I popped into Desray last week and just couldn’t resist picking up a few key pieces for summer. As most of you know, I believe it’s so important to support our wonderfully creative local designers. Mostly, the quality of their merchandise is far superior to mass market international labels and, because the clothing is locally produced, it boosts our economy. All the clothing items featured in this post are currently in store.

The Tassel Kaftan Dress R1050

desray-blue-dress

I love a kaftan style dress from summer because you can wear them in so many different ways. I love the blue and white print on this one, and the tassel details on the hem. One could either throw this over your bikini for a quick cover up, or pair it with a pair of espadrilles (check out local brand www.espadril.co.za) a brown leather cross body bag and a denim jacket for more of an everyday look.

The Boyfriend Shirt R950 (BUY HERE)

desray-blue-shirt

This shirt really is a wardrobe essential, because you can style it in a multitude of ways. I wore mine just the other day with white slim fit Capri trousers and my Converse All Stars for a Sunday lunch. To smarten it up, pair it with a pencil skirt or smart trousers and heels. Heck, you could even throw it over your bikini too. It really is a wardrobe must-have.

The Pajama Style Trouser R740

desray-trousers

Of all the items I’m blogging about today, these super soft, slightly sheer trousers are my favourite. The fabric feels beautifully silky (even though they’re not silk) and I love the subtle print. But really, it’s the bold and colourful contrasting fabric that really makes them stand out. I would wear them with a simple white vest and leather flats for day, or style them with a silk cammy in either cream or black and a pair of strappy heels for evening.

The Denim Skirt R730

desray-mini

I’ve been on the lookout for the perfect denim skirt for a while now and was so excited when I spotted this one. I love the slightly worn look of the hem, and think the denim blue colour is spot on trend. Again, this is a piece you can wear with just about anything. Pair it with a white vest and flats for a super casual look. Make it office appropriate with a smart shirt, blazer and heels. For the cooler months, pair it with a chunky knit, tights and boots. Really, like with a pair of denim jeans, the outfit possibilities are endless.

The Summer Dress R890

desray-summer-dress

I do love to throw on a loose, comfortable and billowy dress when the temperature soars. The simple yet stylish blue paisley pattern of this one, with its contrasting hem that has hints of red immediately caught my eye. It does needs to be worn with a slip underneath, as it’s slightly see-through. I bought (THIS SLIP) for R300 from Country Road last year and have worn it A LOT – if you’re looking for a neutral coloured slip, this is the one. I would pair this dress with a denim jacket and wedge heels for a casual lunch with friends. To give it a smarter vibe, I think a navy single-breasted jacket and sexy, strappy high heels would be all that’s needed.

Desray also recently launched their online shopping site www.desray.co.za – go take a look at the rest of their amazing clothing.

You’ll find Desray stores in Brooklyn Mall (Pretoria), Franschhoek, Dainfern (JHB), The Gardens Centre (CT), Newlands (CT), Willowbridge (CT) and Menlyn Maine (Pretoria).