Working from home during a heatwave has its advantages. You may not have air conditioning, but you can still sip an iced coffee without judgement. You also don’t have to think too much about what to wear. Pants and a cardigan? Sure. A bikini? Unless you’re on video calls, why not? But going outside in 30-degree weather is a different challenge. TikTok might have you rocking a metallic bikini and jorts, but here are some realistic outfit suggestions to keep you from overheating this summer.
Look for natural fibers …
Sweating is your body’s way of cooling itself down. However, some breathable fabrics, such as cotton, silk, merino wool and linen, can also make the heat more bearable. Choose organic if you can, it’s grown without pesticides and is usually better for soil health.
… but know the pros and cons of each substance
Cotton and linen absorb moisture, which means that if you sweat a lot, you’ll feel damp and likely get sweat stains on your clothes. To avoid this, look for garments made from these fabrics in loose silhouettes. Try a flowy dress like this one from Albaray or a pair of loose pants like these from Toast . The fabric won’t cling to your body and will allow more air to circulate. Patterns or dark colors also hide sweat stains better than light solids. So-called “sustainable” fabrics like modal and lyocell (along with the more controversial viscose) are semi-breathable but still absorb moisture. Polyester and nylon wick moisture away, keeping you feeling dry—many sportswear items are made from them—but they’re often derived from polymers made from oil.
Walk the fine line between a holiday summer dress and an everyday summer dress with confidence
If you were wearing it to the beach, it might feel a little too OOO for the office, but there are no hard and fast rules. Floor-length kaftans and maxi dresses can be tricky, as can anything sheer. I’m wary of halter necks and cut-outs; I want to feel comfortable grabbing coffee with coworkers and chatting with managers. I don’t have to worry about hems riding up or bra straps fiddling.
That’s not to say you can’t make more holiday-inspired pieces that work in real life. A crochet tank top like this one from Jigsaw can be worn over a cotton tee. If you’re looking for a little more coverage, midi dresses with a crew neck or scoop neck like this one from M&S can also be worn over a contrasting colour tee. An unbuttoned striped shirt over a white cardigan is also a great option. Browse the men’s section of charity shops or search online for vintage striped shirts.
Take a sunlight test
Loose linens and fine cottons are often a little more sheer than they appear at first glance, especially on a sunny day. Stand in front of a well-lit mirror and take a picture to check if they are sheer. Non-patterned underwear is a good solution. Stripe and Stare make seamless sets (goodbye VPL) in a variety of skin tones.
Focus on shoes
Feet swell in hot weather, so opt for sandals with adjustable straps. I’ve just rounded up a list of styles that will get you through 10,000 steps in comfort. If you’re going to wear sneakers, follow Gen Z’s lead and wear them with visible socks instead of the sneaker type, which will also help absorb moisture and prevent blisters.
Warning: there are many styles of mesh shoes on the high street. Most are made of polyester – aka plastic – and despite the tiny ventilation holes, they’re likely to chafe and make your feet clammy. Opt for a simple sandal in soft leather instead. The same advice applies to male readers. A nice pair of fisherman sandals – check out Grenson – or double-strap sandals like these from John Lewis – work much better than sporty plastic flip-flops.
Less is not always more
In the same way that drinking hot tea can help you cool down, sometimes covering up can help keep you cool. Think ventilation instead of sun exposure. One option would be a flowing shirt dress or a loose skirt and pants over a crop top and short shorts. In less formal situations, men can try a linen shirt and pants untucked – Toast has some great options.
Have fun with shorts (but they are not mandatory)
Just because Paul Mescal and the catwalks are promoting the three-inch seam doesn’t mean your thighs have to follow suit. Arket has longer lengths that won’t cling to your quads. Or buy a classic pair from Dickies.
The short-shorts trend has made its way into womenswear, but there are plenty of longer shorts out there too. These from Massimo Dutti, worn with a T-shirt and smart flat sandals, could be work-appropriate depending on your workplace. For the weekend, try a pair of silky shorts with a fitted oversized shirt or a baggy surf-style tee – scour eBay for authentic second-hand versions.
Accessories are essential
Your physio might not be happy about it, but you might want to ditch the backpack on really hot days – it blocks air and can make your shirt stick to you. Try a lightweight crossbody or basket bag instead – check Etsy for handmade ones. They’re much more suited to the heatwave than a heavy leather bag. Baseball caps aren’t just for the sidelines either. If Rihanna can wear one to a couture show, you can wear one on your commute. A portable fan is also a must-have. This John Lewis fan costs £8.40 and has rave reviews. A chafing cream like this gel is also a handbag hero. Rub it around your toes and where your thighs kiss.
And finally – wear what you want!
For weeks in the UK we have been waiting for the sun to shine. Now that it has, there is no point waiting for the “right” opportunity to wear that dress/skirt/co-ord you have been wanting in your wardrobe for so long. Sequins for a pub lunch. A giant straw hat for a picnic in the park. Fringes for the farmers market. A storm is coming! Don’t regret your wardrobe.
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