hard; you can wear it with sneakers in the daytime and dress it up for the evening. It’s the same with a linen co-ord – they’re stylish but also comfortable. Don’t forget to pack a light jacket too, Agolde’s denim style is a great layer you can throw over anything.

Grace Robson, Partnerships Director

Straight-leg jeans I can wear for spring/summer that are suitable for taller girls?”

Answer: As someone who is 5’7, I swear by SLVRLAKE denim, a brand from Los Angeles that has created the perfect straight leg jean style: The London. There’s a reason they’re a sell-out. Agolde’s criss-cross style also has a longer length with a frayed hem, so can be cut to the desired length, and Toteme’s iconic Twisted Seam sit high on the waist, whilst skimming the ankle. The ecru shade will refresh your denim looks too.

Ella Mansell, Editorial Assistant

I struggle to find swimwear for bigger boobs, are there brands that cater to this?”

Answer: Swimwear has come on leaps and bounds, and there’s plenty of brands that design specifically for larger chests. Form and Fold was founded by lifelong friends Carly (32E) and Stephanie (32DD) who launched exclusively for D+ women in 2017, along with Tona The Label and Monday Swimwear – their ranges offers swimwear up to a G cup.

Bibiana Obahor, Head of Graphic Design

Comfy but stylish heels I can wear all night for an up-coming trip to Dubai?”

Answer: I usually stay away from pointed pumps as they can really pinch your toes, and open toe sandals are generally much more comfortable, especially in hot weather when feet tend to expand. British brand NEOUS is my go-to for heels – I love the lower heel heightened minimalist designs, which still look sexy and are elongating on the leg. Platform heels will be your best-friend too, giving sky-high heels extra support.

Orla Lavery, Senior Press Officer

I’m going on a hiking trip to Bergen, Norway in May, what would you recommend for chic mountain attire?”

Answer: Forget the dowdy walking gear you’d expect your parents to wear on a weekend country walk, Performance activewear is chic in 2024. Salomon’s range of performance sneakers are super stylish, as are Rain’s collection of waterproof jackets. I love the sage green colour of this cropped shape. Pair with ribbed leggings, a logo cap and sunglasses for a cool hiking look.