Staying cool, calm and collected during a heatwave
QMy ‘‘summer’’ workwear isn’t standing up to this heat. Help!
AThere are two problems I always face when dressing for work in hot weather. The first is the commute; it only takes 10 sweaty minutes to ruin a perfectly put-together look. My advice is to wear the bare minimum on your journey, and then add layers. This is also when creasefree fabrics really come into their own.
The second issue is falling into that very British trap of dressing as though you’re at the seaside the moment the sun is out. I once arrived back at Downing Street after a week’s holiday in Spain in a lovely sundress with espadrilles. I had a day of high-level meetings; the flush of my tan had dimmed dramatically by
lunchtime, and I felt too out of place to offer much, if any, input into what was being discussed. The shops are still a riot of floral maxi dresses for summer events and tropical prints for the beach, and it’s tough to navigate through.
A shirt dress is a good solution: smart enough, and should stand up to the heat. Cos uses a brilliant stiff cotton that lasts well and looks fresh; I’d team their striped dress with a leather belt and black heels.
Palmer//harding excels at crisp cotton dresses with structural detailing that are cool but office appropriate. If you’re happy to bare your arms, a sleeveless top in a lightweight fabric tucked into a skirt or trousers will help keep you cool. You can add a jacket for meetings if needed.
Try to avoid anything too fitted, especially around your lower half. Wide-leg trousers will be more comfortable than a slim pair; I find that the higher-waisted the cut, the more flattering they are on. Look for fabrics with stretch and don’t be scared by a polyester mix – it will keep creases at bay much longer than 100per cent cotton or linen.
While you might choose (sensibly) to commute in a pair of flat sandals, as long as your feet are in good nick, I think open-toe heels can be just as smart as court shoes. I prefer open-toed shoes in summer as there’s less chance they’ll rub when your feet are hot.
And lastly, remember not to complain – we’ll be dreaming of this heat come winter. To ask Isabel Spearman your workwear questions, email isabel.spearman@telegraph. co.uk or follow her on Instagram @isabelspearman
The issue is falling into that very British trap of dressing as though you’re at the seaside