5 ideas on how to dress in a heatwave & still look smart

It's tricky to stay looking smart in the heat & I must say I feel sorry for guys having to wear trousers & jackets when us ladies can swan around in cool dresses. Linen is okay for some but can look a little crumpled, so not ideal for all situations.

Here I've chosen 5 items that will be ideal for keeping you cool in the heat but still look smart enough to wear for business casual.

 

1) Get some seersucker

Seersucker is designed with it's bumpy texture to keep the fabric away from your body making it cool & light to wear. Go for a lightweight unlined blazer like this one from Ermenegildo Zegna at Mr Porter to keep cool but smart.

*Update: That one has sold out but there's a very similar one by Theory here.

 

2) Wear a mesh shirt

A light & airy mesh fabric from Richard James makes a classic work shirt cool & comfortable (check out my Instagram to see the faux pas I made whilst checking this out in the shop!)

3) Wear an underlayer

Contradictory as this may seem to put on another layer, I have it on very good authority from one very stylish gentleman I know that this really works! When I asked if it didn't make you even hotter wearing an undershirt, he said: "Not a good underlayer. Uniqlo Airism is a GODSEND. One of the big myths about underlayers is they make you hot but they actually stop your outer layers from sticking to you. I wear the seamless ones under polo shirts or shirts every day."

4) Miracle Air jeans

Denim can feel way too heavy in summer but if you love wearing jeans then I'd suggest you try out another little gem from Uniqlo. These super lightweight, slim fit ones from Uniqlo will definitely help you to keep your cool when the temperatures are soaring.

*Update: these are latest ones from Uniqlo - Ultra Light 3D jeans at the ridiculously low price of £7.90!!! 

5) Cole Haan knit shoes

You may have noticed the knit trend in trainers but American brand Cole Haan has introduced a smarter version into these Oxford shoes. The Stitchlite knit uses a combination of dynamic stitching and static tight gauge stitching to provide breathability, moisture control, and a lightweight, foot-hugging fit. Though I have yet to buy a pair of these with any clients, when I've picked them up in the shop, I've been astounded at how light they are and they look to be super comfy and cushioned too. Perfect for a 'scorchio' day!

If you'd like to go shopping for some lightweight, cool clothes suitable for business casual then please don't hesitate to get in touch.

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