I’m a size 14 fashion editor and always struggle with heatwave outfits but these are my flattering pieces from £2.50
TEMPERATURES are rising – as is anxiety over what to wear.
Here, deputy fashion editor Abby McHale reveals what is in and what’s out for summer 2025.
LOOSE TROUSERS
Loose trousers are great for warm weather and the high street is full of them.
Made from linen or cotton, bag your flowy, elasticated trousers now.
- Trousers, £20, Tu at Sainsbury’s – buy here
DRAPE TOPS
The drape top is the design of the season – slightly asymmetric in design and made from ruched fabric that sits on one shoulder and the top of your other arm.
- Top, £19.99, Mango – buy here
LONG SHORTS
Short shorts are out – this year it’s all about length.
From bermuda style denims to long line linen pairs, they’re ideal for holidays but work well with a shirt, for the office, too.
- Shorts, £29.99, Zara – buy here
FISHERMAN SANDALS
Take sandal inspo from fishermen – chunky straps make for sturdy support, give plenty of breathing room and are bang on trend.
- Sandals, £32.99, New Look – buy here
POPLIN SKIRTS
Poplin skirts are light, breezy and so easy to wear for any occasion. They cinch in at the waist before flaring out in an a-line style to your calf.
- Skirt, £45, John Lewis – buy here
SHIRT DRESS
Shirt dresses are everywhere at the moment. It’s an easy throw on option and you can opt for a belted version or something more flowy. For fuller busts, size up and add a belt.
- Dress, £22.99, H&M – buy here
LINEN SHIRT
A failsafe option for the warm weather, a linen shirt is a wardrobe staple that can be worn buttoned up or open with something underneath as an alternative to a jacket.
- Shirt, £18, F&F at Tesco – buy here
GRAPHIC T-SHIRT
Don’t be afraid of wearing a graphic slogan t-shirt. You’re spoilt for choice on the high street and no you won’t look like an oversized child. They are on trend and fun.
- T-shirt, £15.99, Reserved – buy here
OVAL SUNGLASSES
From Rihanna to Kendall Jenner hop on board the celebrity accessory trend for oval sunglasses.
They will instantly make your outfit look more chic.
- Sunglasses, £2.50, Primark – buy here
WOVEN BUCKET HAT
A hybrid of a straw hat and gig-goer’s essential, not only will the woven bucket hat keep you cool and UVs off your face and neck, it looks expensive too.
- Hat, £17.50, M&S – buy here
AND WHAT NOT TO WEAR THIS SEASON…
DITCH DENIM JACKETS
Let go of your fitted denim jacket and opt for something more lightweight – denim is heavy and having it fitted is a no go in the heat. Plus, it’s just a bit outdated.
Choose lighter materials such as linen and cotton instead.
NOT-SO COOL IN A KAFTAN
From the seventies to noughties women have long reached for the go-to kaftan cover up when the sun shines, but a more versatile co-ord has replaced this look.
Go for a cotton or crochet co-ord set that covers, keeps you cool and you can wear to your local park, abroad or a pub garden.
RIP THE LBD
The iconic Little Black Dress has run out of steam, well, for summer anyway.
This summer the designer brands and high street giants have declared the LWD – that’s the Little White Dress – the look of the season.
Be it mini lengths or long, sleeveless or not – just make sure it’s white.
REACHED PEAK CAPS
Slogan caps with holiday destinations or “pass the prosecco” emblazoned on the top have had their day, this year it’s all about bucket hats but more specifically the woven style inspired by must-have brand The Row and their £640 version.
SEE YOU SLIPS
Satin slip skirts are slinky and sexy with heaps of appeal but they’re not for summer.
Imitation satin (aka polyester) is too hot for rising temperatures and shows sweat. Swap for flattering A-line midis in cotton to stay cool. Crisp white will go with everything.