We’re fashion experts – the style rules for staying cool during the heatwave & why spaghetti straps are a big no-no
FORGET everything you have been told about how to dress during a heatwave.
“Summer black” is not a thing, you do not need to go sleeveless and sheer fabrics will not cool you down.
But there are a few simple style tricks that can help you to avoid becoming a sticky mess as temperatures soar . . .
Embrace mini skirts
For Fabulous’ Celebrity Style Editor Nana Acheampong, 35, less is always more.
She says: “During this heatwave, I haven’t stopped wearing mini skirts with either a short- sleeved shirt or vest top.
"It’s a super-simple combo that effectively means I don’t get hot and bothered with lots of fabric or material on my body.
"There is nothing worse than clothes sticking because of sweat. I have an array of mini skirts in every block colour going.
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“But if micro minis aren’t for you, longer styles that hit just above the knee are as cooling and flattering, plus you can tuck in your shirt, or do a half tuck like I do, to show off your waist.”
Live in your linen
Linen is the go-to summer staple of Fashion Director Tracey Lea Sayer, 50, and she never worries about creases.
Tracey says: “When the temperature soars, the first thing I do is reach for the linen. It makes me feel really comfortable as well as cool.
“This lightweight fabric lets my skin breathe and stops me being a hot midlife mess.
"It’s an investment, too, as it’s a classic that never dates. Linen’s tendency to crease can put people off from wearing it.
But I love that you don’t need to iron it — just hang to dry. And it actually looks better throughout the day as it wrinkles a bit.”
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Invest in a white shirt
Tracey adds: “Uniqlo, M&S and Gap are my favourite stores for basic linen pieces that will be building blocks for your wardrobe.
"Invest in a white linen shirt and you can wear it with denim cut-offs, as a cover up over a bikini and tied at the waist over a dress for evening.
"Check out our shoot on the next page to see how.”
Buy a budget mini dress
The supermarkets are full of stylish, wafty midi dresses, says Senior Stylist and fashion writer Abby McHale.
The 27-year-old says: “I like to wear dresses that don’t cling too tight and will give me some air. Enter . . . the wafty midi-dress.
“I go for empire lines, which keep your shape as the lining falls beneath your bust, and I prefer sleeves so that my shoulders are covered from the sun.
"The supermarket aisles are a great option. I wear my super-midis on rotation.
“Throwing one on takes the effort out of dressing when you are already hot and bothered.”
Cycling shorts under dresses
Abby adds: “Chafing of the thighs can be a real problem during a warm spell, so I like to wear a pair of anti-chafing shorts (or cycling shorts), underneath my dresses, which has been a real lifesaver.
"I’ve tried other hacks but this really is foolproof.
Borrow from the boys
Men’s typical weekend wardrobe for summer — shorts and a shirt — is fuss-free, and cool.
And for Stylist Jess Evans, 27, this is her go-to. She says: “When dressing for extreme heat I look no further than my cotton co-ord.
"The matching boxer short and shirt combo was a huge hit for summer last year and it’s not going anywhere.
“Opt for a matching set to look instantly put together. Super easy to dress up or down, I often pair a co-ord with my New Balance trainers and a racer vest underneath the shirt.”
Opt for elasticated waists
Restrictive fabrics and structured waist-bands are to be avoided.
Jess adds: “Roomy elasticated waisted shorts paired with an open breezy shirt is my idea of ultimate comfort, and it’s chic.
“Buttoning the shirt slightly stops me feeling too ‘naked’ but the breathable fabric leaves me feeling equally as cool. Plus, co-ords are cheap — bag a set for as little as £25 from Asos.”
Cover up to stay cool
Contrary to popular belief, covering up can actually keep you cooler.
Fashion Editor Clemmie Fieldsend, 32, says: “The science behind it is that when more of your skin is exposed to the sunlight and hot air the nerves are more likely to react.
“I choose breathable fabrics like cotton, but also think about how I’m going to layer.
"For example, a shirt or lightweight blazer could be perfect for wearing over trousers, shorts and dresses.”
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Be alright in white
Clemmie adds: “Try to wear light fabrics and light colours too, like whites, creams or beiges.
"Lighter shades reflect the sunlight, as opposed to darks, which absorb it, so just by picking pale shades you’ll be getting yourself off to a good start.”
And what not to wear
IT’S easy to go wrong when dressing in extreme heat.
Clemmie Fieldsend looks at what to avoid.
HOT PANTS: They are uncomfortable and leave bum cheeks hanging out. Unless you have got the posterior of a Love Islander, cover up those buttocks.
NUDE SHADES: If your nude clobber matches your skin tone, you’re in trouble – as you look, well, naked. Looking trouserless will mean all eyes are on you.
TIGHT CLOTHING: In the blistering heat, tight clothing only leads to underboob sweat and sweaty patches on the bum.
SPAGHETTI STRAPS: Overdone it in the sun, with red skin and white lines where your spaghetti straps were? Rather than revealing your mistake to passers-by, cover up the next day.
UNDERBOOB TOPS: Bikinis and underboob flashing tops are trendy. But they can get you kicked out of your favourite bar, as two women found out last summer when they were evicted from a Wetherspoons.
TIGHTS: Wearing shiny American-tan style nylons because your legs are pale just won’t do. Your legs will want air and you will stick out. Try fake tan instead.
