Royals and A-listers love Barbour's iconic wax jackets - but the brand's summer dresses really deserve the spotlight
There's so much more to Barbour than just their famous jackets
You don't need me to tell you that a Barbour jacket is right up there with the most classic investment pieces you could possibly add to your wardrobe. The late Queen Elizabeth II famously wore the same Barbour jacket for 25 years, and the rest of the Royal Family are fans too. Kate Middleton has at least four in her collection, plus the brand is firmly in the realms of high fashion thanks to recent collaborations with Ganni, Erdem and Farm Rio. They even made it to the Met Gala this year, with Claire Foy donning an Erdem x Barbour creation on the red carpet.
But have you ever thought about shopping at British clothing brand Barbour for anything other than a jacket? Turns out their latest collection is full of breezy summer dresses, breathable blouses and even stylish sandals. With a lightweight summer jacket in there for good measure, of course.
If your summer capsule wardrobe is in need of a revamp, Barbour is the best-kept secret on the high street. Start with the classic striped shirt dress, and stay for the barrel-leg jeans. Happy shopping!
Shop my Barbour top picks
You simply can't go far with a classic shirt dress like this one. It might be a little bit more expensive than you'd expect to buy at M&S or Zara, but the luxury details - such as the Barbour embroidery on the cuff - really elevate this super versatile piece.
I've been scouring the high street for some subtle flares, and these fit the bill perfectly. They've got a bit of stretch in the fabric, and this ecru colour is a much softer alternative to stark white.
If you're looking for stylish dresses to hide a tummy that work well in the heat, this gingham dress is 100% cotton, and the elasticated waist makes it super comfortable. It's available in UK sizes 8 to 18 and will look effortlessly stylish paired with your best white trainers.
There's nothing quite like a crisp white blouse in the summer, and the sailor collar on this style is so chic. The pearl buttons make it look much more expensive than it is, plus the nipped-in waist creates a flattering silhouette.
The Barbour x Farm Rio range has to be one of the best collaborations I've seen in years. How perfect is this dress for a summer wedding? £299 might be more than you were hoping to spend, but you'll treasure this floral masterpiece forever.
Barbour might not be the first brand that springs to mind when you think of a sunny day at the beach, but this bag is the perfect size for all your essentials. It's also available in black, and I love the tartan lining.
A stylish alternative to the Birkenstock Boston clog, these slip-on shoes are a bestseller on the Barbour website. They're made from 100% suede with a rubber sole, and the neutral colour means they'll work with everything in your wardrobe. They'll be particularly handy when travelling.
My trusty old denim shirt gets a lot of wear, but this feels like a much fresher take on a classic. The boxy fit, the bib neckline, the turn-back cuffs.... 10/10 no notes from me.
Missing your favourite Barbour wax jacket in the warmer months? This lightweight gingham cover-up is ideal for chillier days. The cord collar is a nice nod to the brand's most iconic designs.
Yes, we're in a heatwave right now, but that surely means a storm will follow. This showerproof jacket is really light, so can be folded up and popped in a tote bag when the sun comes out.
It doesn't matter how many new denim styles come out, I can't get enough of barrel-leg jeans. The tapered cuff looks so stylish paired with ballet flats or summer sandals, and these are made from a non-stretch cotton.
I'd take a chunky sandals over more minimal styles any day, and the cleated sole on the Gabby looks like it means business. If you're planning on doing a lot of walking on holiday, these will be right up your street.
The khaki colour of this jacket will work as a neutral even when you pair it with prints, plus I love the contrast collar and pockets. I predict this one will sell out, and soon.
This breezy maxi skirt is exactly the kind of piece I want to be wearing in the 30-something degree heat this week. The heritage print is very Barbour, plus it's got pockets - need I say more?
People will be really surprised when you tell them this dress is from Barbour. With the embroidery, I'd have guessed it was something like Doen! The navy colour works makes it so easy to wear, and I love it with wedge espadrilles.
