Proving practicality doesn’t have to mean zero fun, think of Dilly’s family-friendly edit as your one-stop summer shop
Dilly Carter has become the nation's go-to for practical, straight-talking advice when it comes to home organisation. She actually delivers on turning chaos into calm – just watch her on BBC One’s Sort Your Life Out to see the magic happen in real time. So as the holiday silly season approaches, who better to call on for some much needed curation than the effortlessly stylish Dilly. Here she picks her and daughter Nelly's summer must-haves – expect one-and-done dresses, timeless picnic essentials and some handy storage ideas.
‘A classic picnic blanket is a must – and classic picnic colours mean it will never go out of fashion. It’s neat and rolls up beautifully, saving space.’
‘I love the simplicity of a block-colour dress – it does all the talking so you can throw it on with no effort.’
‘These trainers work with any and everything for kids all summer long – even when they're not pristine, they're still cool.’
‘This dress is gorgeous in both colours. It’s so simple and stylish and could be worn with trainers as easily as a clog or wedge. The khaki gives it that casual summer edge and black could be worn all year round (In fact, both could be!).’
‘Is it even a picnic if there’s no gingham? Outdoor dining is essential for summer and a chic, organised basket is a must for those long summer lunches in the park with family and friends.’
‘I LOVE a drop-hem dress but, for me, anything in animal print is an easy win – simple, cool and effortless.’
‘I love a simple denim dress but the corduroy gives it an edge. It’s effortlessly cool without trying too hard. And, of course, with cycling shorts underneath, handstands are no problem!’
‘These trousers are super cool for kids who love to move but who you want to look stylish, too.’
‘This dress is such a classic style and works for casual as well as dressy. For Nelly, it’s simple and flows – so it doesn’t restrict her movement to run, jump or skip!’
‘A boxy T-shirt is the classic summer staple to go with anything. This design comes in other colours but I love a white tee for Nelly. It’s so easy to wear.’
‘Nelly is at an age where she loves to draw/write and journal about every activity we do as a family, which I love and encourage as it means she is enjoying making new memories.’
‘I use these and recommend them to everyone. The Home Edit curated collection is a must for any organised home.’