W&H shopping edit: What to buy in May

Our May shopping edit brings you all the latest and the best buys in fashion this month, as recommended by our team of expert editors

Three picks from w&h's shopping edit in May, on a cream background with colorful graphics.
(Image credit: Future)

May is a month of fresh starts and exciting plans as the days get longer and lighter, and we start looking forward to a season of sunny days and warm weather.

As the weather starts to heat up, now's the time to shop the latest swimwear trends for 2023, grab the best sunglasses and fill our closet with new essentials for our spring capsule wardrobe

In our May shopping edit, we've included all of the spring and summer fashion trends of 2023 and brilliant buys we love that will help you get set for summer.  So once your heart is set on one of the best places to travel in 2023, get your holiday wardrobe ready with all of our favorite pieces in time for the summer season...

What to buy in May: The W&H shopping edit

Why you can trust Woman & Home Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

1. Ariat Round Up Square Toe Western Boots

1. Ariat Round Up Square Toe Western Boots

RRP: $169.95

If you’re keen to jump on the Coastal Cowgirl trend, you’ll need a pair of cowboy boots. These Ariat boots feature a squared toe, detailed contrasting stitching and a small heel, and the brown shade means they’re not so bold in color that they’ll only go with a couple of pieces. If you’re wondering how to wear cowboy boots, try pairing them with a floaty, printed dress or boyfriend jeans tucked in.


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2. Tailored Linen Trousers

RRP: $129

Finding pieces that suit summer weather while also feeling office-appropriate can be tricky, so we’re all over these tailored, lightweight linen trousers, with a relaxed fit and a high waist. These are the kind of trousers that can easily be taken from the office to canalside drinks or a pub garden in summer, as they’ll look great with a simple white tee and statement jewelry.


3. Chico's No-Iron Linen Tunic

3. Chico's No-Iron Linen Tunic

RRP: $99

If you're unsure what to wear in the heat,  linen is a light, breathable fabric everyone should have in their summer wardrobe. And this long sleeve Chico's linen tunic is a piece you can style with many outfits. Wear it open with a white tee and shorts for a more relaxed look, or style it with the best swimsuit for an elevated beach look. And no need to pull the iron out. This tunic is made of a wrinkle-free fabric.


4. MINKPINK Melody Printed Midi Skirt

4. MINKPINK Melody Printed Midi Skirt

RRP: $119

This midi skirt is the perfect fashion piece to add to your spring and summer wardrobe. We can see this with a chunky knit sweater and a pair of white trainers for a flirty streetwear look, or an oversized tee, if you’re wondering what to wear to a festival.


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5. Zenergy UPF Ruffle Sleeve Polo Dress

RRP: $67.13

Whether you're headed to the golf club or need a summer dress to throw on when you're in a rush, this is a comfortable yet stylish dress you'll want to wear every day. It has a slightly stretchy fabric that's also UPF protected. It comes in a pretty light blue and pink color, but if you want a more subtle color, it's also available in navy and black.


6. Sloggi Zero Feel Bralette

6. Sloggi Zero Feel Bralette

RRP: $38.50

When finding the best bras this summer, no matter your physique, every girl deserves to feel comfortable, supported, and confident. Approved by our fashion editor, the Sloggi Zero Feel Bralette is the best bra for back fat if you want something skin-like and comfortable. 


7. Belle Beach Tie Front Cover-Up

7. Belle Beach Tie Front Cover-Up

RRP: $62

Pack your beach bag with the best sunscreen and this vibrant, printed cover-up. This woven swimsuit cover-up comes in five prints and can be tied close or worn open to show off your bikini.


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8. Creaseless Hair Clips

RRP: $18

We love these cute hair clips from Anthropologie, which are available in a mix of pastel colors or darker, animal-print-style shades. The brass clips won’t leave creases in your hair, and the shiny accessories will catch the light to give an iridescent look.


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9. Matisse Platform Heel

RRP: $95

We're here for the platform heel trend. And these chunky sandals will complement all your summer looks. You can wear them with a casual dress or jeans and a blouse. These platform sandals feature a cute knot and come in three neutral colors to match most outfits or a bright summery yellow.


