It's the 567th day of the summer heatwave, I can't think it's so hot, I've spent all my money on iced coffees and I have absolutely nothing to wear.
What is a fashion obsessed girl with an empty bank account to do? The solution came to me as I was scrolling on Instagram. No, not divine intervention; it was a reel full of fabulous supermarket fashion, courtesy of Naomi Ross. In her ‘Supermarket Gems’ series, she shares her edit of the latest drops at Sainsbury’s Tu, Tesco F+F, George at Asda and more, and after watching about 27 of them in a row, she had reeled me in.
There were pretty broderie anglaise blouses, tailored linen shorts that fall just above the knee, some gorgeous wide-leg monochrome printed trousers (annoyingly sold out; I’m on the waiting list), raffia beach bags and effortless denim dresses – all from Sainsbury’s and under £40. Over at Tesco, you’ll find chic co-ords and relaxed suiting that looks way more expensive than its sub-£50 price tag. While George at Asda is doing some fabulous sun dresses for under £25.
So, I did a mini heatwave shop. These are the amazing pieces I found, including a pair of snakeskin trousers for just £10 that I've been wearing ever since.
George at Asda Snakeskin Cropped Wide Leg Trousers
George at Asda Snakeskin Cropped Wide Leg Trousers
I paired these with one of Sainbury's Tu's linen blend shirts – incredible quality for the price. This one is low in stock but you may be able to shop an alternative colourway; I recommend snapping them up as they're a great breathable option for the heat.
Sainsbury's Black Linen Blend Long Sleeve Shirt
Alternatively, go for the co-ord with this strappy top for just £8.
My other brilliant heatwave find? The Sainsbury's Tu linen blend shorts, which are the perfect length for right now, ending just above the knee. I got them in yellow and monochrome stripe. Again, these are going fast, so grab them while you can!
Sainsbury's Yellow Linen Blend Tailored Shorts
Sainsbury's Yellow Linen Blend Tailored Shorts
Sainsbury's Cream Stripe Tailored Linen Blend Jorts
Sainsbury's Cream Stripe Tailored Linen Blend Jorts
Pair with a simple vest top, or a lightweight blouse, like this one. Note, it's a little see-through, so you'll need a cami to pop underneath.
Sainsbury's Orange Polka Dot Print Scarf Shirt
Sainsbury's Orange Polka Dot Print Scarf Shirt
Of course, the greatest heatwave solution is a one-and-done dress that you can waft around in, feeling smug. And George at Asda has this gorgeous cotton poplin red dress for just £20. I love the structured bodice (ruched at the back for comfort) and the structured skirt, which really elevates it.
This one is out of stock in quite a few sizes, but it also comes in the colour of the year, chocolate brown, and will look great with gold jewellery and a tan.
George at Asda Brown Strappy Poplin Midi Dress
George at Asda Brown Strappy Poplin Midi Dress
Meanwhile, this Sainsbury's Tu dress, as modelled by Naomi in her latest reel (hence why it's pretty much sold out online, although may be available in stores), features a gorgeous summery print that will stand out at the picnic, on the beach and in the office.
Sainsbury's Teal Geo Print Midi Sleeveless Dress
Sainsbury's Teal Geo Print Midi Sleeveless Dress
And this cotton midi just looks so crisp and cool right now.
Sainsbury's Tu x Morris & Co. White Kelmscott Trellis Embroidered Print Sleeveless Cami Dress
Sainsbury's Tu x Morris & Co. White Kelmscott Trellis Embroidered Print Sleeveless Cami Dress
There are so many fabulous items, but this isn't about fast fashion; it's about being selective and choosing quality, well made pieces.
‘Supermarkets are much more trend aware now, but they’re also producing really strong wardrobe staples like denim,’ Naomi tells me when I get in touch to quiz her. ‘The price-to-quality ratio is often incredible, which is why my supermarket fashion content has grown so much. People can see that they're getting stylish wearable pieces without the hefty price tag and that accessibility really resonates right now.’
You do have to be selective though. ‘I always start by looking at the fabrics, cut and fit rather than focusing on the label,’ Naomi advises when I ask how she finds her supermarket gems. ‘My biggest tip is to shop with your existing wardrobe in mind, think about what pieces will work with items you already own rather than buying something just because it’s affordable. I also love mixing supermarket fashion with higher-end pieces or older items in my wardrobe. A good quality handbag, jewellery or a chic pair of shoes can instantly elevate a more affordable outfit.’ I would also recommend a good clothes steamer.
Armed with Naomi’s tips, I’ve curated a capsule holiday wardrobe for under £75. And I'll be keeping an eye on those new-in sections from now on....
