Summer is finally here and with it comes the prospect of days spent lazing in the garden, barbecuing with friends and enjoying Chelsea’s best alfresco dining spots (have you visited Summer on the Square yet?), not to mention the other exciting happenings in the area. 

This being England, it might not be all blue skies, of course, but we’ll be outside enjoying the longer nights and warmer days, nonetheless. And with that, here are all the essentials from Sloane Street’s boutiques for a wonderful summer season, whatever the weather.

Wave goodbye to makeshift potting stations and tools unfit for purpose, because the latest iteration of Anya Hindmarch’s ever-changing Village Hall is the Pont St Garden Centre, stocked with everything you need for a very stylish season in the garden. There is everything from gardening gloves and sunflower seeds to houseplants – for those whose growing space is limited to the windowsill – and a sweet gardening tote that will double as a carry-all when the season ends. Shovelling soil never looked so cool.

Heading to the Serpentine Lido? Or are you sunbathing on the balcony? Either way, don’t overlook the importance of great swimwear. If, on the other hand, you find yourself in a sudden downpour, then you won’t regret having carried Pickett‘s handmade “Whangee Crook” umbrella, which doubles as a sun shield. Loro Piana‘s bright Joaquin jacket will also do the trick for rainy days because it’s lightweight, windproof and water-resistant, thanks to the brand’s proprietary Storm System treatment and cashmere lining.

Summer also calls for an excellent events wardrobe, what with all the wedding, party and sporting invitations that have likely dropped onto your doormat. Thankfully, the expert stylists behind Wardrobe ICONS have curated their favourite items from Sloane Street, which you can read about here.

It almost goes without saying that you’ll need sunglasses, too, and Balenciaga is delivering the most on-trend of the season with its rectangular “Dynasty” frames. Elsewhere, Oliver Peoples‘ range includes something to suit every face shape. The brand has also recently collaborated with its Sloane Street neighbour Brunello Cucinelli on a predictably refined collection.

It wouldn’t be summer without a picnic or two, so do yours in style with a well-equipped picnic basket from Anya Hindmarch, decorated with signature eye motifs. Also from Anya, this recycled-nylon glass holder is the chicest way to keep hold of your rosé while you mingle. If you’d rather everything be assembled for you, then use Granger & Co.‘s click-and-collect service and pop to Mother Vine for a tipple, or pick up Harvey Nichols‘ spring gift box, which is packed with a bottle of prosecco, crackers, biscuits and fudge. And if you’re staying at Beaverbrook Town House, then be sure to take up their picnic service, which offers guests a key to the exclusive Cadogan Gardens and a pre-packed hamper (including Japanese cuisine, champagne and a blanket), for all you need to enjoy a relaxing afternoon is one of London’s most beautiful private spaces.

Everyone loves a garden party, but the prospect of throwing one can seem a little daunting. Worry not, though, because a few small touches really make the difference here, and you can always organise catering from the likes of Holy Carrot. 

Emilia Wickstead‘s floral-print linen tablecloth is a stylish starting point, and David Mellor‘s three-tier cake stand will look gorgeous atop it. Don’t forget some sturdy tumblers, a few deck chairs and some enclosed candle holders to light your space when the sun goes down. All are available at Peter Jones, which also has a great range of barbecues and pizza ovens, if you’re so inclined.

A good soundtrack is the heart of a buzzing party, but if your home stereo doesn’t reach outside (or perhaps you’re dancing in the park), then invest in a high-quality speaker to keep the vibe going wherever you are. 

Berluti has partnered with Bang & Olufsen to create a portable Bluetooth iteration that is waterproof, dustproof and playable for 18 hours before it needs recharging. You’ll find an excellent selection at Peter Jones, too, which includes a sleek silver device from sound expert Bose (also water-resistant) and a retro-inspired one from Roberts, which will fit right in on a checked picnic blanket.

Little ones on their school holidays demand lots of entertainment, so why not set them up with a mini tea party alongside your garden festivities? If you’re more concerned with keeping them active, then Christian Dior‘s “Dioriviera” skateboard will be just the ticket, as will Louis Vuitton‘s ping-pong set, or Versace‘s baroque printed football. What’s more, each is so stylish that you’ll be more inclined to leave them out on display than to hide them in the toy cupboard.