Sorry, isn’t it supposed to be summer?
April showers bring May flowers; June rain is just a pain. Yes, we’re fed up with Mother Nature’s inability to get her s**t together, too. As one colleague commented this morning (making the entire digital desk squirm uncomfortably): ‘It’s very moist out, isn’t it?”
By now we should be flouncing around in dreamy guipure lace dresses and pretty sandals, surely? Instead we’re grappling between our sunnies and an umbrella, while our new suede sandals come to their untimely demise.
You can stare out that window all you want, but you can't will away those dark clouds. The only solution to surviving an unpredictable British summer is to make your wet-weather wares something to look forward to: killer patent boots, cool cropped jeans, and lightweight water-proof jackets that you can drape across your shoulders when it heats up (we’re feeling optimistic, people).
Our new motto? It's raining, it's pouring — but your style shouldn't be boring. Read our easy-peasy guide to surviving the fickle weather.
Sleeveless jackets
They have a history of being perennially naff, and the word ‘sleeveless’ tends to elicit horror in most women, but don’t run a mile just yet. Designed to be slipped on over something long-sleeved; this is a versatile layering tool that fashion stylists love. Whistles Mia Sleeveless Textured Jacket, £100
Patent boots
As we mentioned suede is out, as is leather sadly (rain wreaks havoc with it too). Patent leather is a rain warrior however so invest in some great boots with a waterproof finish. L.K. Bennett Shelley Block Heeled Ankle Boots, £175
Cropped jeans/Culottes
Thankfully both of these are bang-on-trend right now. There are heaps of options available but we recommend investing in a pair that will see you through to autumn/winter. For those who work in more formal offices, opt for khaki colours or tailored culottes. See by Chloé Cropped mid-rise flared jeans, £200
Canvas bag
See above, leather and rain don’t mix. So, put your butter-soft leather satchel into hibernation and opt for a durable canvas number such as this Balenciaga beauty. Balenciaga Bucket leather-trimmed canvas shoulder bag, £575
Light-weight trench coat
This classic coat looks just as cool belted up against the elements as it does sat across your shoulders. The high street is full of them but those looking for something long term, Burberry and Barbour should be your first port of call. Topshop Military Trench Coat, £79
A jolly brolly
If you’re touting around a grim looking black number, ditch it immediately. Something cheerful will ward away rain in a fun way. Topshop Duck Handle Umbrella, £16
A wide brimmed hat
We love a hat. It requires less faff than an umbrella and doubles-up as a cover up for third-day hair. Fashion editors love Maison Michael, but Topshop has plenty of lower priced alternatives. Maison Michel Henrietta Wool Hat, £555