It is no secret that Bristol’s eclectic personality is widely built on its music and arts culture, though it is the creativity of the fabulous people who live here that makes Bristol what it is. As the best season of the year creeps upon us, however reluctantly, I am reminded that whilst this is an inspiringly arty place to be, it is certainly a stylish one too.

It was obvious, when trawling the streets in my style-hungry quest for Bristol’s best dressed, that dressing for an English summer day is no easy feat. Whilst some had faith in the forecasts, ditching tights and cardigans for summer dresses and gladiators, others took a more realistic approach.

More often than not Bristol’s style tribe opted for light layers, leggings and summer jackets. Each of the different looks was a refreshing take on dressing for summer as the style conscious among us clung to their quirks. The stylish elite are resisting the urge to strip down, a trend adopted every year by the sun worshiping masses, and have risked potential t-shirt tans all in the name of fashion.

I think I can declare that the summer of 2009 is a time for scrapping stereotypes and confirming Bristol’s innate uniqueness by wearing whatever you like!

Lara Angol