Helen Skelton’s chino shorts and knitted top is an easy summer outfit when it’s too hot for jeans, or you’re bored of dresses
Her shorts are the versatile summer staple I didn’t know I needed
We might not quite be in heatwave territory at the moment, but it's still warm, and it's set to get even hotter next week. Too hot for jeans most days, and if you're anything like me, you're over wearing the same few summer dresses on repeat.
Helen Skelton provided a stylish alternative at just the right time, posting some photos on Instagram in which she's wearing a full look by Varley. It's a brand you might associate more with activewear, but as Helen's outfit proves, they do so much more than just leggings.
She paired the Varley chino shorts in khaki with a matching tank vest and it's such a stylish yet sporty combination. The shorts are loose and comfortable, and the length is just right to be flattering for anyone. Did I mention both pieces are now reduced in the sale? Bonus!
Currently 30% off, these chino shorts will be your go-to in the next heatwave. I find shorts tricky, but these offer a great amount of coverage and will work with everything from T-shirts to linen shirts. They're great for packing in your holiday suitcase, too.
This tank top is a really chic way to add some texture to an outfit, but still keep cool. I expected it to cost far more than £55, which is especially good value when you consider you'll be wearing it long into autumn with jeans and tailored trousers.
Helen topped off her look with a woven visor that looks just like this Amazon option. It's foldable so you can pack it in your holiday suitcase, and one reviewer explained: "Bought this visor as I don't like wearing hats but sometimes need to cover my face especially when reading... I like the fold up option as it doesn't take up much space in my beach bag. Very quickly unrolls when I need the shade and fastens securely with the velcro. Doesn't get crumpled so still looking good. Definite must for when I travel to sunny climates."
These shorts don't have pleats like Helen's, but they're a similarly flattering length. For just £20, they're spot on for putting in your beach bag to throw on with your swimsuit after a dip.
Neutral hues particularly complement khaki colours, and I can't believe these Birkenstocks are in the sale at Flannels, too. The footbed takes a bit of time to get used to, but once you do, Birkenstocks are truly worth the investment.
These slim-fit shorts are available in two different lengths and feel really smart when worn with a belt. One customer notes: "They have a little bit of stretch and good pockets."
Although we can't see Helen's shoes, her waterproof Teva sandals would have worked really well with the slightly sporty feel of this outfit, or a classic pair of Birkenstock sandals, like the ones I've suggested above, would also be a good option.
She added a gold chain necklace to complement the earthy khaki colour of her outfit, plus a pair of tortoiseshell sunglasses, which rounded off the look perfectly.
It's an ensemble that was right at home on Helen in the rolling hills of the Lake District, but would look just as chic on the beach on holiday or back home for a city commute.
