Vintage fashion is the ideal starting point for a garden-inspired summer outfit. Going back to the 1930s and 40s we discover variations on delicate and petite floral prints on dresses with either a slim, body-skimming silhouette or a more structured, fitted shape.

In the 30s, bias cut long line gowns in silks and chiffons were most popular for special occasions, and these styles are enjoying a resurgence of popularity now, with slip dresses and clingy satin skirts to be found in the summer ranges of many mainstream brands and stores.

Stylised representations of everything from a daisy to a tulip make a real impact on a summer dress and suit most figures, as long as you pick one from your favourite colour palette and make sure the focal points in the print fall at a flattering position on the body – or even a point which you actually want to highlight if you are lucky enough to have body-positive feelings due to the summer sun and uplifting holiday mood!

If you do have any issues with the potential visibility of lumps, bumps and irregularities – which affect most women after a certain age – then invest in a body-smoothing skin-coloured slip to wear underneath your dress. It doesn’t have to be made of tight, clingy lycra or polyester, as that would spoil the pleasure of wearing a cool and floaty summer dress. A simple cotton mix slip worn under your dress will give the impression of lean lines and unobstructed curves, if worn with good posture and a confident attitude!

1940s summer dresses tended towards delicate floral prints and began to take on more structured shapes than their 1930s predecessors. The shortage of fabric due to the war effort meant that the tea dresses of the early years of the decade were slim but waisted, and did not feature the floaty sleeves or lengthier skirts of the 30s.

This look moved on in the ’50s when we saw wider, longer and often circular skirts with more closely fitted bodices, and prints diversified into still-life and scenery, rather than concentrating on the more established florals of earlier decades. Bold rose prints in strong or soft-focus colours were still popular too. Floral effects were also often achieved through texture rather than print, with focus on jacquards and brocade fabrics.

By the 1960s, Mary Quant led the way with her iconic daisy logo, and florals become larger, graphic and neon bright. I spotted a fantastic pair of flared, floral cotton slacks at the pop-up shop at Ella’s Hair Salon in Bath Road, Leckhampton, which were so eye-catching they would not have looked out of place framed on an art gallery wall! Incidentally, this excellent pop-up should be happening again later in the summer, showcasing the work of several local craftspeople, as well as lots of upcycled and customised pre-loved fashion, so keep an eye out and don’t miss it.

Another great way of incorporating fabulous florals into your wardrobe is through your accessories or jewellery. I recently acquired a necklace from the delightful Betty and Violet vintage boutique in the equally beautiful village of Broadway. The piece, which was produced in the 1970s or 80s, actually references the style of the 1930s and 40s, with a pale pink, blue and green enamel posy of flowers at its centre. Perfect for pairing with a plain dress or top, but if the colours blend and compliment each other, a decorative item like this can be equally striking with a floral print or even a spotted or striped outfit.

Now is the time to pile on the colour and print and make a summer statement with your own unique vintage style.