As soon as the weather turns, my priority is to lighten my look. While the sun is shining now, it’s very much still cashmere jumper and jeans weather. So, to get this look ready for the new season, add a khaki trench in place of your winter coat and a woven basket bag instead of your heavy leather tote to give an instant lift to your day-to-day look.

With the arrival of proper summer, I dress exclusively in breezy cottons and linens. These simple lightweight looks are just crying out for accessories with a softer structure and a warmer hue to complement them. Obviously, straw basket bags are an option and have been a huge trend for the past few years, inspired in part by Jane Birkin and the timeless handmade versions that epitomise French-girl chic. Now every fashion house from Jacquemus to Loewe has its own version. But the woven leather tote is the modern city alternative: the basket bag 2.0, if you like.

It is smart enough for work – worn with wide-leg trousers – yet relaxed enough for weekend dressing – with a cool track top, denim and suede Birkenstocks. I’ve even paired mine with a silk dress, charm necklace and delicate flat sandals for an al fresco evening out.

I’ve rounded up the three best styles to invest in for instant summer cool. Buy now and you’ll be wearing this piece on repeat until October and, if you’re anything like me, pulling it out joyfully next spring.

Woven leather bags reign supreme this season: shop our fashion director’s top picks here