Looking cool in the heat

To say that the weather lately has been erratic is an understatement. It seems climate change has finally caught up with us and we are paying for our environmentally unfriendly ways of the past decades now. In addition to being plagued by freak thunderstorms and flash floods (read about our rainy day fashion solutions here), the temperature has also climbed to an all time high. However, it is still not reason enough to be sloppy with your dressing. Here are some tips to looking cool in the unforgiving summer heat.

Jersey 

Jersey, or more commonly know as the ‘T-shirt fabric’, is your best friend on a scorching hot day. This ultra comfortable, crease-free cotton blend is incredibly easy to pull off. Previously the go-to piece for casual weekend lunches, jersey has become acceptable even for dressier events–if you style it correctly, that is. For instance, pairing a soft jersey tank top with a feminine, printed silk skirt is quirky but stylish. Embellish with statement jewellery and slip into four inches platform heels before hitting town for a glitzy night out.

Quality but affordable t-shirts are as elusive as the Holy Grail. Get your fix from Vol.Ta, which makes possibly the best basic tees in Singapore. Coming in neutral shades like black, white and grey, these are perfect for layering under a light blazer. The thoughtful menswear label has also introduced a ‘XS’ sizing to cater to its legions of female fans.

Although jersey is traditionally associated more with street wear, its versatility means that it can be used for more lady-like styles. The jersey maxi dress is a case in point. Loose and flowy, it is great for beating the heat without compromising on style. Opt for one with a loud print to crank up the flamboyance. A more understated alternative is the short tank dress, which will look perfect with leather T-bar sandals.

Light dresses

There is nothing simpler than throwing on a dress when it is bright and sunny outside. I have learned to be discerning earlier in my ‘shopping career’ and to hunt for gems in the most unlikely of places. They may not have the best reputation for quality wares, but chain stores like Cotton On and Hula & Co. stock surprisingly wearable basics. In particular, they specialise in the t-shirt dress, that ubiquitous summer style.

If you are looking for something more exclusive, small independent labels is the answer. The Summer 2010 collection from Vain & Vapid features sweet, girlie cotton dresses in very limited runs. This means that you will never have to fear running into someone with the same outfit. Aghast! These lovely dresses sell out fast so subscribe to the label’s blog to keep up to date with new releases.

Closer to home, Chalk has just launched its high summer collection, named “dreams of Pandora” after French blogger Louise. Using light materials like seersucker cotton and silk satin, these pretty pieces are as comfortable as they are pretty. In pastel and nude shades, expect to find the label’s signature bow details and flattering cuts.

Shirts

This year, I have been stocking up on shirts. Despite the fact that they are a wardrobe staple, I have always found it difficult to find shirts that fit me well. However, I have discovered the potential of the casual shirt, which can be dressed up or down. Having come back in vogue, they are also more readily available in shops.

One of my most well kept fashion secrets is the cotton shirts from Muji. As an Asian brand, the sizing and fit of these shirts tend to suit local women better. Made of organic cotton, there is a soft, luxurious feel to these shirts. In classic plaid and checks, they reflect the Japanese minimalist design sensibility. Breathable and lightweight, they look smart without being stifling.

Rockstar and its sister store, Soon Lee, are also great places to shop for casual shirts. The pieces are carefully sourced from all over the world and often feature interesting details and whimsical prints. Be inspired by the well thought out in-store styling and match your shirts to tapered khaki slacks for a preppy, geek chic look.

Shorts/Culottes

There are few things that scream ‘summer’ more than a pair of shorts. Choose the roomier culottes over short shorts if the latter is too skimpy for your liking. Complete the look with a pair of smooth, tanned legs.

To channel the grunge appeal of the biker chick, cut up a pair of old jeans and wear them as shorts. Be sure to make broad uneven snips for a rough-hewed effect that is very trendy now.

Shopping for shorts can be tricky as you need to find a cut that is suitable for your body type. Typically, high street stores like TopShop and Zara are good places to start your hunt. Smaller shops at Far East Plaza and Haji Lane will also widen your options.

Brush on some bronzer and you’re good to go. Look and feel breezy even on the warmest of days!

Dottie Tan

Shopaholic Dottie Tan scours shops—big, small, online and offline—to unearth fashion must-haves and beauty gems that you did not know you needed. That’s until you read her weekly column, Fashion Nation on inSing.com, which tracks her retail adventures. Indulge yourself, go shopping!