As persistent heatwaves continue, fashion experts are providing guidance on how to dress appropriately to stay cool and comfortable, even in urban environments. The consensus emphasizes breathable fabrics, lighter color palettes, and considered silhouettes.
For women, white and cream have re-emerged as top choices for heatwave attire, offering a chic alternative to brighter hues. Celebrities have been observed in white trouser suits, white dresses, and monochrome outfits combining white tops with black wide-leg trousers. The combination of a white ankle-grazing skirt with a black short-sleeved or sleeveless top is also noted as a classic heatwave look. While loose, wafty garments can offer air circulation, they may appear unflattering unless paired with a deep V-neckline, empire waist, and bracelet-length sleeves, ideally in a light color and without prints. Sheer or clingy fabrics are generally discouraged, with light cottons and uncreasable materials like double cloth and seersucker recommended. Man-made fabrics are to be avoided.
Coverage can also contribute to staying cool. Longer hemlines, such as those found in shirt dresses or maxi skirts paired with short-sleeved shirts, are suggested to provide a breezier appearance and eliminate the need for fake tan. Similarly, longer sleeves can offer protection from the sun and contribute to a cooler feel. While shorter shorts were seen at Wimbledon, experts advise that knee-grazing or longer hemlines are generally more appropriate for those over 50, regardless of leg appearance. Footwear recommendations include pale-colored or white heels, strappy sandals, or slingbacks. Showing a glimpse of foot skin can lighten the overall look when wearing trousers or maxi skirts. Heavy, wintry-looking shoes can detract from a heatwave outfit. Bags in light leather, pale tan, basket weave, or raffia are suggested over black options, which can appear out of place in the heat.
Tailoring can also be effective in extreme temperatures. A well-fitting linen jacket worn over a short-sleeved dress offers sun protection and a polished appearance. The waistcoat, worn with nothing underneath and paired with tailored trousers, is highlighted as a modern option for looking sharp without being overly covered. Sienna Miller was noted wearing a pale grey "Heatwave Suit" with XL wide trousers, described as flowing like a maxi below the waist and fitting closely above, offering versatility in styling.
For men, while an all-white ensemble can resemble yachting attire, cream linen suits are recommended. Loose, creased linen shirts worn untucked over trousers are advised against, with a linen jacket over a pale shirt suggested instead to cover creases and potential sweat stains, sharpen the silhouette, and feel cooler. Pale colors are encouraged, with light khaki trousers, white shirts, and tan shoes or beige jackets over sky-blue shirts as examples. Short shorts are discouraged in favor of longer styles. While Birkenstocks might be acceptable for casual weekend wear, more coverage is needed for smarter settings. Flip-flops should be reserved for holidays. Shirts should have a maximum of two undone buttons, and sleeves should not be rolled too neatly. Footwear should also be lighter in color and weight, with tan leather or brown suede options, or plain tan or cream trainers being suitable smart-casual choices. Black suede and brogues are generally discouraged unless worn with a suit. Cotton and linen long-sleeved shirts are preferred over polo shirts or T-shirts.