10. Zara High Rise Z1975 Straight Leg Jeans

10. Zara High Rise Z1975 Straight Leg Jeans

RRP: $45.90

The best Zara jeans are definitely on our May fashion wishlist. These high-waisted light wash jeans have the perfect amount of rips and distress, making them an excellent jean choice for the hot months ahead. 


11. Zenergy UPF Flutter Sleeve Tee

11. Zenergy UPF Flutter Sleeve Tee

RRP: $59.63

This white tee will be a stylish addition to a minimalist capsule wardrobe. Like the Chico's polo dress we included earlier, we're obsessed with the tee's slightly dramatic ruffle arms and sun-protected fabric. This V-neck shirt can be worn casually with jeans or dressed up with a skirt or slacks


12. Merrell Women's Antora 3 X Sweaty Betty

12. Merrell Women's Antora 3 X Sweaty Betty

RRP: $125

The latest collaboration from Merrell and Sweaty Betty isn't one to miss, given the hot pink twist and new technical features. 

The Antora is one of Merrell's best-selling trail running shoes for women, now complete in the latest model with a durable upper for over-foot protection and a springier midsole with foam strategically placed around the heel and forefoot for additional support. Ideal for navigating across potentially slippery and unstable terrain, whether in forests or in parks, they're the perfect summery addition to your fitness kit.


12. Cuddl Duds Wide Leg Flexwear V-Neck Jumpsuit

12. Cuddl Duds Wide Leg Flexwear V-Neck Jumpsuit

RRP: $41.12

Whether you're looking for a casual outfit to wear to brunch or deciding what to wear to a wedding, this flattering jumpsuit fits into both attires. This jumpsuit comes in three prints and three solid colors, but we're living for this vibrant pink. 


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13. Columbia Women’s Back Bowl™ Casual Fleece Jacket

RRP: $70

For those chillier spring evenings, there's nothing better than a fleece so the release of Columbia's new ICONS range is perfect timing. 

Our pick of the bunch is the super-soft Women's Back Bowl Back Bowl™ Casual Fleece Jacket in this bright purple and pink colorway, featuring hints of turquoise. Complete with pockets exactly where you need them, making this an ideal buy for the upcoming festival season as well, it's an excellent choice. 


14. Black Trim Straw Sun Hat

14. Black Trim Straw Sun Hat

RRP: $29.99

We’re obsessing over this fray brimmed straw hat. It’s the perfect stylish accessory to elevate your favorite maxi dress, swimsuit, and casual summer looks. The hat also features a black trim, making it easier to style with dressier outfits, like the best summer dresses.


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15. JoyLab French Terry Skort

RRP: $24

Target is home to many things, including the cutest athletic wear. This sporty yet stylish skirt and short combo is the perfect everyday piece you can mix and match with athletic tops or casual tees. And like many girls on TikTok, I was easily influenced to buy this drawstring skort with the matching cropped jacket. Of course, you can wear this skort to a gym session, but I’ve also been loving wearing it to run errands on warm days when I don’t feel like wearing jeans or a dress but still want to be cute.


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16. Silver Jeans Co. Sure Thing High-Rise Long Short

RRP: $58

If you're not a fan of short shorts, consider snagging these high-rise thigh-length shorts. Wear them casually with sandals or dress them up with wedges and a blouse.


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17. David Pher Printed Asymmetric Bodysuit 

RRP: $27.90

Asymmetric lines are a 2023 fashion trend we’re loving, and this one-shoulder Zara bodysuit is a personal favorite. From its unique colorway and prints to its comfortable mesh fabric to its asymmetric neckline, this Zara top is one to be added to your fashion wishlist. Zara says this bodysuit runs small, but I would love to note that I found it to be true to size.


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18. Neema Belt Bag

RRP: $29.99

For the fashionista who doesn't feel like carrying a purse, you can store your phone, wallet, and small personal items in this vibrantly printed fanny pack.  And if you don't want to wear it around the waist, you can adjust the straps and wear it as a crossbody.


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19. AE Snappy Stretch Baggy Cargo Jogger

RRP: $59.95

The Y2K cargo pants from the early 2000s have returned and are worn by many for a more comfortable and relaxed replacement for the best jeans. These American Eagle (AE)  cargos give you all the 90s and early 2000s feels. Like most AE jeans, these cargos are true to size, stretchy, and breathable. These cargos will become your favorite summer pants.


