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Summer is so close that we here at GRAZIA can practically taste the beachside Aperols and OOO emails.
Naturally, with a season of Christmas parties, New Year’s and sunny getaways ahead, we’re looking at the wardrobe, beauty and home pieces to make it all that much better.
With an overflowing calendar and plenty of R&R on the schedule this season, we’ve hunted down the very best products and events to get excited about. From the perfect summer read to party shoes that are actually comfortable and a sleek bag to add polish to any outfit, team GRAZIA has rounded up the purchases and experiences worth your time and money.
Ahead, everything our editors are recommending for summer.
“Warmer days call for breezy silhouettes. But to still look put-together is a challenge when you’re sweating through your linens and your makeup. The answer, I’ve discovered, is investing in a sophisticated purse that can instantly pull a look together like the Miss Dior bag. Its elegant and sleek design crafted from a classic quilted lambskin can be worn as a clutch, top-handle bag or crossbody, making it a versatile match for any occasion—and one you’ll hold onto forever.” —Pema Bakshi, Fashion Features Editor
“Waterford, the revered 240-year-old crystal makers, have teamed up with the estate of the late American soul singer-songwriter and record producer Luther Vandross to produce two crystal collections: Luther 81 and the limited-edition Luther 81 X. These stunning karo-cut Luther Vandross champagne coups have elevated my bar (and my Friday nights) as have its matching Luther Vandross crystal cocktail shaker. The crystal cut in both pieces represents the iconic musician’s lyrics ‘A thousand kisses’, a line from his hit song ‘Never Too Much’. Beautiful glassware and a great talking piece.” — Jessica Bailey, Editorial Director
“Delivering our dream holiday wardrobe is none other than coveted Sydney-based label, Beare Park. For the Resort ’24 season, the resolutely minimal label has rendered its signature allusive elegance in more formal silhouettes. Tailoring remains acutely decisive, yet it’s the body-conscious silk and sumptuously draped silk pieces that propel the brand’s sartorial anthology. The accompanying campaign images promises a provincial affair. The bucolic countryside is the perfect backdrop for burnt Sienna shirting, georgette overlays and off-the-shoulder shapes. Indeed, a collection of pieces compelling us to wander around a château garden in.” — Ava Gilchrist, Senior Fashion Features Writer
“I’ve been a long-time proponent of Suki Waterhouse’s vintage-inspired wardrobe long before she became a household name. So, if there was any member of the celebrity style set who could get me into the cowboy boot trend, it’s her. This distressed style is feminine yet Western, with contrasts reminiscent of hazy 70s summers spent in California. I’ll be wearing my Golden Goose boots with Ganni babydoll dresses as my go-to summer uniform.” — Ava Gilchrist, Senior Fashion Features Writer
“I love to cook, but I’m no home chef. I do, however, love to shop my way to better practice. I was sceptical of these viral Our Place pots and pans, but after using the Always Pan for just a week, I immediately added more of their range to my cart. Not only are they non-stick and a delight to use, but they clean so easily—I’m talking burnt cheese that glides off the bottom—and come in a range of super chic colours. Thoughtful details like no-spill spouts, a spoon rest, and a steamer basket that doubles as a colander are just the cherries on top!” — Pema Bakshi, Fashion Features Editor
“Sydney weather has been unpredictable, to put it lightly. I never used to bother investing in umbrellas because, firstly, I lived in sharehouses where it was too hard trying to keep one close, and secondly, they always broke anyway. The story changes with Blunt, a New Zealand label that has changed the game with its enduring umbrellas that actually withstand the coastal winds and briefly tumultuous downpours we experience here. The brand features a host of chic colourways, but its latest collaboration with First Nations artist Kenita-Lee McCartney is a favourite for its striking designs that brighten up a gloomy rainy day in the city.” — Pema Bakshi, Fashion Features Editor
“My mum strictly wears rose gold, and, by nature, I have grown up wearing the same. Van Cleef & Arpels has just released the Fleurette collection, a series of rose gold pieces centred on bringing seven round diamonds together in one dazzling corolla. These Fleurette earrings—18k rose gold and diamonds—are an elegant, timeless investment set that can be worn every day.” —Jessica Bailey, Editorial Director
