Summer in London is like nowhere else—sunny (ish) days filled with rooftop cocktails, spontaneous coast trips, and long afternoons in the city’s leafy parks. Whether you’re staying local or escaping for a weekend break, the right essentials make all the difference.
From fashion fixes to four-wheeled freedom, here’s our curated list of the top 10 summer must-haves to keep your style sharp, your tech charged, and your adventures seamless.
1. The Ultimate City Car: The Lexus LBX
Let’s start with the smartest way to get around town this summer: the Lexus LBX. Compact and effortlessly stylish, this self-charging hybrid is designed for urban life without compromise. Its smooth, silent drive makes it ideal for weaving through London’s busier boroughs, while ULEZ compliance ensures you can travel freely across the city without extra charges.
Despite its compact frame, the LBX offers a surprisingly spacious boot—perfect for a weekend bag, picnic kit, or even your dog. Inside, you’ll find a calm, comfortable cabin with premium Lexus finishes, wireless Apple CarPlay, ambient lighting in over 50 shades, and a seriously impressive sound system.
Whether you’re darting through Dalston or heading to the coast, the LBX makes every journey feel like a treat.
2. SPF That Works (and Looks Good in Your Bag)
London weather may be unpredictable, but UV rays are not. A reliable SPF is a year-round must, but especially during summer. We love Ultra Violette’s Supreme Screen SPF 50+ Hydrating Primer—lightweight, makeup-friendly, and designed to leave zero white cast.
Toss it in your bag and apply on the go, whether you’re lounging in Hyde Park or sipping iced oat lattes along the South Bank.
3. A Crisp White Shirt
The MVP of any summer wardrobe? A well-cut white shirt. Oversized, breathable, and endlessly versatile, it works as a beach cover-up, brunch look, or layering piece for cooler evenings.
Go for natural fabrics like cotton or linen for comfort and breathability. COS, Arket, and With Nothing Underneath are your best bets for elevated basics.
4. Statement Sunglasses
London’s fashion crowd doesn’t hold back when it comes to eyewear. This season, it’s all about retro shapes—oval frames, tinted lenses, and Y2K-inspired wraparounds.
For a sustainable pick, check out Pala Eyewear. Each purchase supports eye-care projects across Africa, so your style makes a positive impact too.
5. A Picnic Kit, the London Way
No British summer is complete without a park picnic. Pack smart:
- A lightweight, foldable blanket
- A portable cooler (try Yeti or The White Company)
- Reusable cutlery and tumblers
- A chilled bottle of kombucha or rosé
- Fancy snacks from M&S Food or your local deli
Load it into the Lexus LBX’s boot and head to Hampstead Heath, Greenwich Park, or Richmond for a laid-back afternoon with views.
6. A Chic Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated in style with a bottle that actually keeps your drink cold. We’re fans of Chilly’s, S’well, and Frank Green—all known for their insulated, leak-proof designs.
Pick one in a fun pastel or metallic tone to match your summer vibe—and say goodbye to single-use plastic for good.
7. A Fresh Summer Fragrance
Swap your winter scent for something breezy and light. Our summer favourites include:
- Diptyque Philosykos – green fig and woody notes
- Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt – fresh, mineral, beachy
- Glossier You – soft, genderless, and skin-like
Spritz on pulse points before heading out, or freshen up your LBX interior for a subtle luxe touch while you drive.
8. A Hands-Free Crossbody Bag
In a city where you’re constantly on the move—cycling to brunch, squeezing onto the Tube, navigating summer festivals—a crossbody bag is essential.
Opt for compact, structured styles that hold your phone, SPF, and lip balm without weighing you down. Look to A.P.C. for options that are both practical and polished.
9. A Weekend Escape Plan
Summer isn’t just about city life—it’s also your chance to get out of it. Thanks to the Lexus LBX’s self-charging hybrid engine and comfortable ride, weekend getaways are easier than ever.
Here are three under-two-hour destinations to add to your radar:
- Camber Sands – wind-swept beaches and coastal walks
- Margate – art galleries, vintage shopping, and fish & chips
- The Cotswolds – charming villages, pubs with gardens, and scenic drives
Just set your playlist, hit the road, and let the LBX handle the rest.
10. A Summer Soundtrack
What’s summer without the right music? Whether you’re driving windows-down through Soho or lounging on a picnic blanket, a good playlist sets the tone.
Some current favourites:
- Hot Girl Summer – for energy
- NTS Summer of Soul – for vibes
- Chilled Beats for Sunny Streets – for laid-back afternoons
Play it through the LBX’s immersive audio system, or take it with you on a portable speaker for your next park hang.
Final Thoughts
Summer in London is all about spontaneity—unexpected sunshine, last-minute plans, and squeezing the most out of every warm day. Whether you’re commuting across boroughs, planning coastal escapes, or simply enjoying the sunshine in your local park, having the right essentials makes all the difference.
From fashion-forward gear and smart skincare to a car that takes the stress out of summer travel, the key is blending style with practicality—and being ready for whatever the day throws at you.
Got a summer must-have we missed? Let us know @LDNFASHION on Instagram.
