Be cool

Happy heatwave everyone! England is finally awash with sunshine and we’re enjoying some pretty scorching temperatures too, but chances are it’s come as a bit of a shock to the system. Your wardrobe won’t be used to it, but with a few careful fashion picks you can be cool and look good no matter how high the mercury gets.

Balmy temperatures don’t mean you have to go off-fashion – if anything, now’s the perfect time to put your fashion credentials to the test! There are several key trends you can channel at this time of year, and your first port of call should be a maxi dress. This is a summer staple, particularly as your legs won’t have had much of a chance to develop a tan yet, with the length and floaty material letting you stay cool whilst keeping your stylish edge.

Or, for a 2013 twist on the classic, why not opt for the dipped hem dress? This style, otherwise known as the hi-lo dress or the waterfall, is shorter at the front but longer at the back so the fabric can float in the summer breeze. It’s a pretty, feminine look and can be ideal for these hot temperatures, and it basically means you’re getting a mini and a maxi in one. What’s not to love?

As for another summer classic, you can’t go wrong with the denim short. These are an absolute must – they’re so versatile they can work with any look imaginable, whether you’re slobbing around in flip flops or want to dress them up with a pair of heeled sandals or wedges, and the current trend is to opt for high-waisted, vintage denim with a cropped top for a high-fashion look.

For something more suitable for the working week, you can’t go wrong with a pair of simple linen trousers. These can be teamed with shirts, blouses and tops of all kinds, and you can even get tailored designs for a more fitted silhouette. Dresses and skirts will be a must for the office at this time of year too, and don’t be afraid to experiment with pops of colour to keep cool, comfortable and work-appropriate whilst adding a distinctly fashionable touch.

Summer might be a bit late but we got there in the end, and if you’ve got the right fashion choices to suit you can stay cool whether you’re at work, rest or play. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy the sunshine!