TIME TO TAKE THE PLUNGE
Home or away, enjoy the hot weather in style with these heatwave staples, writes Lily Pearson
The hot weather is a cruel, fleeting and unpredictable mistress for us Brits. Known to arrive spectacularly early or late and with a tendency to disappear more quickly than you can say ‘one 99 with a Flake, please’, it’s no wonder we’re all so obsessed with our Met Office apps. But that just makes it even more special when we do get to bask in the sun – and recent developments in foreign travel may just make that more likely than we thought. So, whether you manage to get a flight to sunnier climes overseas or are making the most of hot weather at home, here are the high summer essentials that’ll keep you looking chic even as the mercury climbs…
SUNBATHING SELECTION
You can’t argue the importance of a good bit of swimwear when the weather heats up, and that’s not just if you’re lucky enough to be reclining on a white beach in the Balearics, either. Balcony bathers, park dwellers and the brave souls taking a dip in the English Channel alike can all make a fashion statement with their swimmers.
Take inspiration from Hunza G’s cult pieces and look for something with a crinkled or seersucker fabric: not only does the finish feel high-end, but it can make the sometimes difficult-to-navigate sizing of swimwear more forgiving.
For those dedicated to tanning, bandeau silhouettes are the way forward, and there are plenty of options that include detachable straps for more versatility.
If you want to make a statement, choose a bold, printed one-piece. That way, you can simply throw on some denim cut-offs to complete your summer evening outfit.
It’s also time to make the most of the balmy evenings and fewer restrictions with some fun nights spent sipping cocktails in our favourite bars and restaurants.
It’s not often we get the chance to show off our outfits without that necessary jacket, so why not dress up for the occasion? Relish in the rare opportunity to show some skin with a slinky dress. Much to the pleasure of former Nineties and Noughties teens, halter styles are experiencing something of a comeback, while slip silhouettes are a failsafe option for effortless glamour.
To finish the look – and help you keep cool – pull your hair back for a sleek updo with a statement scrunchie. And when it comes to shoes? Perhaps the one positive of closed dance floors is that we can save our feet while donning a pair of the barely-there strappy sandals that have spent so long unworn. Result.
SUMMER IN THE CITY
A heat wave in a busy city can often feel claustrophobic, with clammy public transport and poorly air-conditioned offices making any kind of stylish summer look feel nigh-on impossible, but don’t fret: there are key pieces that can keep you looking and feeling cool.
First up, don’t underestimate the simplicity and comfort of a loose-fitting jumpsuit – good for both work and play, choose light fabrics that can take you from day to night. Alternatively, a summer co-ord – featuring a matching boyfriend-style short and shirt combo – is bang-on trend and can be dressed up or down to your liking. Now here’s hoping the hot weather sticks around.