An airy, *not just dresses*, heatwave-friendly edit

Summer finally seems to be making its grand entrance here in the UK, and I’m trying to prep my wardrobe accordingly. I’ll make it no secret, I historically have hated dressing in the heat. Never hugely being a “nice floaty dress” girly (which always seems to be the only approved heatwave uniform), I’ve always preferred autumn/winter dressing.

This edit is proof that airy, comfortable heatwave dressing can go way beyond linen maxis. Deodorant to spray on your thighs and underboob at the ready (iykyk) - here are 7 pieces I would style for a (semi) sweat-free summer.

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I am a dad jort apologist, and will not be tolerating the slander in my name. These shorts are practical, comfy and actually allow your thighs to get a bit of airflow.

Obsessed that I’m seeing these crop up everywhere and picked up a (now seemingly sold out) blue denim pair from COS, but they are still available in this versatile neutral shade. These are also fairly lightweight and stretchy, so won’t feel heavy and smothering on hot days.

As much as I love the feeling of a bare face in the sunshine, my skin sadly doesn’t. A sun hat will be my heatwave essential this year, to make sure I always have a bit of shade on the go. This find from By Malene Birger is the ideal addition to a minimalist summer wardrobe - kind of 70s carpet vibe, but in a good way.

Ok, ok, I had to give you one. If I was ever going to have said “nice floaty dress” moment, it would most likely be in this. I love the balloon hem to switch things up stylistically and feel it’s a piece that could effortlessly take you from day to night. It’s also giving me alternative wedding dress, @ all last minute summer brides.

As with our bodies in warm weather, we want as little as possible on our feet. I shopped a pair of St. Agni sandals, not dissimilar to these, second-hand a few months back and they are super comfortable despite minimal material and structure. I’ve also found them to be such good quality, so well worth the steeper investment.

Strapless, longline linen tops are super popular this summer. I can see why - they’re airy, comfortable and post-BBQ-bloat friendly. I love the soft cornflower pop of colour this pick from Reformation gives. Olive greens, or vibrant yellows would similarly be a nice refresher this summer for a traditionally neutral dresser.

I was jammy enough to snag this particular linen set from sustainable Aussie brand Deiji Studios preloved on Depop a few months ago, and it’s my go-to every time the sun shows its face. These sets feel like a cross between pyjamas and loungewear, which essentially is all you’re after when temperatures are sweltering.

Speaking of Aussies, who better to buy your summer swimwear from? I’ve admired Tona the Label’s sets from afar for years, with their supportive structure and timeless designs. This top could easily double as a bralette throughout the warmer months - made with quick-drying Econyl® to save you from sweat mark stress.

Silk is one of the most comfortable fabrics you can wear in the heat, with naturally moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties. These unique bandeau tops are handmade to order by the small, London-based label SBA which prioritises a slow, considered production.

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