What To Wear In A Heatwave
5 Outfit Formulas That Work When It’s Too Hot to Think
When the heat hits and the city feels like a furnace, dressing well can easily slip into overthinking. For me, summer style is about having a handful of go-to pieces that work hard, feel good, and keep me cool without fuss.
Here are five outfit formulas I turn to when the temperature rises - easy, practical, but never boring.
The Lace Detail
Subtle textures that add depth and interest to everyday outfits
Shop the EDIT
Worn with a lived-in tee and ballet pumps, lace-trim shorts feel less bedroom, more off-duty - unexpected, but it works.
Silk Shorts | Lace Bra | Tee | Bag | Loafers | Cord Necklace | Gradual Tan
The Slip Dress or Skirt
90s minimalism with maximum impact; the ultimate ‘barely there’ summer staple.
Shop the EDIT
A black slip dress stays minimal, the raffia bag adds summer texture, and a leather flip-flop grounds it - an easy take on warm-weather dressing for the city.
Silk Dress | Thong Sandals | Woven Bag | Sunglasses | Bangle | Earrings | Ilia
The Linen Midi
Effortless yet considered, team with a ballet pump or loafer to make it more city less beach.
Shop the EDIT
An oversized blazer elevates the linen mini, while slip-on shoes keep the look effortless and cool.
Linen Dress | Mules | Blazer | Fendi Bag | Sunglasses | Chain | Medik8
The Parachute Trouser
Relaxed, billowy trousers balanced with a simple tank or bandeau for an easy summer silhouette. (The below pic of Jennifer Aniston is still giving me inspiration over 20 years on!)
Shop the EDIT
Parachute trousers bring relaxed volume, paired with a fitted tank and leather flip-flops for a look that’s effortless but considered.
Trousers | Tank | Flip Flop | Bag | Ring | Sunglasses | Lipstick
The T-Shirt Dress
A laid-back base; tie a shirt around your waist to instantly add shape and styling detail.
Shop the EDIT
A classic t-shirt dress gets a styling upgrade with a shirt layered or tied at the waist, finished with pumps for a look that’s relaxed yet intentional.
T.Shirt Dress | Shirt | Pumps | Bag | Watch | Sunglasses | Lip Butter Balm
Style Notes for Summer
Fabrics matter - linen, silk, and cotton breathe and feel good on hot days
Mix loose and fitted pieces to keep shape without overheating
Accessories like raffia bags or lace details add subtle interest
For footwear, leather flip-flops and loafers offer comfort with a bit of polish
A leopard shoe/bag or polka dot skirt/silk scarf break up an all-black look
Jewellery goes a long way in finishing off a minimal outfit
Read the post on OverDress.co.uk
The June Issue
Whenever I start spending too much time trying to create an outfit instead of just throwing one together, it usually means I’ve been adding more than editing. For me, the goal is to have all the right ingredients in my wardrobe so I can grab and go – no overthinking. Sure, I might swap an oversized tee for something more fitted, or trade my denim for a more relaxed pair, but overall, I want to be able to get dressed without the internal debate.
