The power of a subtle yet excellent summer top is not to be overlooked. While dresses get all the glory, it's always the easy-to-throw-on-and-forget-about blouse that does the real work in summer.
Which brings me to Zara's linen-blend polo-collar oversized blouse.
I have a genuine soft spot for what I call "boring but brilliant" pieces, and this is one of them. With its relaxed collar, V-neck, roomy cut - especially the longer back hem - and long sleeves, this is a blouse that covers you up yet somehow makes you look like the chicest woman in the room.
Zara also knows this is an excellent top; they've gone all in, making it in sizes six to 18 and in four such spot-on summer colours that I don't think there's a woman alive who won't find one to suit her.
There's a soft caramel tan that looks far more expensive than it has any right to, a perfectly judged lipstick pink that avoids veering into Pepto Bismol territory, a classic stripe with a touch of St Tropez flair and a crisp white that will work beautifully with a freshly minted tan, though do be careful if yours comes from a bottle.
Then there's the cut. This blouse has elegant volume, complete with a vented pleat in its back to create shape. My advice? If you're between sizes 6 to 12 size up if you can. You'll get even more airiness and, frankly, more value for money. I'm a size 10 and often buy a size 14 top for precisely this reason.
The beauty of a piece like this is that it will work everywhere you go throughout the summer. With shorts at home or on holiday. Over a swimsuit on the walk back from the beach. With wide-leg linen trousers, white jeans, balloon trousers or loose summer jeans in the city. With a midi skirt for lunch. Paired with a sarong. Worn loose. Worn tucked in. It's that useful.
And when you see the price, £27.99, you may find yourself rubbing your eyes slightly.
Because this is one of those increasingly rare Zara finds that combines a quality fabric with thoughtful design and timeless appeal. The 55% linen blend gives it substance, the silhouette gives it longevity and the overall effect is confident and chic.
My own Zara summer staples have stayed with me for years. Not because they're fashion forward, but because they're useful and modern. They come out every June and go away every September looking just as relevant as they did the year before.
This blouse is exactly that sort of piece. Treat it well, and it will last you for many summers and holidays.
