Beauty & Style

12 Key Summer Pieces Under $30

New Idea’s fashion editor showcases the season’s most stylish yet affordable buys.
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Your diary might be looking a little scant these days, but the opportunity to bring some joy back into your life via your outfits shouldn’t be overlooked. Following what arguably feels like the longest winter of all time, now is the perfect time to think about fusing foundational wardrobe builders with timeless yet on-trend pieces that reflect the lazy summer days ahead.

This season, elevated basics, classic linen blend, hero dresses and chic accessories take centre stage, providing a host of versatile, stylish options. For sustainable yet affordable pieces you only need to look to Kmart, which has released a new range focused on bright, tonal colours and comfortable silhouettes you can wear through the summer and beyond.

Kmart shirred bodice dress

“The warmer weather brings that relaxed nostalgia of sun baked summers outdoors whilst wearing bursts of unique prints and relaxed silhouettes,” says Kmart’s Head Of Design and Forecast, Anne-Marie Bodal. “When designing this range, we wanted to bring that sense of optimism and pleasure to life.”

In the video above, New Idea’s fashion editor, Paige McMillan, showcases 12 new season pieces you’ll love, and below, we break down what to pop on your summer shopping list. Best of all, each piece is available at Kmart for under $30 each.

Kmart short magenta dress
Kmart white dress

The hero dress

A versatile, hard-working dress should be top of your summer shopping list. Whether you’re drawn to romantic midi dresses with floral prints, easy-to-wear button-ups or colourful minis, there’s something for everyone this season. And regardless of whether your social engagements are few and far between these days, summer days call for a return to a more optimistic, fun-loving style. 

“An easy-to-throw on dress will be your best friend on a hot summer’s day,” says McMillan.

Kmart linen short suit

Linen blend

Nothing screams summer quite like linen blend. The no-fuss fabric is perfect for keeping cool on long hot days, and can be easily dressed up or down. Opt for pieces with button detailing to give your outfit an edge, and saturated, tonal hues that will slot easily into your existing wardrobe. This season, linen blend is one of the main textures used in Kmart’s ‘Coloured by Nature’ range, giving the collection an elevated, effortless feel.

“Kmart’s linen blends are high end quality, minus the price tag,” says McMillan. “I absolutely love the way they fall on the body and feel on skin, so light and comfortable. I am particularly in awe of the bright pink matching short and blazer, it is so versatile and perfectly tailored to any age and body type.”

Kmart accessories

Accessories

It’s often said accessories can make or break a look, and this season, they’re more important than ever. From hats, to bags, to shoes, some simple yet chic additions will take your outfit to the next level.

“The accessories this season are a real stand-out for me​,” says McMillan of Kmart’s offering. “The slides, oversized straw totes and quilted cross-body bags are all on-trend and easy to pair with any outfit from the collection, making Kmart a one-stop shop for your whole look, from head-to-toe.​”

Brought to you by Kmart

Shop the Kmart summer range

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