Finally the long-awaited sun has graced us with it's presence. We've moaned, whinged and complained about the 10 month winter we've just endured to, at long last, be rewarded with sunshine and soaring temperatures. But wait! What is that I hear? More moaning, whinging and complaining about the heat. So how do you keep your cool and look effortlessly so when it's touching 30 degrees out there?
Let me share my top five tips to help you find your perfect Summer maxi so that you don't lose your head whilst all about you are losing theirs. First let me tell you that the maxi is not for everyone. Some petite frames will find a maxi swamps them, other taller figures might find they are not 'maxi' enough. If you do want to give the maxi a go there is oodles of choice and they provide an easy throw on outfit for any summery day of the week.
1 Fabric
When it comes to staying cool in hot weather, the fabric you choose can make a significant difference. The best fabrics to wear for keeping cool include cotton, linen, bamboo, rayon, chambray or a jersey. These tend to be breathable, moisture-wicking and soft enough for comfort. Look also for performance fabrics, previously intended for the sportswear industry but now branching out into dresses and other everyday clothing items.
2 Foundation garments
It might sound counter-intuitive to add an extra layer but a temperature regulating slip worn under your maxi will work wonders. These are designed to keep you cooler in warmer climes and can even prevent unsightly sweating. What's more they will also give you a smoother silhouette and added confidence if you are wearing clingier or sheer fabrics where your lumps and bumps can be on show.
3 Colour
If you even know who I am you will know I am all about wearing the colours that make you look and feel your best. However when the sun comes out in full force you may find it's the lighter colours from your palette you'll be wanting to wear. Dark colours absorb more light and, therefore, heat whilst light colours will reflect the sunlight helping to keep you cooler. And did you know that psychologically lighter colours will make us feel cooler just by their appearance. So opt for the whites or creams in your palette, the lighter colours, pastels, beiges and light greys for optimal cooling effects.
4 Style and Fit
Sooo many styles to choose from. It can be tricky to find your perfect fit. When keeping cool you should avoid anything too tight or clingy. Looser flowing styles will allow the air to flow around your body. Consider that even if an item is tight around your arms or shoulders the discomfort is heightened in the heat. If you have a curvy physique opt for shirring around the waistline rather than tight belts. For straighter bodies try non-waisted dresses. If you are petite try less voluminous styles that fit closer to your body so as not to overpower your neat frame.
5 Accessorise
When it's baking it can be tempting to ditch the accessories but when you still need to make an impression consider lighter weight items in impactful colours. You might have just thrown on one clothing item but clever accessorising can make all the difference in appearing like you made so much more effort. Number one accessory for your maxi dress is uber cool shades followed closely by a sun hat. Opt for lighter weighted resin bracelets and bangles or even rafia earrings. You'll barely know they are there. There are so many alternatives to the usual metals and stones that can feel too heavy in the heat.
So there you have it. For hot at home days throw on a maxi and flip flops or even stay barefooted as you fluctuate your time in an out of doors. Need to make a public appearance? Follow my accessorising tips and maybe swap out your flip flops for that Summer fave, the espadrille, slick of lippy, cool shades and you can sashay out in style despite the sweltering climes of the bustling city, town or supermarket. Oh and remember, if you are popping to the supermarket the aircon can feel luxuriously welcome as you glide through the automatic doors but as you approach aisle 3 you may actually be feeling a bit chilly so take your trusty denim jacket to pop on over your maxi for that timeless summertime combo. I love it!
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