As anyone living in the unpredictable English climate knows, dressing for spells of warm weather can be challenging. If you’ve ever asked the age-old questions Will I need to bring a jacket? and Is that… rain? you’ll know that consistency isn’t Britain’s forte, but judging by the current forecast in the UK, the next week is looking optimistically sunny, and I am ready for it.
As someone who has now had plenty of experience in strategic layering, I thought I would take some time to share my knowledge of how exactly to dress when the mercury rises (and it does involve some sensible sleeves, just in case).
From clever co-ords to reliable dresses, there’s no one formula when it comes to dressing for warm weather. And at the end of the day, it’s all about what makes you feel cool and comfortable, as both factors are a top priority when outfit planning.
Think breathable fabrics, fluid silhouettes and plenty of print and colour, as seen on the fashion set. In fact, between the linen separates, versatile accessorising and sun-smart tailoring, it seems several of our favourites have perfected warm-weather dressing. Keep scrolling for seven summer outfit ideas for what to wear in a heatwave.
Style Notes: For the hottest days when you want the easiest outfit, look no further than the cotton co-ord. An airy, light shirt and comfy shorts make a surprisingly chic option that is guaranteed to keep you cool. Just add slides or sandals for your new weekend uniform.
Yaitte’s cotton shirts are the kind of premium quality that don’t go sheer or crease easily. Pair one with the brand’s matching shorts to double up on this eye-catching print.
A slouchy tote big enough to hold everything you’ll need for work, shopping and anything in between.
Luxury slides are still a firm favourite this summer.
Style Notes: Okay, hear me out. The thought of tailoring in summer might sound hot, but far from a stuffy three-piece suit, a simple wasitcoat with shorts or wide-leg trousers adds polish to an otherwise casual look.
If black feels too heavy, swap in neutrals like camel, cream or grey that will work just as well with jeans and loafers when the weather gets cooler.
Balance the structured tailoring of a waistcoat with soft linens.
Add retro cool with this pair of sunnies, my favourite from the Missoma x Le Specs collaboration.
Style Notes: Nothing says summer like dopamine dressing. Cue the bold and beautiful printed silk shirt. The short-sleeve bowling style is taking over my feed right now, and the loose silky feel is a welcome change from a clingy jersey tee.
Less Hawaiian shirt and more Pucci-inspired graphics and florals, these ultra-comfortable shirts are the stylish evolution of your favourite pyjamas.
A classic pair of khaki shorts is a summer staple, and investing in a pair like this one from Vanessa Bruno will keep you covered for years to come.
We called it: The wrap sandal is one of the styles set to dominate this summer.
Style Notes: The dreamy nap dress, so known for its proximity to a vintage nightgown, is one of my current obsessions. There is almost no styling required with this bed-to-brunch option, saving you valuable time getting ready in the morning.
If the reviews are anything to go by, the fit and built-in slip make this dress a winner.
Big-heel energy in a far more comfortable low, block style.
The perfect finishing touch to any outfit.
A buttery leather top-handle makes the perfect shoulder bag.
Style Notes: For an exercise in understated layering, simply add a white shirt over a tank top to channel the cool-girl brand of less is more.
Made from organic cotton and treated with peppermint oil to help you stay cool and fresh.
Seamless and reversible for an ultra-smooth fit.
A midi skirt goes with everything, and I’m swapping out the dark jewel-toned satin skirts I wore through autumn for this summery, pastel iteration.
BRB, adding this St. Agni bag to my wish list ASAP.
Take it from me (and Audrey Hepburn): Oversized cat-eye sunglasses never go out of style.
Style Notes: For the perfect summer wedding guest outfit, add skyscraper heels to your floral dress, and take your daytime look up another level.
From Anna Sui to Gucci, vintage floral prints are mainstay for this spring summer.
Party shoes that deserve to be seen.
Add the finishing touch to a retro-inspired look with a fine gold chain.
Who What Wear’s Emily Dawes is already sold on this trouser trend, but the latest way to wear it? With the scarf top of former Y2K glory. This look might not be for the fainthearted, but fear not: The scarf can be stylishly repurposed as a headscarf as seen on Emili Sindlev.
Fendi’s tribute to the disco era just so happens to make for one of the most joyous prints to be seen in this season.
Twenty-four-karat style.
Just when you thought you’d seen all of the best basket bags on the market, check out Stelar’s adorable range, handcrafted from locally grown Balinese grass.
