Seaside

Staying cool this summer

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With summer well and truly here (despite all the rain), it may seem like trying to achieve a new cool, stylish wardrobe is going to be hard work but with many options and variations on offer, it may be easier than you think.

If you work in a stuffy office then the main objective of creating a summer wardrobe is that you always represent a cool, fresh and summer feel. A stylish, confident business look can still be achieved by choosing the correct fabrics and items of clothing to portray a professional image.

A smart office suit does not always entail a three-piece suit. There are many items that can be applied – opting for just a waistcoat is a great example of creating a smart look without feeling the full effect of a jacket. Waistcoats are a great alternative if the workplace or meeting requires a strict business dress code. If a jacket is required, then avoid full lining and instead opt for half lined jackets.

When choosing your shirts, you need to opt for lighter fabrics such as seersucker, linen or cotton. Pale colours will really help with the summer feel and not attract the heat as much as dark colours. You can never go wrong with classic white, pale blues and pale pink shirts – these colours can be matched with all suit types and are very clean cut.

For your trousers, again choosing linen, cotton or a combination of the two will allow a light airy option to keep you cool. If your workplace dress code allows, choosing tailored cuffed trousers can help you go from smart workplace to after work drinks with ease. A lightweight blazer can be added for the evening chill.

As far as summer footwear is concerned, loafers are a great versatile summer shoe that compliments many suit styles. Suede is the best option for the spring and summer months but if a smarter look is required, leather loafers will work well. For a more formal shoe, suede brogues are a great choice, they are light in weight and offer excellent ventilation.

So, by choosing the correct fabrics and selective items you can achieve a wardrobe that portrays a clean, fresh and confident attire that will make people wonder how you manage to stay cool whilst all around you are wilting!

Enjoy the summer and stay cool, calm and collected with your carefully chosen summer wardrobe.

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Dressing perfectly for the British summer

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The British summer season is upon us and making sure we’re suited and booted for any occasion is vital for giving a confident and stylish appearance. With the sun finally making an appearance we can all start to venture out into more lightweight clothing and summery tones.

Opting for cotton, linen or a combination of the two will allow you to feel comfortable and cool as these fabrics allow air to circulate more freely. Cotton is a natural fibre and breathes really well so it’s ideal for those muggy days we get in mid-summer.

Summer is the perfect time to branch out and wear light coloured trousers and shorts. White tailored chinos can sound quite daring but pairing them with a classic oxford shirt in pale blue, along with a dark blue sports jacket can help tone down the trousers and create a smart bold outfit.

If white is not suitable for the occasion, two variations of the same colour will always look good; navy blue chino shorts and a subtle blue shirt or polo shirt will compliment your look – this is a great outfit for those BBQ evenings with friends.

Even your footwear can be bolder as the weather gets kinder – boat shoes, loafers or smart canvass trainers can help keep your feet cool as no socks are required for these types of shoes.

If your summer calendar takes you to a prestigious sporting event such as the Henley Royal Regatta or The Open at Royal Troon, then raising the stakes, and creating a smart tailored look is essential. The Henley Royal Regatta is a perfect excuse to enjoy a quintessentially British event. It is a popular social occasion and there is a party atmosphere in the fashionable pop-up bars that visit from London. Creating a trendy outfit by opting for bright colours and a smart blazer will help you feel at ease in your surroundings.

The Open will showcase some of the best golf in the world. You can watch some of the top players in action and allow yourself to be submerged into the atmosphere by dressing the part. Tailored trousers and a polo shirt is a must. A V-neck sweater is recommended if the weather is looking unpredictable and a smart cap or trilby hat can be worn to complete the look.

Creating a wardrobe that will keep you cool and fashionable is the main objective but keep in mind that the British weather can be unpredictable so having casual and smart jackets to hand will allow you to create an outfit for any occasion.

Enjoy the summer and make sure that you dress perfectly for it!

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How to ace your wardrobe at Wimbledon

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Champagne, strawberries, sunshine – what a great way to spend a summer’s day relaxing at Wimbledon! It is the most prestigious tennis event on the calendar and has been held in the London suburb of Wimbledon since 1877.

With the event taking place from 27th June to 10th July wherever your ticket takes you; Centre Court, the three main courts or a relaxing picnic on ‘Henman Hill’ – here are some tips for what to wear to this wonderfully British occasion.

Your outfit needs to be ready for the British climate so making sure you are prepared for all weathers is a must. One minute you may be relaxing in the summer sun, the next covering up to avoid the torrential downpour! A trilby hat is a great way to avoid the summer heat; it’s stylish, lightweight and matches whatever outfit you choose. An umbrella is an accessory that will no doubt prove very useful. And as far as your attire goes, choosing a breathable fabric, like cotton or linen is a good option for providing a comfortable outfit.

The Royal Box

If you’re lucky enough to be invited to The Royal Box, then you need to make sure that your dressed for the occasion. The Royal Box, in Centre Court is a very respectable seating area which requires all visitors to dress up. A well-tailored suit and tie will help you feel comfortable in your surroundings. Try and avoid wearing an all-black suit and opt for a royal blue or grey. Match this perfectly with a classic shirt in pale hues. Wear with some stylish Derby shoes in black or brown to complete the look.

Center Court (& Courts 1,2 & 3)

Over recent years, the dress code for Centre Court has been relaxed. This means that you may wear ‘smart’ shorts. Tailored shorts with a shirt and sports jacket would be a more comfortable option. If you would prefer, a pair of chinos can be replaced for the shorts. Again opting for a classic pale shirt will be beneficial if the weather is kind to us. Teamed with a dapper blazer, you will look elegant for after match drinks and cocktails. Smart suede loafers will compliment your shorts or chinos stylishly.

Wimbledon Hill

Known as ‘Henman Hill’ or ‘Murray Mound’, this is a more relaxed, casual grassy area which shows all the action on the large screen. As no seating is provided, a comfortable attire is recommended. There is no dress code for Henman Hill but as you may be perched on a blanket on the grass, an outfit that fits nicely and is at ease with your body can help you enjoy your day. Tailored shorts, teamed with a smart polo shirt and classic lace ups in suede or leather will keep your look sharp and admired.

Remember, the weather is known for its unpredictable nature at Wimbledon, so don’t forget your little added extras to make sure the day runs smoothly. And talking of added extras.. enjoy the strawberries and Pimms…..and of course, the tennis!