Sharp summer dressing

All About You online 23.06.2008

No, not the tangy vinaigrette you sprinkle on your salad – this is the definitive guide to dressing smart, whatever the temperature. By Alyson Walsh

Woman wearing a brown top and white jeans
Pictured: Choose a chic neutral colour paletteDeciding what to wear can be difficult when the temperature rises - here's how to stay crisp and composed.

Don't dress too young

It's easy to let your sartorial guard slip when the weather is warmer. Whether commuting to the office, ferrying the kids around or working from home, there really is no excuse for sloppy dressing. Vest tops that reveal bra straps, cut-off denim shorts, five-year-old combats, anything that makes you look like you're off to Glastonbury or worse still, 'The Jeremy Kyle Show', should be banished from your wardrobe immediately. Young people and Kate Moss can get away with this 'festival' look but if you're over 35 it looks like you're trying too hard (or not trying at all). It's time to smarten up.

Layering is key

Look to our Latin chums for tips on how to look smart in summer. Italian-born Elena Sironi, sales and marketing manager for chic fashion label Anonymous by Ross + Bute, says, 'Layering is crucial when moving from high outdoor temperatures into an increasing number of air-conditioned environments. A pretty camisole and cardigan will keep you looking professional and together - be it over a pencil skirt in the city or relaxed with jeans - and quality, natural fabrics will ensure you stay cool.'

Follow our top fashion tips and make sure you have the smartest summer yet

Woman wearing cropped trousers and cardigan
Pictured: Simplicity and natural fabrics are the perfect partnersDo

1. Natural fabrics - cotton, linen and silk - will keep you cool. If you're wearing linen prepare to look fashionably crumpled and don't go head-to-toe. Stick to wide-leg trousers or a fitted white shirt.

2. Black always looks chic with a tan - just be sure to keep it sharp. Old black clothes can look faded or green.

3. Spend money on a good haircut. It's worth splashing out on a decent cut - particularly when it's hot.

4. Tie long hair back in a simple ponytail and add an Alice band or scarf for a totally Italian look.

5. Keep it simple. Try a tunic top or shirt over slim trousers then add a pair of top-flight sunglasses. Choose an effortless summer dress, A-line or shift, and it up with chunky beads.

Don't

1. Never resort to track pants - think how much smarter Coleen McLoughlin looks now that she's ditched the Juicy Couture and gone for a bit of grown-up glamour.

2. Unless you're holidaying in Taormina or New York, avoid buying clothes. That dashiki will look incongruous when you get back from the Caribbean.

3. Don't show your toes without treating yourself to a pedicure first.

4. Avoid the saggy linen dress, guaranteed to make you look instantly middle-aged.

5. Don't forget to sort out your underwear if you're wearing sheer fabrics. We're talking flesh-coloured bra or camisole, nothing fancy.