Breathable, comfortable and stylish, here's what to wear in the heat to help you keep your cool

What to wear in the heat feels like a mild description of the current heatwave. With red weather warnings and temperatures of up to 40 degrees predicted over the next few days, if you're looking at your wardrobe and asking yourself what should I wear today, you are not alone.

Now, admittedly, most of us want to wear nothing, or at the very least stand by the open fridge; however, if you have to get dressed, I've compiled some failsafe outfit formulas that will allow you to feel a little more put together in the highest of temperatures.

Of course, when it comes to hot weather wardrobe saviours, it isn't actually about wearing the least you can get away with. Sometimes, more in the right fabrics can be more cooling. For example, wearing cotton and linen, naturally breathable fabrics in trousers, midi skirts and shirt shapes that offer good coverage can actually keep you cooler, as it keeps the direct heat of the sun off your skin - which is great from a UV point of view too. So make sure your summer capsule wardrobe has a great selection of cotton tees, linen dresses or separates, and slightly airier shapes to help you feel and look cool.

What to wear in the heat: Fashion editor-approved style ideas to keep you cool

As someone who truly dreads seeing high temperatures incoming, I've had to work hard on staying cool, whilst remaining chic. I've rounded up key styles and silhouettes that will help you feel a little breezier, for all those moments where clothes actually have to go on.

1. Dresses to wear in the heat

The best summer dresses are a must when you're trying to beat the heat. Think the breeziest shapes - such as A-line or trapeze silhouettes that allow for plenty of airflow.

As with every item in this piece, you'll want to look for natural fabrics, such as the best linen dresses, or cotton iterations (but not silk - as this stains with water and sweat easily) to keep you breezy as temperatures soar. While black dresses might be your preference most of the year, in hot weather, you're better off in lighter and brighter hues, as these absorb the sun less than black.

Relaxed fits will allow for air flow and stop you feeling trapped and clammy, with sleeves offering upper arm coverage and added sun protection. Look for designs that flare out over your lower torso - not only will they be most comfortable in hot weather, but they're also universally flattering.

If you're worried about thigh rub as temperatures go up, I understand, but a dress will still be one of the coolest options - think of the air flow. Try a pair of the best anti-chafing shorts (in a breathable fabric) under your dress to help protect your thighs without compromising on the rest of your outfit. And this Amazon pair is a particular favourite.

2. Tops to wear in the heat

Once again, cotton, linen and other natural fabrications are your warm-weather heroes when it comes to tops. From the best t-shirts to great shirts - natural fabric iterations will offer greater breathability that you'll welcome in a heat wave.

When it comes to t-shirts, fitted designs (a little added jersey for contour is fine) will still be comfortable in rising temperatures, but more relaxed silhouettes do allow for added airflow.

For the best shirts, try 100% cotton or linen shirt styles, which, as previously mentioned, will help to keep you cool, and picking more oversized iterations will be more comfortable for a full day out and about.

While silk is a natural fabric, when it comes to what to wear in hot weather, it's not always the best option. Silk marks easily, and degrades with heat and perspiration, meaning that sweat marks are likely to show and will leave a stain on the garment - and no one wants that.

3. Skirts to wear in the heat

Less isn't necessarily more when it comes to what to wear in the heat. So while wearing a mini skirt might feel like the ideal choice for climbing temperatures, you might be better off donning a long skirt outfit or a midi instead. The additional length offers extra coverage and shade (keeping you a little cooler in the process), while selecting more A-line or circular skirt shapes will help with maximising airflow, which will naturally help with beating the heat.

Skirts are of course, more airy than trousers, but wider silhouettes and breathable fabrics will still keep you cooler than, say, a synthetic slip skirt - although these aren't totally off the table if that's your preferred shape, just maybe reserve these for outfits in the cooler part of warm, say 25 degrees - it's all relative, right?

As with all of the best hot-weather clothing, avoid synthetic fabrics, which can leave you feeling extra warm and sticky.

4. Trousers & shorts to wear in the heat

While fabric is important here, you will also want to consider the weight of the fabric. Plenty of the best jeans are made from 100% cotton, but in a heatwave, denim is far too heavy, despite its fabric composition. Opt for lighter fabrics, in more relaxed fits to help increase airflow, and with wide leg trousers still being a key summer silhouette, there are some great options available.

When it comes to shorts, while Daisy Dukes might feel seasonally appropriate, looser, straighter cut Bermuda shorts will be more comfortable in hot weather.

If you're looking for summer outfits for work, opt for tailored trousers in neutral hues and natural fabrications. Swap skinny fits, for high-waisted, wide-leg styles for a torso lengthening look that will keep you feeling professional without overheating - team with silky cotton t-shirts, or light cotton blouses.

Linen is a great fabric option for trousers, although be aware it creases pretty badly, particularly around the crotch area once you've sat down, so you may want to look for a linen-blend that will crease less dramatically - or wear a longer, tunic-style top over them. If you're wondering how to wear linen trousers for work, opt for a slightly more tailored fit and keep your top half neat and relatively contoured.

Elasticated waists are also more comfortable in hot weather as they're less constricting and give you that little bit more breathing room in sweltering heat.

5. Shoes to wear in the heat

When it comes to shoes to wear in the heat, open-toe shoes or your best sandals are an obvious choice. Similarly with clothing, material still plays a role here, with natural cork and leather much better at regulating body temperature than vinyl or plastic designs, which can contribute to sweat build-up, making for a rather uncomfortable experience. If you want to wear closed-toe shoes or trainers, then look for trainers that have mesh panels to help with breathability, and make sure to opt for cotton socks as these will help with airflow.

What not to wear in the heat

Avoid synthetic fabrics in a heatwave as they will trap air and make for a much hotter and sweatier environment. Synthetic fabrics do not allow air to easily pass through, meaning a potential build-up of perspiration - not something any of us want.

Tight fitting clothing will also stop air flowing through your clothes and reaching your skin, so where possible, avoid tailored clothes or anything too bodycon.

Is it better to wear shorts or trousers in the heat

Shorts will expose more of your lower leg, giving greater opportunity for airflow. However, it is largely down to personal preference, as fabric and silhouette of both the trousers and shorts play a key role in how cool or warm they are.

It is best to avoid tight-fitting clothing and heavy or synthetic fabrics. While jeans are made from cotton, due to their weight, they are best avoided in hot weather. On that basis, while denim shorts are associated with summer, they could end up being warmer than a pair of linen palazzo trousers.

When choosing between shorts or long leg trousers, regardless of length, look for breezy, looser fits and light and breathable fabrics to stay as cool as possible.