“Faithfull never misses a beat. But their swimwear is on another level—and so underrated! For the latest collection, L’Oasis, the brand’s breezy dresses and casual linen separates are accompanied by a handful of dreamy bikinis, one-pieces and beach accessories that’ll excite you for summer. A personal favourite of the GRAZIA team is this gorgeous print that suits any and all skin tones.” —Pema Bakshi, Fashion Features Editor
“My biggest struggle in the summer is getting dressed for the office. Trying to balance the heat and ferocious air-con while trying to maintain a sense of professionalism isn’t that easy, especially when my job can take me from meetings with my bosses to daytime soirees and more formal evening occasions without much time to change up my look in between. Enter new designer, Courtney Zheng. Providing modern silhouettes that boast the quality of traditional craftsmanship, the Australian label is quickly garnering attention for its thoughtful approach to design and androgynous-chic aesthetic. For warmer days, this pinstripe vest will be a particular favourite that can face up to any dress code my day requires.” — Pema Bakshi, Fashion Features Editor
“Collecting Murano glass is a guilty pleasure of mine, so when I saw that one of my favourite jewellery labels, Danish-based Sophie Billie Brahe, had released a collection of heirloom-inspired vases, I knew investing in a piece was inevitable. I first came across Sophie Billie Brahe upon my visit to Copenhagen for fashion week, and I’ll happily expand my collection of her pieces with this escargot-shaped glass. Perhaps on days I’m feeling mischievous, I’ll use it as a champagne coup or a place to hold trinkets like my matchbox collection.” — Ava Gilchrist, Senior Fashion Features Writer
“KOWTOW is the OG brand when it comes to sustainable shopping. It’s a brand that sits so nicely within my wardrobe, from my favourite plain white T-shirt that I wear everywhere to my bright pink jeans; its range is versatile and always comfortable. Their environmental and ethical credits also go far beyond other brands on the market, and the quality speaks for itself. After huge success with its Auckland flagship, the New Zealand-born brand has opened its first flagship in Australia on Melbourne’s iconic Gertrude Street. Treat yourself to a visit ASAP.” — Pema Bakshi, Fashion Features Editor
“If you’re in a reading slump, this is a book you will genuinely struggle to put down. Following the story of June Hayward, a struggling writer who just happens to fall into a situation where she’s passing her dead friend’s unfinished manuscript as her own, it’s the perfect blend of drama, humour, mystery, and betrayal that’ll keep you turning the pages way into the night. What makes it a great holiday read, though, is that it’s gripping but not so complicated that you need to be in a particular headspace to enjoy it.” — Pema Baskhi, Fashion Features Editor
“There’s no better time to upgrade your phone than Christmas. And while there are a lot of new features on the new iPhone 15, the ones you will most likely care about the most are its durability, camera quality, and all-day battery life. Yes, you’ll be happy to know the new iPhone 15 has a ceramic shield front, which is tougher than any smartphone glass, and a battery that can support up to 20 hours of video playback. The best part, though? The main camera now shoots in super high resolution—48MP, to be exact—so you can take stunning landscape pics with really intricate detail. You can also add ‘Portrait Mode’ to your photos after you take the shot.” —Jessica Bailey, Editorial Director
“In exciting news for Sydney-siders, everyone’s favourite It-girl brand Réalisation Par, founded by Alexandra Spencer and Teale Talbot, opened its first pop-up shop at 29 William St in Paddington. For the first time Down Under, you can access the label’s silky slips and figure-flattering silhouettes in person for the entire month of December. The only problem? Trying to limit your purchases. But hey, it’s here for a good time, not a long time, so get in while you can and fill your summer wardrobe with these must-have pieces.” —Pema Bakshi, Fashion Features Editor
“Half-moon bags have somewhat quelled in popularity since the introduction of Birkin-fied carry-alls, but the small Gemelli from Bottega Veneta in a crisp mint and rich merlot colour way is enough to pioneer a revival. The contrasting pouch also doubles as a handle, making this option extremely versatile but doubly functional.” — Ava Gilchrist, Senior Fashion Features Writer
“My expansive collection of blazers, coats and leather jackets physically occupy my entire wardrobe. And yet, there’s a gap. What I’m after this season is something a little less corporate but more playful than my vintage leathers. This retro-style number by Sleeper is the missing piece I never knew I needed. With its unique texture, tie-up closure and detachable feather sleeves, it’s the perfect addition to a simple slip or even just a t-shirt and jeans this festive season.” —Pema Bakshi, Fashion Features Editor
