It’s been so hot this week I’ve seriously considered becoming a full-time nudist. Just me?

When the temperature rises, even thinking about getting dressed feels like a chore — let alone doing it with any sort of style. But as we do have to wear clothes to leave the house (good otherwise I would be out of a job), let’s chat about a few ways to make sure what we’re wearing is actually helping us stay cool.

Here are 4 easy ways to keep cool (literally and sartorially) in the heat:

1. The breezy trio: cotton, linen, viscose.
Natural fibres are your best friend when it’s hot. Cotton, linen and viscose all allow your skin to breathe, unlike polyester, which traps heat and makes you question your life choices. Check the label before you buy, and aim for styles made mostly from these fabrics.

2. Swap sleeves for structure.
It’s tempting to go full minimal in the heat, but sometimes a little coverage actually helps keep you cooler (and stops the dreaded sunburned shoulders). Look for pieces with structure, like a short-sleeved shirt, a floaty midi dress, or a sleeveless top with a high neck so you still feel ‘dressed’ without overheating.

3. Light colours > dark ones.
Dark colours absorb heat, so stick to your lighter seasonal shades, they’ll bounce the sunlight right off you. This is why I always do a double take when I see someone walking around in head-to-toe black on a 30°C day.

4. Loose is lovely.
When it’s sweltering, the last thing you want is clingy clothes. Opt for looser fits that skim your body and let the air flow. Bonus: wide-leg trousers or a voluminous midi skirt in linen feel like wearable air-conditioning.

Some lovely pieces in the shops for each season, made of only cotton, linen or viscose.

Spring