Look good, feel great, stay cool with iStylista

While we may be delighted with this heat wave hitting the U.K, the pressure is on to find fool proof ways to dress to impress whilst still looking and feeling cool. This can be difficult to achieve sometimes, so here are my top 10 tips to staying fresh, stylish - and cool! - right through the summer.

1. The hand fan. Invest in a hand held fan for the summer sun as China and Japan are not the only countries where ladies can get away with using fans. These wonderful, useful accessories come in a variety of colours, textures and patterns, so they are stylish as well as being compact. The refreshing addition to your outfit that can slot right into your hand bag. 

 

2. The Skort. Yes, this is a skirt/short collaboration, which is ideal for this warm season as tight fitting clothing is a big NO NO for the next two months. The skort allows you to have the freedom of a skirt while also providing coverage if the wind blows!

 

3. Cool off regularly. Make sure you have plenty of breaks, if you are lucky enough to have free time to soak up the sun, and either take frequent showers or, if you cant get to a shower, carry some wet wipes in your bag and wipe yourself down when you feel you are getting too hot. Always remember to reapply your suntan lotion afterwards.

 

4. Hats on. To quote an old saying - "if you want to get ahead, get a hat!", and make sure you cover your scalp, and the nape of your neck, either with a stylish hat or a scarf. A lot of people underestimate sunstroke but if it catches you out it can mean bed rest for around two days, resulting in you feeling very ill and missing all the sun, fun and relaxation. So be safe, be fashion forward and enjoy your summer.

 

5. Sandals. Care for your feet, as sweaty feet can be unpleasant, uncomfortable, ruin your day and lose you friends! So always make sure to wear a good pair of sandals, to get some breeze to your toes and allow them to remain fresh and dry, especially if you are on your feet all day.

 

 

6. Linen. This is the perfect fabric for summer, keeping you casual, chilled, stylish and able to move around with no restrictions, while keeping the heat at bay. Say yes to linen shorts, shirts, trousers and jackets.

 

7. Sunglasses. Cover your eyes with some stylish shades, while protecting your eyes from the sun. This is definitely an essential "must do", as it prevents you from damaging your eyes and getting those ageing wrinkles. Who needs surgery…..?

 

8. Kaftan. The netted fabric of a kaftan will both protect you from sun damage and keep you fresh and cool, coming in a variety of colours and patterns means that you can literally live in them all summer long.

 

9. Bikini. If you are lucky enough to have a swimming pool, or know some one that does, then waste no time in getting that bikini/ swimsuit out. There is a perfect swimsuit out there for every one, whatever shape or size you are, so don’t be shy because in this weather you will need to cool off by diving right in.

 

10. Non fabric picnic mat. Find a bamboo mat for your carefree, summer picnic, instead of a fabric mat. They rarely heat up and don’t cause you to perspire, so you will be able to enjoy your long, relaxing day without having to worry about staying dry and sweat free.

Follow these top 10 tips and you are guaranteed to look good, feel great and stay cool through the long summer days (and nights)!