According to every weather app, the UK is about to experience a heatwave this weekend. Hard to believe if, like me, you were wearing jumpers at the start of the week—the great British weather is anything but predictable. And just as the weather can be relied upon to be unpredictable, so too can the general public to complain about the heat when it finally arrives. That is why it is so important to be ready with the right attire.
Natural Fibres Are Key
When temperatures soar, there is one golden rule: natural fibres. Yes, linen, cotton, straw and leather are your best friends. I hardly need to explain why polyester clothing and plastic shoes are best avoided. The tricky part is finding genuinely breathable pieces on the high street, especially when shopping in 30 degrees is nobody’s idea of fun—but I have done the legwork for you.
Thankfully, you do not need to spend a fortune. Supermarkets and high street brands are offering some great affordable options—you just need to pay attention to the labels and any misleading marketing (be warned: a lot of items listed as ‘linen’ have a high percentage of viscose). So, if you want to survive the sudden summer temperatures while still looking polished, these are the seven breathable buys worth investing in.
1. Lightweight Cotton Shirt
A simple button-down shirt is the hardest-working item in my hot weather wardrobe. It does not look out of place in the office with tailored trousers but works just as well thrown over shorts on the beach. A white linen is my go-to, but if you are after colour, Uniqlo is hard to beat. And if you fancy a co-ord with matching shorts—do not judge too quickly; I was sceptical too, but I have practically lived in mine for the past two summers—make a beeline for With Nothing Underneath (£130) or, for a more affordable option, check out George at Asda’s 100% cotton offering (£14).
2. Wide-Leg Linen Trousers
There is nothing pleasant about clinging fabric on a hot summer’s day, so now is the time to turn to wide-leg trousers, ideally linen. A wider leg silhouette disguises the creases better than a slim fit pair of trousers or a skirt. High-waisted styles that sweep the floor look great with a simple cotton t-shirt tucked in. If you want something understated and easy, go for a chocolate brown or cream—Massimo Dutti have a fantastic selection (from £69.95)—which will work effortlessly with your existing wardrobe. Otherwise, have fun with a striking stripe pair like these from Boden (£129).
3. Easy, Anywhere Dress
The ultimate summer dress is breathable, lightweight and effortlessly easy—one you can wear on repeat the moment the sun comes out. Look for a relaxed silhouette that skims the body rather than swamping it, like this spaghetti-strap style. If you think natural fibres only come in neutral shades, think again: Albaray has collaborated with Laetitia Rouget on a fabulously colourful collection, the majority of which is crafted from 100% organic cotton (from £99). Just add oversized sunglasses and leather sandals, and suddenly Margate seafront feels a little more Mediterranean.
4. Leather Thong Sandals
The Row’s understated black leather thong sandals have transformed the humble flip-flop into a serious fashion statement—excellent news in this weather. Unsurprisingly, their £960 price tag may cause even the top 1% to wince, but there are plenty of affordable alternatives. Nobody’s Child is relatively new to footwear and doing great things: the brand’s black leather and brown suede pairs (£99) will work with almost anything in your wardrobe. If you want something more playful, Marks & Spencer has a brilliant bright red option (£30).
5. Smart Straw Bag
Raffia accessories have seriously upped their game. Once considered holiday-only, they now make perfectly chic work bags—and they are far lighter and less sweaty than leather alternatives (yes, a handbag can make you sweaty—try a packed train during rush hour with one). If you want something polished rather than beachy, look for structured shapes. Whistles does an elegant version (£89)—complete with leather straps and an inside pocket (very useful with bags this size)—while John Lewis has an oversized style with a gold clasp that looks considerably more expensive than it is (£139).
