Cover Slay the style game with our August lookbook. From left: Roberto Cavalli dress, Louis Vuitton outfit, Mugler shoes, Etro outfit, Mr Porter outfit

Rev up your style with our monthly lookbook series. Get ready to win the fashion game as we curate the wildest animal prints, bag charms, mesh shoes, not-too-short shorts and more

Fashion is an ever-changing game, and it’s no easy task to stay ahead of it every single time. But fret not, Tatler has got you covered with our monthly lookbook, which gives you a thematic selection of season-specific looks, of course, curated from tip to toe.

Summer might be coming to an end, but we’re not ready to say goodbye to our summer wardrobe just yet. August is our favourite month for fashion – we’re still enjoying our summery outfits, but we’re already looking forward to prepping our back-to-school looks. This season is full of exciting trends, animal prints are back with a roar and not-too-short shorts are ruling the workwear scene.

Join us as we explore the best trends for the back-to-school season, from styling python print to embracing the sailor style.

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(Cat)walk on the wild side

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Above Roberto Cavalli outfit
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Above Blumarine outfit
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Above Jacquemus coat
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Above The Attico boot, Harris Reed x Missoma brooch, Balenciaga bag, Saint Laurent bracelet

Animal print is back with a vengeance. We’ve seen python boots strutting down the catwalk, leopard dresses stealing the spotlight and zebra coats making a statement. This season, whether you add a touch of ferocity with a pair of The Attico boots, give your LBD a fierce upgrade or go full jungle queen with a (faux) furry Stella McCartney coat, it’s time to embrace the untamed. 

Back in the habit

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Above Lanvin outfit
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Above Etro outfit
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Above A.W.A.K.E. Mode top, Ami earrings, Christian Louboutin Bag, The Garment pants, Jil Sander shoes
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Above Bottega Veneta outfit

Even years after you leave school, there’s something about August that feels like you're prepping for a new term. Relive those back-to-school vibes with a work wardrobe update that will put a spring in your step: power suits are back, and we’ve got our eye on outfits from the likes of Versace, Victoria Beckham and Courrèges. These suits prove you mean business.

Riviera chic

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Above Mr Porter outfit
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Above Dior outfit
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Above Marni sunglasses, Givenchy shoe, Dries Van Noten suit, Zegna tie
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Above Balenciaga necklace, Carla Zampatti dress, Jimmy Choo shoe, Max Mara Weekend bag

The classic Riviera look, whether French or Italian, is cool yet regal, polished yet party-ready. Even if your late summer travel plans are more Krabi than Cannes or Penang than Portofino, channel A-list energy in elegant florals, bold prints or suave separates—Aperol spritz optional.

Not-too-short shorts

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Above Chanel outfit
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Above Thom Browne outfit
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Above High Sport top, Marc Jacobs earrings, Haikure bermuda shorts, Paris Texas boots
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Above Jacquemus hat, Miu Miu sunglasses, Dolce & Gabbana bag

It’s too sticky for trousers, and not everyone’s into dresses (especially those without pockets), but we have the solution: Bermuda shorts. Think of them as the ideal summer uniform—perfect for picnics in the park, evening drinks or even the office. Pair them with a graphic tee and trainers for a relaxed look or dress them up with a blouse and boyish flats or killer heels.

Just hang on

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Above Balenciaga bag
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Above Balenciaga bag
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Above Givenchy bag, Etro bag charm, Loewe bag charm, Marc Jacobs bag charm
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Above Prada bag charm, Dior bag charm, Fendi bag, Fendi bag charm, Miu Miu bag charm

Finding a new favourite handbag is always a thrill, but if your household complains that your collection is taking up too much space, there is another way to update what you already own. Bag charms come in so many shapes, colours and designs—from Dior’s mini charm bracelet to Balenciaga’s mini Le Cagole and Fendi’s Nano Baguette—that you can create a new look every day. Just be sure to bag some drawer space for your micro collection.

Ship shape

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Above Louis Vuitton outfit
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Above Louis Vuitton outfit
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Above Celine sweater, Dsquared2 bracelet, Dior bermuda shorts, Dolce & Gabbana shoes
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Above Ferragamo bracelet, Balmain jacket, Maison Margiela shoe

Ahoy! Louis Vuitton’s pre-fall menswear collection brought a wave of nautical style to the fore. Whether you’re managing to spend time by the coast this summer or remain city-bound, this trend will ensure you are classically elegant, whether your look involves a subtle nod—deck shoes, sailor hats—or full-on sailor, with an iconic marinière, or Breton top, à la Jean Paul Gaultier or Balmain.

Keep it cool

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Above Mugler shoes
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Above Mugler shoe
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Above Amina Muaddi shoe, Bottega Veneta shoe, 3.1 Phillip Lim shoe, Alaïa shoe
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Above Alaïa shoes

Everyone’s wearing mesh shoes this summer—they’re the cool, comfortable, ready-for anything footwear that’s got everyone talking. Whether you prefer airy flats or chic heels, there’s a style for you—just make sure you keep your nail salon appointments because there’s no hiding less-than pretty pedicures.

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Alix Lefebvre was the Assistant Manager of VIP Relations & Styling Coordinator at Tatler Hong Kong. Hailing from France, she has a wealth of experience in fashion from across Europe and Asia. When she’s not busy mingling at events, you’ll find her soaking up the energetic atmosphere of Hong Kong or planning her next trip.