‘Easy elegance’ – Michelle Keegan showcases sun-soaked summer collection

“A denim skirt, fake Burberry tights, patent flats, and a white Nike hoodie,” she recalls, when quizzed about her more questionable teenage outfits. “Why my mum let me leave the house like that, I don’t know!” she laughs, speaking from her elegant Essex home.

These days, fashion faux pas are a distant memory. The Coronation Street alumnus is not only at the top of her game style-wise — she’s also embracing a major new chapter. In March, she and husband Mark Wright, welcomed their first child, Palma Elizabeth Wright, into the world and the star is relishing her role as a new mum.

But even amid the sleep-deprived chaos of new motherhood, the starlet hasn’t missed a beat. Her just-launched 44-piece summer collection for Very.ie is her most sun-soaked and swoon-worthy to date. “We were planning it back at Christmas,” reveals the fashion icon excitedly. “We look at catwalk trends, colours, fabrics — and then create pieces that work in real life. That’s always the goal.”

This season, that goal translates to breezy crochet co-ords, sheer knits, linen separates, and that one strapless yellow maxi dress that’s already poised to sell out. “It’s just so easy,” says the down-to-earth star. “With a tan, some flip-flops, a little bag — you’re done. I’m also obsessed with this oatmeal linen trouser set — it comes with a crochet boob tube. It’s that easy elegance I always go for.”

The challenge was creating a range that appealed to everyone, but as usual, the Stockport-born actress has nailed the brief with day-to-night styling to pieces that suit every age. “My cousin’s 16 and wears the range, and so does my mum. That’s what I love about it,” she says, adding: “We’ve designed it with everyone in mind.”

The Ten Pound Poms star has also undergone a style evolution, truly leaning into what feels good. Gone are the days of fast fashion splurges; now, it’s all about a carefully curated capsule wardrobe. “Wide-leg trousers, great jeans, basic tops — then I elevate it with accessories, a jacket, a belt. I feel comfortable in my own skin and I know what suits me. I don’t follow trends blindly anymore — I just wear what makes me feel good,” Michelle says.

Asked to describe her own personal style, the actress says: “Simple, comfortable, and feminine. I used to cha

Accessibility, she insists, is also key. “I’ve never been someone who’s into full designer looks,” she says. “I have a few designer bags I’ve collected over time, but honestly, I’m a high street girl. I always have been.”

Whether she’s dressed down in a tracksuit and topknot – could we love her any more?— or dressed for awards season in floor-grazing gowns and statement earrings, the star’s authenticity is a breath of fresh air. “At home it’s all about comfort,” she admits. “I need something I can lounge in — but also throw on trainers and run to the shop.”

Even as she juggles acting, designing, and nappy changes, the star of Netflix smash hit Fool Me Once remains as authentic and grounded as ever.

“I wouldn’t call myself a style icon,” she says modestly, “but it honestly means the world to see people wearing the collection. I spot it on the street all the time — and sometimes I’ll ask for a photo! I get so excited.”

As for her own fashion muse? “Rosie Huntington-Whiteley — she’s the dream. Everything she wears is just timeless. So classic,” she gushes. Much like Michelle herself, then.

You can shop the full collection now which is available exclusively at Very.ie