Style story: Into the blue

Remember Victoria Beckham in that Ming vase-inspired Cavalli gown at Elton John's annual White Tie and Tiara Ball back in 2005? Ahh, how we swooned. And why? Because there's just something so fresh and summery about the timeless pairing of blue and white.

Think whitewashed Greek fishing villages nestling under a perfect cobalt sky, and scones and jam served on your mum's best Wedgewood tea set - it's quite the globe-trotting, historically steeped, summer-perfect style stalwart. And there's barely a collection this season that wasn't inspired by the elegant colour coupling.

From Nina Ricci, Christopher Kane, Stella McCartney, Jil Sander and Chanel, to Erdem, Dior, Loewe, Alexander Wang, Peter Pilotto, Marni and Jonathan Saunders, blue and white patterns were everywhere, taking inspiration from traditional vintage florals, antique paintings and porcelains to futuristic digital prints. Cool, calm and sophisticated, it's an instant summer style refresher. Delish!

Style notes: How to wear blue and white

If black and white is sleek and edgy, blue and white is its fun-loving younger sister. Sweet, fresh and effortless, it's a fashion breath of fresh air when the mercury rises - think of it as sartorial air conditioning. 

Blue and white florals are a timeless choice, and supremely feminine. Combined with a classic Fifties silhouette, roses, bluebells, forget-me-nots and hydrangea prints offset against bright-white cottons and floaty chiffons are romantic, delicate and infinitely wearable for all ages. 

Not into floaty and feminine? Peter Pilotto and Stella McCartney's dazzling digital prints and cutting-edge fabrics make for a sleek and sporty take on über-foxy eveningwear. 

Mix and match your blue prints for modern cool - try spots or stripes with graphic digitals, or classic porcelain pattern with animal or tribal prints. 

Avoid the chintzy vibe by layering pieces of differing blue tones, or adding a pop of vivid colour to a printed suit, à la Solange. A skinny belt, vibrant heel or clashing bag adds instant oomph.