WHAT TO WEAR THIS WEEKEND

FLEXIBLE FRIEND

VersATiLiTY is key for this summer’s wardrobe. With most of us staycationing, each item must work hard come rain or shine. And many of us still want the comfort factor we’ve become used to while wearing loungewear in lockdown. Taking all this into account, linen is your answer. A pair of wide-leg linen trousers can look smart or casual. Just be sure to tuck in your top to avoid a sack-like silhouette.

IGNORE THE CREASES!

MAde from natural fibres, linen is all about simple, relaxed style. The fabric is breathable and feels cool and comfortable against the skin. Made from flax, which is a regenerative crop that enriches the soil, it uses considerably less water to grow than cotton. All of which, as far as i’m concerned, counters the downside — yes, i’m talking about those creases. remember that linen doesn’t need to look pristine. i iron mine on maximum heat after a wash and use a hand-held steamer between wears.

DESIGNER FAVOURITE

designers including dior, Fendi and Louis Vuitton embraced linen in their spring/summer ‘21 collections, showing at least one linen look. As well as ticking the planetfriendly box, it’s practical too, requiring little washing. The natural fabric improves with age, getting softer with each wear.

NOT JUST FOR HOLIDAYS

Linen lends itself to muted colours, like this dusky rose from John Lewis’s Modern rarity collection. going tonal in one colour top-totoe will look ‘put together’. You’d be forgiven for thinking i’m wearing a jumpsuit, but i plan to wear the separates for holidays when the weather hots up. A blazer in a neutral shade, like this biscuit one from Hobbs, finishes the look with attitude, whether i wear it to the office or dressing up for a date night.