From the linen shirts I’d have in every colour, to the best tank tops I own…
*This post features a collaboration with ARKET & gifted products
If you’re a regular reader around these parts then it will come as no surprise to you that I’m a big fan of ARKET*. Like a BIG FAN. In fact the brand makes up a large percentage of my wardrobe, particularly my everyday essentials. That is where the brand really stands out for me. They have knack of creating and designing classic staples with effortless fits that are made to stand the test of time and repetitive use (have you seen how often I’ve worn and washed their linen shirts?!?). So today I’m sharing the pieces I own that really form the foundation of my basics and are what I consider to be some of my best wardrobe investments..
LINEN
I feel like I could write a whole dissertation at this point on how much I love the ARKET linen collection. My favourite thing is to buy a whole set – either a shirt with a short or a shirt that matches a trouser, so I can do the head to toe linen thing and just feel as cool as a cucumber. Shirt-wise I just adore the ARKET Oversized Linen Shirts*. They have been an absolute staple in my wardrobe now for the past two summers and that won’t be changing anytime soon. I’ve always loved the black and beige style, but this summer sees the addition of the ‘dark beige’ style, which is right up my street. This summer I’ve also added a few of the ARKET Short-Sleeved Linen Shirts* into my rotation which are going to be great when it’s absolutely boiling, and again something great to wear with a matching trouser or short, or even jeans like the photos above. The ARKET Linen Shorts* are so, so comfortable. Brilliant for if you’re going on holiday or just need something comfy for around the house, but I do love wearing these out with the oversized shirt and some chunky sandals. And then the ARKET Linen Drawstring Trousers* are just such a winner. Again I am here for the drawstring waistband and just what a chic outfit a head-to-toe linen look is.
T-SHIRTS
My T-shirt drawer mostly consists of ARKET and with good reason. They do it all when it comes to T-shirts – lighter-weight breezy styles, heavier more structured fits, crew necks, oversized, fitted – they have you covered. If I had to pick one I’d point you in the direction of the ARKET Heavyweight T-Shirt*. It’s just very unique. It does exactly what it says on the tin and provides a boxier fit that sits away from your body, but still looks fab tucked into jeans (plus it’s now available in an Oversized Fit* too). The ARKET Crew-Neck T-Shirt* is a classic and is *just* the right thickness (and is the one I’m wearing in the photos above). Thin enough to be layered in the winter, but thick enough to be worn on it’s own when it warms up. Short-sleeve styles sorted, I have to say I do enjoy the ARKET Long-Sleeved T-Shirt*. There is something so classic about wearing one of these with a black trouser or wide-leg jeans, some sandals and a large tote. There is something so effortless about that combination.
TANK TOPS
Tank tops are something that I reach for all-year round. Perfect for layering under jumpers in the winter, as a base layer under jackets in the transitional months and then they come into their own – quite literally – in the summer. To me, the ARKET Rib Racer Tank Top* is the best racerback style I’ve found. It cuts in a flattering way around the arm and isn’t too tricky to adapt your bra set-up underneath to keep it concealed. I’ve got the black, white and the khaki green (which I would 100% bookmark for if it comes back into stock – it’s such a great neutral green). If you want a bit more coverage in the armpit area then I’d suggest the ARKET Rib Tank Top* – it’s the one I’m wearing in the photos above styled with the ARKET Crinkle Satin Trousers*. The fabric is a little bit thicker and less ribbed than the racer style, so I like having the two to switch up. Between these two styles my tank top drawer covers all bases.
Photos by Mark Newton