What is the best thing to wear in a real heatwave, one where it’s so hot that you can’t safely sit outside in it? Yes, the exact kind of heatwave happening in the UK now.
You want to wear the lightest, airiest garment possible, one made from a fabric that wicks away sweat, doesn’t cling, and as a bonus contains UVA and UVB protection.
Does such a fabric exist? Yes, it does! AIRism from Uniqlo, and this chic and easy loose T-shirt dress, which costs just £24.90 and comes in six colours, from pale yellow and white to black, navy brown and royal blue, is made from it.
Now, normally polyester is a complete no-go for me - I won't buy polyester blends as they can't be recycled and 100% polyester items don't biodegrade and clog up landfills.
But, bear with me here. AIRism is breathable, soft, sweat-wicking, and having tried it myself on a 40 degree day, I can confirm, it feels like wearing next to nothing. It's also worth knowing synthetic fibres protect skin from UVA and UVB rays better than cotton and linen. This combination of factors make having an AIRism dress, one of the few smart things you can do with a synthetic.
If you struggle in 30 plus degrees, need extra protection due to skin cancer concerns or simply doesn’t want to tan, (there are some of us out there!), this throw-on dress which is cut loose to a midi-length so as not to cling - and is available from size XXS (a UK 4) to size XXL (a UK 18-20) - will solve all of your problems, for £24.90.
Better still, due to AIRism's long-lasting qualities, it can be kept for many future heatwave summers in the UK, and – let’s face it - we’re getting more and more of them, plus, of course, hot weather holidays.
To style it couldn’t be simpler, pop on summery slider sandals, elegant cross-over sandals, and a pretty basket bag to start, add sunglasses and a chic, protective hat and you’ll be ready to face the heat feeling both relaxed and protected.