20. Dooney & Bourke Gretta Coated Cotton Editor's Tote

20. Dooney & Bourke Gretta Coated Cotton Editor's Tote

RRP: $331.20

Because of its roomy interior, the best tote bags can be used as a purse, a work bag, an overnight bag, and more. This classic Dooney & Bourke monogram bag is gorgeous to carry and spacious enough to store your laptop, a summer read, and personal items. The bag comes in six colors, but we love this off-white color. 


21. Tube Top Brami Dress

21. Tube Top Brami Dress

RRP: $68

Say goodbye to bra straps and unsupportive half bras and say hello to one of the best dresses with built-in bras. This strapless midi dress has built-in padding to lift and support your bust. We also love its ruched design that accentuates your curves and figure.


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22. Chico's Leather Platform Sneakers

RRP: $119

You can never go wrong with stylish white sneakers, especially when they're platform and leather. These Chico's exclusives will go perfectly with denim shorts, a casual dress, and jeans. 


23. Zara ZW Cropped Pocket Jacket

23. Zara ZW Cropped Pocket Jacket

RRP: $89.90

Looking for the best Zara spring buys? This trendy cargo jacket has the perfect thickness to keep you warm on those chilly spring mornings but is breathable enough to keep you cool throughout the day. It's the perfect neutral color to style with most outfits, making it a great addition to a capsule wardrobe.


24. Denim & Co. Active Regular Duo Stretch Printed Leggings

24. Denim & Co. Active Regular Duo Stretch Printed Leggings

RRP: $28.48

How cute and fun are these printed jersey leggings? The best leggings are comfortable to wear and support most lifestyles with their material and style, and according to reviews, these QVC best-sellers check off all the boxes. You can wear them to the gym while lounging around the house or running errands.


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25. Wild Fable Tiny Tank Top

RRP: $5

I recently bought this simple white tank on a whelm when shopping for a top to wear with my high-waisted jeans. Since then, I've found myself wearing it at least once a week. It's super comfortable and goes with literally everything. Plus, it's only $5 and feels and fits amazingly. 


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26. Green Seed Bead Tassel Earrings

RRP: $29.50

Bold jewelry is a great way to jazz up simple outfits and add to stylish, runway-worthy looks. These handmade green tassel earrings are vibrant, pretty, and the perfect summer accessory for the gal looking to add fun pieces to her jewelry box.


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27. Pure Love Tiger Baby Tee

RRP: $35

Urban Outfitters is known for its graphic tees and free-spirited style. This top-rated baby tee will become your go-to summer shirt. Style it with jeans, a denim skirt, or cargo pants for a relaxed and girly fit. 


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28. Kirks Folly Glitter Goddess Sunglasses

RRP: $83

Would this be a May shopping edit if we didn't include a pair of the best sunglasses? These one-of-a-kind glitter sunglasses have crystal accents that stand out against a shimmery gold base. You'll be turning heads beachside and pool side.


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29. Sabo Nyrobi Dress

RRP: $90

If you're on social media, you've probably seen gorgeous fashion pieces from Sabo Skirt down your timeline. This pretty-in-pink, flirty dress is perfect for brunch with the girls or for a day date with your partner. It can be worn up or off the shoulders, and its corset-like top is designed to contour and flatten your figure. We highly recommend snagging this dress, as it often sells out.


30. Zaful High Waisted Scalloped Bikini

30. Zaful High Waisted Scalloped Bikini

RRP: $31.99

With having to buy separate pieces or paying a pricey amount for one piece of fabric, swimsuit shopping can become quite expensive. Luckily, some of the best swimsuits on Amazon come in a set, and they're pretty affordable. This scalloped two-piece set comes in 36 vibrant colors and is constructed to elongate your shape and bring in your waist.


31. Skims Mid-Thigh Seamless Sculpting Shorts

31. Skims Mid-Thigh Seamless Sculpting Shorts

RRP: $36

Skims has some of the best shapewear that sculpts your body and gives you a natural-looking hourglass figure. These mid-thigh seamless shorts are the best anti chafing shorts that comfortably sculpts your natural figure while keeping your inner thighs from rubbing together. 


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32. Free People Oasis Midi Dress

RRP: $118

Let this dress be your fashion inspiration for your next vacation. It's gorgeous, vibrant in color, and has a flowy skirt. It's the perfect summer dress. Style it with strappy heels for date night or sneakers for a casual outing.


