Denim in this heatwave might not be your first thought but, and stick with me here, there's logic to the madness. When Aligne announces its extremely sought-after summer sale - and it includes up to 40% off its cult denim pieces - it's far better to ponder the logistics of wearing denim in June once you've added it to your basket. Or, (and this may be the more brutal truth) it might be time to gently remind you that this mini heatwave is (most likely) our British summer and it'll be back to a denim jacket and jeans by next week.
In just five years, Aligne has carved itself quite a niche when it comes to wardrobe essentials, and the London-born brand has become a dependable (and somewhat under-the-radar) name in conscious fashion. Its Daphne Blazer remains firmly in the social media hall of fame, a viral style that cemented Aligne's tailoring credentials. Meanwhile, its outerwear earned celebrity fans like Katie Holmes, who was spotted wearing the chartreuse Stella Coat last year. But, beyond tailoring, it's Aligne's denim that really stands out as an everyday favourite - particularly when there are hefty discounts involved.
On sale
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Aligne's denim jacket is one of the best on the high street - even without its massive discount. A style that will stand the test of the seasons (its collarless design means it can be paired with both midi dresses and jeans), as well as the test of time.
I've scrolled through Aligne's summer sale to find the standout pieces worth investing in, and, while there's plenty of temptation across all categories, it's, of course, the denim section that deserves highlighting. The Collarless Denim Jacket, for example, is a cooler take on its collared cousin, which means it can be thrown on over a floral midi dress or buttoned up with a mini skirt. Plus, the jacket is thicker than a cardigan but thinner than a puffer or wool coat, so it's the sort of jacket you'll be able to wear when the nights start to feel oddly cooler again.
£30 off
Aligne aligne.co
As well as Aligne's denim jacket offerings, the brand has some cool denim dresses, too. This style in particular is a good one to have in your wardrobe, and with its button-down front, mini length and front patch pockets, it can be worn on its own or layered up.
Denim dresses are another way to integrate the fabric into your summer wardrobe - even if (like me) you had previously ruled it out for being too structured or hot. Aligne's Luella Denim Mini Dress puts my previous apprehension to shame with its soft and gently flared structure, preppy front pockets and crew neck - and, it's a dress that can be polished with a simple kitten heel for a last-minute dinner plan.
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An easy way to add texture and interest to an outfit without feeling like you're overheating in denim is to invest in a good denim waistcoat - like the Jate style from Aligne. Wear on its own paired with wide-leg trousers and chunky sandals, or with a t-shirt layered underneath.
It wouldn't be an Aligne sale without including an excellent waistcoat, and the Jate Denim Wrap Waistcoat is a more relaxed take on the Daphne Blazer, featuring that iconic buttoned front, yet it can be dressed up with a pair of wide leg trousers and kitten heels, or down with a pair of capri pants and colourful Adidas trainers. The Aligne sale doesn't stop there, either. There are plenty of other pieces worth investing in. Shop the best of the Aligne summer sale below.
Shop: The Best Of The Aligne Summer Sale
On sale
Aligne aligne.co
If you're on the hunt for a summer dress that will keep you cool as well as keep you looking cool, this Aligne dress is an excellent choice. Finished with black statement buttons, a dropped waist and side seam pockets (!), style the dress with ballet flats and a shoulder bag.
30% off
Aligne aligne.co
This dress is part of Aligne's collection with Elizabeth Day, which was inspired by Cher's wardrobe from the iconic film Clueless. Its Cherish Midi Dress features a fitted waist that falls into a pleated skirt, chest patch pockets and a flattering slim fit.
24% off
Aligne aligne.co
The Gabriella dress is a staple for those wanting to inject a bit of fun into a summer wardrobe, without being too over-the-top. The blue striped print, shirt collar and front zip make it perfect for wearing to the office, and then to after-work drinks with a simple change of shoe.
On sale
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Polo shirts have done somewhat of a 360 this year as they shed the rugby boy stereotype and entered the wardrobe of fashion people in the know. This Aligne style is most definitely one of the best, with its bright blue and butter yellow colourway and preppy button collar.
Save £40
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Inspired by the brand's best-selling Leo waistcoat, the Leah dress features a button-up front, crew neck and adjustable back buckle to give you that cinched waist. Linen is also a non-negotiable in my summer wardrobe, so this dress gives you the best of both worlds and requires minimal styling.
On sale
Aligne aligne.co
A white dress in the summer is just about as integral as a little black dress in the winter. If you're not sure which white dress style to go for, this Aligne one is both easy and breezy, with lace-up detailing at the neck, a boxy fit and a classic shirt collar.
Save £30
Aligne aligne.co
A great pair of jeans forms the crux of most of our wardrobes, and there's no better time to invest in quality denim than when it's on sale. Barrel jeans have had quite the year, and there's no sign of the trend slowing down, so if you're looking to dip your toe in the trend, try this pair, with a slim fit and subtle barrel style.
Main image credit: Instagram/@savannahgowarty
Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia, where she tracks down viral pieces and is as comfortable navigating the M&S new-in page as she is dissecting the latest celebrity look. When not writing, shopping or at Reformer Pilates (a cliché but she's hooked), Gemma will likely be planning her next holiday (and what she's going to wear). For a glimpse into said travels, outfit inspo and life as a journalist, follow her on Instagram or TikTok.