Dressing for a Heatwave: Balancing Style and Comfort
Dressing for a heatwave can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style for comfort. The key is to find the right balance between staying cool and looking polished. With the right approach, it’s possible to build outfits that feel both practical and put-together, even in rising temperatures.
‘Dressing for a heatwave comes down to ease, clarity and confidence,’ says celebrity stylist and creative director Rochelle White. ‘Your look—no matter your age—should be all about refinement and understanding how fabric and colour behave. The goal isn’t about leaning into trends or dressing “younger”—it’s about dressing well, with an understanding of what works for you and your surroundings.’
Here are some key tips on what to wear, what to avoid, and the essential pieces worth investing in, along with a high street edit to shop.
Avoid Clingy Fabrics
It’s best to steer clear of materials that cling to the body, such as tight jersey dresses or synthetic tops, which can quickly become uncomfortable in a heatwave. ‘They tend to hold heat and highlight areas that you might not want to be highlighted,’ Rochelle notes. ‘If you do sweat or get sweaty, be mindful of these types of items as they don’t help and can show everything.’
What to Wear Instead: Breathable, Fluid Fabrics
Look for breezy dresses, cotton shirts or linen trousers that skim the body. These fabrics allow airflow and create a relaxed but polished silhouette. ‘The shift in 2026 is towards materials that feel considered but effortless, pieces that move with the body rather than cling to it,’ Rochelle notes. ‘It’s quiet luxury.’
Boden Catherine Linen Dress – £149
ShopWNU The Boyfriend Shirt – £130
ShopReiss Serena Contrast Pleated Skirt – £180
ShopM&S Pure Linen Pleat Front Tapered Trousers – £46
Shop
Avoid Shapeless Silhouettes
There’s a misconception that looser garments are more flattering, but without any structure, pieces can lose intention and can become unflattering. Overly boxy pieces, for example oversized tunics or unstructured shift dresses, can swamp your frame and hide your natural shape rather than creating an effortless look. ‘If you do choose these, be mindful on why and style them well. You can still be stylish in oversized—but be mindful.’
What to Wear Instead: Softly Structured Pieces That Create Shape
Think tailored midi dresses, wrap styles, or blouses with gentle waist definition. Subtle structure helps balance comfort with a flattering fit.
M&S Drawcord Collared Shirt – £36
ShopHobbs Heathfield Floral Dress – £183.20
Was £229
ShopJohn Lewis Shirred Midi Dress – £95.20
Was £119
ShopGhost Giselle Polka Dot Dress – £145
Shop
Avoid Flat Colour Choices
According to Rochelle, colour plays a more important role than people realise. ‘Certain cool or flat tones can drain the complexion in bright sunlight, particularly when paired with minimal makeup or natural skin.’ ‘The wrong shade can make even the best outfit feel off, so it’s important to know what works for you and your tone.’
What to Wear Instead: Uplifting Tones
Warm neutrals, earthy tones, pastels and sun-washed hues are all trending this season. ‘They reflect light in a flattering way and feel modern without trying too hard.’
Hobbs Sloane Broderie Blouse – £79.20
Was £99
ShopBoden Relaxed Wide Leg Jeans – £119
ShopJohn Lewis Utility Shirt Dress – £71.20
Was £89
ShopBaukjen Tara Frill Neck Blouse – £139
Shop
Avoid Harsh or Clashing Prints
Large, chaotic florals or clashing graphic patterns can feel overwhelming and dated, especially when worn head-to-toe. ‘These can be overwhelming and again, depending on your style, not land well. In bright light, they become even louder, and instead of elevating a look, they distract from it.’
What to Wear Instead: Chic Patterns or Tonal Prints
Delicate stripes, florals or tonal prints add interest while remaining timeless and easy to style. If you opt for patterned trousers or a statement top, let it take centre stage and balance it with simple, plain pieces. ‘Subtlety wins,’ Rochelle says. ‘There’s a confidence in restraint that reads far more elevated.’
M&S Pull On Wide Leg Trousers – £26
ShopBoden Puff Sleeve Linen Shirt – £119
ShopM&S Pure Cotton Striped T-Shirt – £10
ShopKaren Millen Stripe Full Midi Skirt – £126.65
Was £149
Shop
Avoid Sheer Fabrics and Tricky Layering
Be careful of ultra-sheer blouses or dresses without the right underpinning. They can look unintentionally revealing and require constant adjusting. ‘Again, it’s not that you can’t do it,’ says Rochelle, ‘but I would say be mindful of choosing these. Too sheer without balance can feel impractical or overexposed, while layering in heat defeats the purpose of dressing for the climate.’
What to Wear Instead: Light but Opaque Materials or Balanced Sheers
Sheer pieces can work beautifully when layered intelligently. Choose breathable fabrics, such as cotton poplin or chambray, or layer sheer items over a camisole or slip for a more refined finish.
Boden Erma Linen Dress – £159
ShopAspiga A-Line Linen Skirt – £130
ShopThe White Company Linen Gauze Pintuck Boho Blouse – £120
ShopBoden Isabel Sleeveless Lace Top – £89
Shop
Avoid Focusing on Trends Rather Than Refining Personal Style
Jumping on every micro-trend—whether it’s extreme cuts or statement details—can make outfits feel inconsistent rather than considered. ‘Dressing well isn’t necessarily about following trends—it’s about being intentional, showing personality and owning your look.’
What to Wear Instead: Timeless Pieces Styled with a Modern Edge
Classic staples—like a crisp shirt dress or well-cut trousers—feel fresh when paired with contemporary accessories or updated proportions. ‘Timeless pieces can be the foundation, but styling is what makes them feel current.’
Hobbs Alderton Striped Crochet Shirt – £79.20
Was £99
ShopBoden Straight Leg Chino Trousers – £85
ShopBoden Chino Shorts – £55
ShopBoden Short Sleeve Linen Shirt – £69
Shop
Avoid Footwear Missteps
Heavy trainers, overly worn sandals, or shoes that don’t match the outfit’s tone can detract from an otherwise put-together look. ‘This is often overlooked, but it’s where an outfit can quietly fall apart,’ Rochelle confirms. ‘Overly worn sandals, unsupportive soles, or styles that don’t align with the rest of the look can undermine everything.’
What to Wear Instead: Clean, Well-Maintained Shoes
Simple leather sandals, streamlined trainers or low block heels in good condition will elevate your look and pull everything together effortlessly. ‘In heat, simplicity and quality always read better than excess—just make sure your footwear is aligned with your outfit,’ Rochelle advises.
Mint Velvet Charley Woven Pumps – £89
ShopGabor Jangle Slip On Metal Trim Detail Loafers – £95
ShopM&S Canvas Plimsoll Trainers – £26
ShopJohn Lewis Lanie Buckle Sandals – £71.20
Were £89
Shop
