It's always exciting at the start of a new season to think about the new trends and how you might refresh your wardrobe ahead of some warmer weather. It can be tempting to run straight out and start filling your wardrobe with the latest trends. I'm definitely not against refreshing things with a few new items but it can be really easy to forget what you already have and what you loved last year. Rediscovering these items is a great way of cutting down how much you buy but also for buying yourself some time to see exactly what gaps you have in your wardrobe, which trends you want to style with and what you really need. 

In reality there's probably plenty of outfits that you can already make from the basic purchases, or maybe even more trend led pieces, that you've bought over the past few years. The fact you haven't worn most of these pieces in the recent months can make them feel all exciting and new again and a fresh perspective can help you build outfits you may not have thought of last year. 

In an effort to keep consuming less and being more conscious of the impact my wardrobe has on the environment I've taken to building more outfits from what I already have in my summer wardrobe from last year. All comfortable but fit into that smart-casual bracket so are perfect whether you're in the office or more heading out for a weekend BBQ. And you probably own these items already too. 

1. Cami top and jeans with a blazer and strappy heels

On the crisper summer days I can still be found in a blazer, a light one in particular is the perfect way to smarten up any outfit. Paired with a simple cami and some loose fitting jeans you've got a great smart casual outfit that doesn't feel too heavy and is the perfect nod to the 90s trend that we're all loving this year. Shoe wise I go for either a pair of strappy heels to really lean into that 90s trend or keep it simple and casual with a pair of white trainers. 

2. Denim skirt, white shirt, low sandals 

I've been converted to the denim skirt, I'm only about 3 years behind. Just as versatile as denim jeans but instantly make any look more summery and perfect on those days when it's just a little bit too warm to be fully covered. A white shirt is my go to regardless of the time of year, in the summer I like something a little lighter in fabric but like the versatility of still having sleeves so I’m not too chilly in the office air con. Mixing up your white shirts is a good way to something a little different to your outfit. I like going for big puffy sleeves, exaggerated collars or even some broderie englais to add some difference between outfits. 

3. Linen trousers, cami top and low heeled sandals 

Linen is a true summer wardrobe essential and there's something about linen trousers that just never goes out of style. It doesn't matter the colour, paired with any cami top they become that perfect smart-casual staple that will keep you cool but still covered up if you don't want to bare all. A low heeled sandal helps to dress the look up a bit whilst still being comfortable and practical whether you're at work or relaxing on the weekend. 

Striking the balance between enjoying fashion and not just filling your wardrobe with new things every season can be a bit of a challenge. We all love the thrill of something new but taking another look at what you already have can really help to curb that. I've found this to be a great way of still getting inspired and exciter about what I'm wearing without spending loads on the things I haven't quite thought through.