With Singapore set to see hotter days ahead, and meteorological scientists warning that 2017 could turn out to be the hottest year on record, there’s no better time than now to make your wardrobe work for you for the sweltering heat to come.
By now, you’re probably already used to the simplest tips to keeping cool: wear shorter hems, avoid black…the list is well-known and well-recited. But how do you keep cool during the work week without looking tarty?
With our guide on simple work-appropriate fashion tips, we aim to keep you looking classy without breaking a sweat!
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In the category of “breathable fabrics”, nothing comes close to linen. Thanks to the looser weave that is employed in the production of linen, it’s great for keeping your body ventilated in hotter climates.
To make linen look more presentable in the office, try a striped patterned blouse, and wear that with a pair of trousers in a complimentary colour (think cream, blue or even olive).
Shirt, $59, from Marks & Spencer.
If you need to get to a work meeting, then dressing up a little might be wise.
But instead of throwing on a scratchy shift dress, why not pick a wrap dress that’s made from a broderie anglaise cotton! The little embroidered eyelets not only add texture to your overall appearance, they also help to keep you feeling cool.
Plus, this wrap dress is super-slimming on problem areas such as the hips and waist, which is always an added bonus.
Diane von Furstenberg dress, $272.20 (US$179.10), from theoutnet.
A pair of shoes that feature perforation or cut-out shapes can be an easy way to ensure those peds are aired all the time (no one likes a gnarly-smelling pair of feet!), and these shoes are a stylish choice for casual Fridays. All you need is a midi skirt and a cute tee to finish!
Shoes, $69.90, from Stradivarius.
Again, this is another wardrobe option that pulls double-duty. The benefits of sunglasses to your eyes are obviously endless, but when the sun is beating down more relentlessly, then it becomes an essential to have with you always.
Furthermore, you get to add a pop of colour to your look! If silver isn’t your cup of tea, then try a bold shot of red or a classic horn-rimmed pair.
Sunglasses, $435 (US$286), from gentlemonster.com.
Forgot to bring those sunnies with you? Then reach out for the nearest floppy hat and throw that on in its place.
Plus, when the humidity starts frizzing up your hair, this will come in as a handy accessory to hide under.
Hat, $63.90, from Topshop.
The harmful things that prolonged exposure does to your skin is endless, so always remember to keep a bottle of sunblock on your vanity to protect your skin from the UV rays of the sun.
Even if you don’t plan on staying out in the open for long, it’s important to know that staying in the shade doesn’t eliminate 100% of the UV rays. So when in doubt, just apply a thin layer of sunblock!
Kate Somerville Prime Protection Dual Action Primer SPF 15, $76.
There’s a reason why Airism is so well-loved by customers from tropical countries. Developed by clothing giant Uniqlo, the range is scientifically engineered to wick away sweat, keep you odourless and help you feel breezy amidst the heat.
Pacifica Underarm Deodorant Wipes with Coconut Milk & Essential Oils, $14.
We love the Underarm Deodorant Wipes from Pacifica for a multitude of reasons, paramount of which being that it’s a quick fix for when we feel uncomfortably sticky, and it’s gentle on the skin.
Free from aluminium, parabens and other stuff you don’t want your skin absorbing, they are such an underrated addition to every woman’s bag.
Pacifica Underarm Deodorant Wipes with Coconut Milk & Essential Oils, $14.
Nothing like a colourful silk scarf to help liven up your dull work wardrobe! All you need to do is to twirl a scarf up and weave it into your ponytail, before pinning it up into an artistic chignon.
Scarf, $17.90, from Zara.
When all else fails, and the heat has gotten the better of you, run off into the nearest mall and order some refreshing ice tea for a much-needed pit-stop.
Or better yet, check out Nesture’s selection of birds nest drinks and desserts at their super chic café, and enjoy a cold one in the respite of the air conditioning.
Pacifica Underarm Deodorant Wipes with Coconut Milk & Essential Oils, $14.