“I have sensitive skin that can get quite dry in areas, but I’m very prone to congestion. This lovely combination makes cleansing of critical importance, but finding the right one isn’t an easy feat. When I met this new Augustinus Bader cleanser, I was hesitant to switch up my safe routine, but given how much I love their creams, I figured I could try it. Fast-forward about a month of trialling it later, and it’s reached top-shelf status. Soft and gentle without stripping the skin, it’s a great and versatile cleanser for all year round. Thank you once again, Mr Bader.” —Pema Bakshi, Fashion Features Editor
“Investing in a quality trans-seasonal jacket is a mission in itself, but my search for the ideal lightweight layer to take me through summer evenings has ended. This body-conscious, stonewash style from Australian label With Jéan brings 90s femme fatale flair to an otherwise tried-and-tested silhouette. Featuring a button-up fixture around the neck and lace-up back detailing, this piece is perfect to wear on its own during long balmy nights or throw over a mini dress for morning runs to the farmer’s market.” — Ava Gilchrist, Senior Fashion Features Writer
“Earlier this year, Wynn Hamlyn’s Resort 24 show, ‘Petrol Heads’, had us mentally adding the lot to our carts. Already seen on celebrities like Pete Davidson, the collection was a masterclass in bringing an elevated sensibility to streetwear. Introducing more of Hamlyn’s affinity to ‘work of the hand’ and technical mastery, the collection is packed with energetic pieces for the summer months and beyond. And now that it’s available to shop, we can finally add those pieces to cart IRL.” — Pema Bakshi, Fashion Features Editor
“The Bermuda short is a perennial summer staple. However, there is arguably no piece on the market as stylish or sustainable as this pair from Australian luxuriate Aje and ethical denim brand, Outland Denim. I’ve had my eye on this long-line style since the five-piece collection debuted during Aje’s 15th-anniversary runway collection at Australian Fashion Week. Thankfully they’ve dropped just as the mercury has begun to climb. Each piece in the collection is made from an innovative lyocell fibre with organic and recycled cotton, meaning that these shorts aren’t only the most sumptuous pair of denim you could own but also one of the most considered. During hot summer days, I’ll be wearing these with my cowboy boots and a bikini top à la Kendall Jenner, before throwing on my new leather jacket for nights out like Carrie Bradshaw.” — Ava Gilchrist, Senior Fashion Features Writer
“After kickstarting summer with the launch of Paradiso, Venroy’s first-ever fragrance, the Australian resort label has ensured the inhabitants of Bondi Beach will be well dressed all season long with their newly unveiled boutique. Set back from the iconic beachfront, Venroy has converted the neighbourhood’s former post office into a dreamy escape. Fitted out with Mediterranean touch points, including limestone flooring and an alfresco feel, Venroy’s newest boutique serves as a homecoming for the brand. While Venroy’s clothes, and in turn, this corner store, will make you yearn for far-flung islands under the sun like Capri, the balmy flagship is an anchor point reminding us of the label’s origin.” — Ava Gilchrist, Senior Fashion Features Writer
“Two heroes of streetwear, Song For The Mute and Adidas have come together once again for the collab of our dreams. Inspired by a world of futuristic utopian ideals, Drop 002 brings two sneakers that are perfect for those of us who don’t usually flock to the box-fresh kind. With subtle upper mesh detailing, contrasting tones that can easily pair with any outfit, and signature frayed edges, both the Shadowturf and Campus 80s are sure to be summer hits. The collection drops on December 7, so snag them before they inevitably sell out.” — Pema Bakshi, Fashion Features Editor
Eight Reserve by 818 Tequila, $350 SHOP NOW.
“Kendall Jenner’s 818 Tequila is quickly rising the ranks in the spirit world to become one of the most coveted brews. The Eight Reserve is the most premium drop in Jenner’s tequila arsenal, with the full-bodied brew a meticulously crafted luxurious Añejo blend designed for an unparalleled drinking experience. This begins with the hand-crafted ceramic bottle, which serves as an art piece and statement cornerstone of any bar, (or bar cart). The liquor itself is deceptively elaborated, with bold layers of complex agave, vanilla and toasted spice. The taste is evocative of long desert nights under the Californian sun, with Eight Reserve serving as a throughline to Jenner’s hometown.” — Ava Gilchrist, Senior Fashion Features Writer
