So May just flew by, and now June is here again and summer feels like it’s well and truly upon us! It’s great to finally be shopping and creating wardrobes of summer outfits in the sunshine and warmth, rather than in rain and cold and having to rely purely on imagination! If you find you are struggling with your summer wardrobe now we have experienced some hotter weather, I have a few dates still available in late June and July. If you would like some help in getting your holiday or summer wardrobe organised then give me a call.

Here are some tips and ideas from my newsletter on how to feel and look cool in this heat – long may it continue!

look for natural fabrics. Cotton muslin, organza & chiffon, light weight linen, and wool. Knowing what fabrics to shop for is half the battle to overcoming summer heat. Read the labels! Natural fibres – cotton/silk/wool – breathe better than manmade. Layer lightweight loose fabrics over an absorbing cotton vest for a cool solution. In direct sun it is cooler – and healthier- to keep skin covered up in a fine cotton shirt, and wear the vest alone when in the shade. Gap and Uniqlo have great cotton casual shirts, and try Top Shop and American Apparel for a rainbow assortment of plain vests.

wear clothes that don’t restrict. Be especially careful at the arms and the waist. Pinched biceps or waistlines are more miserable in heat. When things look too tight, you look uncomfortable and probably feel uncomfortable, and that’s not cool. If your are concerned about looking pregnant in some looser styles, make sure you show off the smallest part of your waist with a skinny belt, and slim legs in a white skinny jeans or leggings. This goes for shoes too. Tight and uncomfortable shoes are even worse in the heat. If you are a heel wearer, invest in some comfortable wedge sandals, and if you are a flats girl, try some gold gladiator style sandals. Clarks – yes said Clarks! – have some great summer styles in and they are comfortable, stylish and they come in half sizes so they will fit!

follow the 50/50 rule. All-over fullness looks sloppy and adds imaginary pounds. If you’re wearing one close-fitting garment such as a skinny jean, you can let the top be looser. If you’re wearing a close-fitting summer top or a vest, wear a looser skirt, wide-legged or baggy trousers.

printed fabrics hide perspiration better than solid-colored fabrics. If you need an excuse to step outside your comfort zone and try a print, this is it! If you are prone to perspiration, disguise your sweat marks by wearing a patterned summer top or dress. Also, make sure you buy one of the ‘anti-white mark’ deodorants to make sure you don’t mark your coloured and dark clothes.

cover ups. If you don’t like to show off your arms, buy a lightweight casual linen jacket as a cool alternative to cardigans. Top Shop and Gap both have good value ones right now. Otherwise, you can transform a cotton or linen blouse into a jacket when you roll the sleeves up. Expose your wrists and forearms and wear a vest top underneath. Also try Banana Republic and Uniqlo for loose cotton cardigans. Carry a shawl or fine-weight pashmina with you. It can be great over bare arms for protection from the sun and is also perfect in air-conditioned restaurants for added warmth.

update your sunglasses. This will be your defining summer accessory when your clothes are simple. Sunglasses will instantly update your look. Pick a classic pair in black or tortoise shell frame that have ‘style’ written all over them, and make sure you try on lots of different shapes! Choose ones that suit you, that you feel comfortable in and that work with the shape of your face, rather than following celebrity trends.

book a pedicure! Or at least paint your toenails – essential if you’re wearing sandals that bare all. Have fun choosing the colour. You can afford to go brighter and more daring on toes than on hands, and wear colours that would not suit your skin tone normally. There are some gorgeous corals and oranges available – I’m loving nails inc’s orange called Hans Place.

switch your leather handbag. Try canvas, cotton, or straw for a lighter, more summery look. This is a refreshing change from heavy winter bags and a great source for style and individuality. If you wear lots of prints, look for a solid, natural-coloured bag. Otherwise, a gorgeous leather bag in a bright colour is a great way to bring in a splash of colour if you are not brave enough to wear it on your person.