In summer, we all want pieces that are easy to throw on in the morning and require little to-no styling, so we can maximise hours spent outside of the office. This year, our design team has found the perfect solution to everyday summer dressing – towelling fabrics. Just looking at it makes us think of coconut suncream and salty hair, however towelling isn’t only practical for long, lazy days at the beach.
Terry Cloth shirts and dresses have a nostalgic feel; in the ’60s and ’70s there was a boom in using it for sportswear (think tennis shorts and polos) and ready-to-wear, particularly with American brands. Often rendered in Miami-worthy pastel hues, these towel sets were a key part of the All American country club aesthetic.
Towel shirts have been more dominant in menswear – a terry cloth polo shirt and slip-on loafers is very Talented Mr Ripley – however over the past couple of years there has been a new appreciation for towelling in womenswear, too.
There is no doubt that terry cloth or towel fabrics are a practical poolside cover-up, as they are absorbent so won’t get crinkled or soggy from a damp swimsuit or dripping hair. In our collection we have mini dresses, shorts and co-ords that will take you from the sunlounger to sundowners. The quick-dry properties also make them a useful addition to your suitcase, as they can be washed mid-vacation, without needing to dry for a day and then be ironed.
However, you don’t need to save this for hot-weather adventures, as our towel dresses and co-ords can be surprisingly practical at home. We have reimagined many of our hero summer staples in a mid-weight, textured towelling fabric, in classic navy as well as punchier reds and purples. The navy short-sleeved shirt, for example, looks just as stylish when worn with wide-leg jeans and sunglasses for a weekend at home, as with the matching shorts for the beach. It is very throw-on-and-go, however as the fabric has some weight to it, it manages to always look polished and structured.
Keep reading for how you can wear towelling for all of your summer plans this year and beyond.
Our towelling is 80% cotton, has a hand-soft feel and is a world away from rough or scratchy towels, making it comfortable for travelling in. The trousers will feel like you are wearing jogging bottoms, thanks to the elasticated waist and loose wide-leg, however they have a more structured, elegant silhouette. The matching polo shirt gives it a sophisticated, streamlined look that will take you from plane to destination.
Our towelling is 80% cotton, has a hand-soft feel and is a world away from rough or scratchy towels, making it comfortable for traveling in. The pants will feel like you are wearing sweatpants, thanks to the elasticated waist and loose wide-leg, however they have a more structured, elegant silhouette. The matching polo shirt gives it a sophisticated, streamlined look that will take you from plane to destination.
When it comes to a bikini coverup, it doesn’t get easier than these shorts and matching tank top in either violet or navy. Pair with fisherman sandals and preferably an ice cream. You can also swap the tank top for the polo top, if you are after more coverage of the shoulders.
This A-line midi dress has a very classic shape, with thick straps, a flared skirt and a square neckline, however it is given a more relaxed feel in the towel fabric. It’s the perfect companion for hot-weather vacations, as it will bring some polish to your poolside looks and see you through evening dinners. At home, wear with a button-down shirt or khaki jacket on cooler days.
And finally, it doesn’t get comfier than our towel sweatpants. They have elasticated cuffs at the hems to create a structured silhouette that doesn’t look as sloppy as loungewear typically does. The matching cropped bralette top has a smocked panel at the back to help create the perfect fit. Ideal for a weekend of errands at home or exploring a new city.
This dress taps into the ’60s country club aesthetic, thanks to the preppy collar with a zip and short hemline. The zip means you can adjust the neckline to find your most flattering fit. This mini will see you through a heatwave, at home or away.
This dress taps into the ’60s country club aesthetic, thanks to the preppy collar with a zip and short hemline. The zip means you can adjust the neckline to find your most flattering fit. This mini will see you through a heatwave, at home or away.