How many times have you found yourself replying, "Good, but hot," over the past few weeks when someone asks how you are? We're currently experiencing our second heatwave of the year, and with temperatures soaring well above the seasonal average, it feels as though we're settling into a new kind of British summer. It's only mid July, so there's every chance this weather rollercoaster will continue.
As hot days become less of an exception and more of the norm, I've started to rethink my summer wardrobe accordingly. That goes for office days, but especially when I have events to attend, where looking put-together is non-negotiable. Rather than scrambling to get dressed each morning, I now rely on a handful of tried-and-tested rules to help me stay cool - in two senses of the word.
Choose natural fabrics
Natural fibres are far more breathable than synthetics, and when temperatures soar, every little helps. Lightweight linen is one of my summer staples. I don't worry too much about creasing, it's part of the fabric's charm - and modern linen blends tend to wrinkle far less than they used to.
After years of not actually having any linen in my wardrobe this season it is full of the fabric. I have the With Nothing Underneath Sloane dress in red, also from the British brand the Blenheim dress in black, and, because I clearly have a type, a very similar - albeit slightly shorter - version from Jigsaw.
I also have a few pairs of linen drawstring trousers in different colours, as well as a Rails ankle-length white linen skirt that I wear with a matching tank for smarter days, and a lightweight t-shirt or vest when I don’t have any meetings in the diary. While it might seem counterintuitive, I actually prefer wearing loose, floaty pieces rather than exposing lots of skin when its hot. Relaxed silhouettes allow air to circulate making them feel surprisingly cool and comfortable.
Add interest with accessories
Layering garments is a great way to show personality, and really does complete an outfit. But, as the temperatures climb we can do without the extra bulk. I’ve been experimenting with accessories to add interest to simpler looks. I might tie a silk scarf or bandana around my bag handle to add a pop of colour, I’ve also been wearing more jewellery such as pendants with interesting charms, colourful bracelets and sculptural earrings.
Don’t forget proportions
Just because it's hot it doesn't mean that anything goes. Oversized pieces are chic, but it's about balance. Pairing a baggy top with baggy bottoms is a great look, but can look a little too relaxed for the workplace, while fitted pieces from head to toe are too bodycon for an office setting. Instead, balance your proportions. If you're wearing tailored shorts or slim-fitting trousers, add an oversized striped shirt, a draped t-shirt or a relaxed linen blouse. If you're opting for wide-leg linen trousers or a flowing midi skirt, a fitted vest, ribbed knit or something structured will create a more polished silhouette.
Look for the Ozzie brands
When it comes to warm-weather dressing, Australian brands have a head start. Designing for hot climates is born out of necessity, so they are well versed in making summer dressing look easy. Dissh is my latest crush, but St. Agni and SIR are close seconds. All three excel at breezy, but polished silhouettes.
Dissh Anabelle White Sleeveless Dress
Wear lighter colours
It may sound obvious, but I always gravitate towards lighter shades in a heatwave.
White, cream, stone, pale blue and soft neutrals reflect more sunlight than darker colours, making them a cooler choice on sunny days. If head-to-toe pale tones start to feel a little too soft, I'll ground the look with black leather shoes and a matching bag - or (my favourite) a big pop of colour such as tomato red, or mint green).
The contrast gives the outfit a sharper, more modern edge.
