How to keep your cool in the heat
YAY! Summer is here. But while shorts, a vest top and no bra are ok for lazing around in the garden of a weekend they might not be quite so appropriate in a work setting (even on Zoom). This week I’m providing a one stop shop for summer stuff. I’m sharing a few tips around how to dress for the heat without stripping off, how to adapt your make up for humid weather, PLUS a few tips to consider when choosing your shades and swimwear.
What to wear for work when it's hot
wear lighter neutrals- white, tan, taupe, grey or a crisp white and navy combo
wear nude underwear if you are wearing light colours - it does not show through clothes as much as white
keep your fabrics light weight but not too lightweight or floaty
cotton, bamboo, viscose, linen and silk are good, linen blended with something will crease less
white or dense patterned fabrics are best for not showing damp patches around the armpits
the more skin you show, the more casual you will look
think light layers if you are going from heat outside to cool air con (nippy is not good)
only go without hosiery if it's appropriate
try Bloomin’ Sexy anti chafe knickers if you get chub rub
those little sock things inside your shoes will stop your feet rubbing
try a hair up style to keep neck cooler
omit the necklace and wear statement earrings instead
sleeveless may not be appropriate but try a short sleeve or cap sleeve
try and find an unlined jacket if you have to wear one = one less layer
a collared shirt looks more professional if you don’t wear a jacket
soft and wide clothes are cooler than fitted - think wide legged palazzo pants, wrap style and tie front tops will stop you looking shapeless
cotton, canvas or perforated leather shoes will keep your feet cool if your dress code does not allow sandals
keep a fan in your bag for emergencies
And finally - warm weather does not change the fact that what you wear has an impact on how you are perceived. You still want to maintain your professional credibility.
Remember the A, B, C of dress codes
A - APPROPRIATE - consider your environment and audience
B - BOUNDARIES - if you can see up it, down it or through it you may be crossing them!
C - CONSISTENT - if you want to keep your brand and professional credibility intact it's essential
Make-up tips for hot weather
less is more as it can slide off in the heat
use a hydrating, oil-free moisturiser that is at least SPF30
light-weight bb creams provide radiance and minimise imperfections
gel/cream blushers are more lightweight than powder and sit better on top of bb cream
for oily or shiny skin try blotting face papers rather than powder that might go claggy
look for products with ‘long-lasting’, ‘waterproof’ and ‘water-resistant’ on the packaging
waterproof mascaras are essential as normal ones can melt, flake and smudge in the heat
gel eyeshadows in glass pots or as eye crayons are long lasting
avoid gloss, heavy creams, powders and soft eye pencils – they can melt
lip stains are a great alternative to lipstick as is a coloured lip balm which will keep your lips hydrated too
a spritz of Tropic Vitamin Toner is lovely and refreshing and can be used over make-up, it will actually help set it as long as you’re not too heavy handed
Swimwear to suit your body shape
If you are looking for swimwear now you might have left it a bit late, but you could pick up a fab bargain in the sales.
Not sure which shapes or styles to go for? Here are a few tips for you…
invest in bra sized swimwear if you are well endowed
solid colour side panels give the illusion of a smaller middle
mix and match tops and bottoms to suit your body shape
shorts styles can make your legs look shorter/wider
strapless and bandeau styles are best for smaller boobs and shoulders
wide straps will make your shoulders look smaller
heavily patterned tankini tops disguise spare tyres
swim dresses are good for creating balance if your shoulders are wide
triangle bikini tops and halter necks are good for column shapes
brief skirts (all in one) are good if you are conscious of your hips/thighs
check out the ranges at the following websites - Figleaves has a specialist sections including maternity and mastectomy, swimwear365 have a body shape calculator and you can shop by body shape all year round
http://www.swimwear365.co.uk/
http://www.bravissimo.com/
http://www.figleaves.com/
How to choose sunglasses
Sunglasses are like any other accessory - they are going to look better and finish off your look if they actually suit you.
They need to reflect you and your personality and unique style. Your sunglasses are an extension of your style personality, admittedly it is an opportunity to break the mode a little because they can be cheap and fun but still make sure they fit with your usual 'look'. No point getting a pair that wouldn't look out of place on Jackie Collins if you're more the John Lennon type.
If you have a rounder face with soft features go for curved, rounded frames. Angular features look best with straight angular frames – mirror your natural face shape
Choose a colour that is in harmony with your complexion, an easy way to do this is to pick out the colour of your eyes
Choose silver frames or cool colours if your skin has cool undertones (pinkish hue), pair with blue/black or grey lenses. Gold, tortoiseshell or warm colours with brown lenses if you have warm undertones to your skin
Think about the type of clothes you like to wear, do you prefer bright, bold colours or soft muted shades in your wardrobe? Your specs will look better if they are harmonious
Also, consider light or dark frames, when you try them on are you wearing them or is the frame wearing you? If you have delicate, pretty features and light hair a pair of Harry Hill style glasses could be far too overpowering
I hope you have found those tips useful and by sharing them with you I haven’t jinxed the weather.
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