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33. J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Skirt

RRP: $89.50

This midi slip skirt should be in every girl's closet. Because of its neutral 'creige' color, you can style this skirt with almost any graphic tee or sweater in your wardrobe. This slip skirt comes in four other neutral colors and three vibrant summery colors.


34. Nana Jacquline Danielle Gloves

34. Nana Jacquline Danielle Gloves

RRP: $108

It doesn't get any more fashionable than a pair of fashion gloves to accessorize the best wedding guest dress or to wear to a dinner date. These lilac purple gloves fit the purple hues fashion color trend 2023, making you classy, stylish, and on-trend.


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35. Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

RRP: $38

The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L is the perfect everyday bag to snap around your waist as a fanny pack or wear across your chest as a crossbody. You can store your phone, wallet, keys, and small essentials in one zip. It's the perfect bag for walks at the park and while on-the-go


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36. Delicate Monogram Necklace

RRP: $38

Whether you're looking for a sweet personalized jewelry gift for your Taurus giftee or yourself, this gold monogram necklace is gorgeous, dainty, and a subtle way to accessorize your outfits.


37. Zara Draped Dress

37. Zara Draped Dress

RRP: $49.90

Look no further if you're searching for a stylish dress to hide your tummy. This beautiful red dress has an asymmetric cut and drapes across the body while accentuating the waist. Pair it with black heeled sandals and a leather jacket for a night out with friends, or style it with tights and closed-toe heels to work. 


38. Coach Mini Skinny Id Case with Floral Print

38. Coach Mini Skinny Id Case with Floral Print

RRP: $95

Whether you need a new wallet or you're shopping for the best 18th birthday gift, Secure your cards, individual keys, and other small items in this springy floral Coach Id case. This wallet is built to last with its polished pebbled leather construction. 


39. Jacquemus Le Grand Bambino

39. Jacquemus Le Grand Bambino

RRP: $905

We can't recommend a wallet without recommending one of the best designer crossbody bags. This bubble-gum pink Jacquemus purse is a cult favorite known for its extensive color options and small size. It's the perfect spring bag that'll be a pop of color to every outfit.


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40. A New Day Leon Slide Sandals

RRP: $19.99

I recently bought these square-toed sandals to change into after wearing heels at a wedding, and I was so surprised by the shoe's cushiony support and quality construction for just a $20 price tag. They've become my favorite sandals to wear casually or when I don't feel like heels. 


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41. Curvy Fit Shirt Dress with Lacing Back

RRP: $34.99

When it comes to clothes shopping for spring and summer, I'm big on comfortability and breathable fabrics that'll keep me cool, which is why this H&M curvy shirt dress is currently in my shopping cart. You get the oversized button-up shirt look but with a laced-up back that snatches and brings your waist in. 


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42. Faux Leather Star Studded Shorts

RRP: $34.40

If you have a summer concert coming up or need to re-up your party wardrobe, these high-waisted faux leather shorts are fun, unique, and the perfect going-out shorts. Style them with Doc Martens for an edgy look or cowboy boots for a western twist. 


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43. Zara Coin Choker

RRP: $22.90

Zara has some of the best statement jewelry pieces, such as this gold coin choker. Wear this with a white tank or a black dress to elevate your simple yet sleek looks. 


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44. Kitsch Eco-friendly Satin Wrapped Claw Clip

RRP: $9.60

The 90s claw clip has returned and is now one of the biggest hair accessories today. With temperatures steadily rising, this leopard-printed claw clip is a stylish way to keep your hair up and off your shoulders. I've recently seen this Kitsch claw clip at Ulta, and it's even cuter in person. 

Hannah Holway
Shopping writer

Hannah is the UK Shopping Writer for woman&home. As a shopping writer, Hannah has written on everything from period pants to wine subscriptions, and is especially interested in sustainable alternatives to well-known products, as well as books and homeware accessories. 

Before she joined the team at woman&home Hannah headed up the social media accounts for Wonderland in 2019, where she was also a Contributing Editor for the magazine’s sister titles. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hannah also explored evolving shopping trends at New York Magazine’s The Strategist UK, researching everything from face masks to status candles and even pens.