Celebrity stylist Scott Da Silva-Wells has identified texture as the key to making summer outfits look more expensive, with high street retailers including M&S, H&M, Primark, and Next offering a wide range of textured pieces for the 2026 season. From crochet mules to woven bags and head-to-toe lace, texture is the design detail that nods to summer without sacrificing style.
Why Texture Is the Season's Must-Have
According to Scott Da Silva-Wells, '2026 seems to be a year that the high street is serving up the ultimate inspiration for our summer looks. However, there’s one simple trick that I use on my clients to make their outfits look more expensive, and that’s by incorporating texture.' He notes that crochet, pleats, woven fabrics, broderie, embellishments, applique, and lace are all effective ways to elevate an outfit.
Top Textured Picks from the High Street
Scott highlights several affordable options. The M&S Cotton Rich Textured Midaxi Column Dress (£36) is described as 'proof that simple doesn’t have to mean boring' and is suitable for weekend brunches to garden parties. The New Look Dark Brown Woven Slouch Grab Clutch (£24.99) features a woven finish and relaxed shape that 'instantly makes an outfit feel more considered.' The River Island Yellow Lace Trim Asymmetric T-Shirt (£36) offers a fresh alternative to a classic tee with delicate lace trims.
Oliver Bonas Farley Red Raffia Semi-Circle Statement Earrings (£18) bring a vibrant pop of colour and texture, while the H&M Short-Sleeved Crochet-Look Shirt (£27.99) taps into the continuing crochet trend. Primark's Strappy Crochet Flower Heeled Sandals (£20) are a subtle yet standout choice for head-to-toe texture. Tu at Sainsburys Cream Lace Midaxi Skirt (£24) proves why lace remains a sought-after texture, offering instant elegance.
Next's Green/Brown Greek Print Smocked Slash Neck Short Sleeve Top (£32) combines earthy tones with textured detailing, and the Anthropologie LyreBird Satin Lace-Trim Wide-Leg Trousers (£78) merge satin and lace for a luxurious feel. ASOS Design Lace Sequin Bandeau Mini Dress With Scarf Detail in Lime (£38) is described as playful, bold, and trendy for summer occasionwear. Finally, the Mango Braided Backless Ballerina Flat (£49.99) offers a seasonal update on the ballet flat trend with woven texture.
How to Style Textured Pieces
Scott advises that texture can be incorporated in simple ways, such as a pair of crochet mules or a woven bag, or by embracing full lace looks. The key is to choose pieces that add visual interest without overwhelming the outfit. For example, the M&S column dress works as an effortless summer staple, while the lace-trimmed trousers from Anthropologie are perfect for dressing up warm-weather evenings.
