At risk of sounding like I’m filling an awkward silence on a first date, lovely weather we’re having isn’t it? As I write this feature on heatwave-approved outfits, it’s 28ºC, my laptop is overheating, and a Hugo Spritz with my name on it is calling from somewhere across East London.

Still, deadlines remain. And despite the collective fantasy of spending the next four days horizontal in a park with a paperback and a spread of M&S picky bits, most of us still need outfits that can survive the torrid heat of the Central line in summer. Whenever I look to my summer wardrobe for inspiration in a heatwave, my only focus is to avoid sweat patches, but that doesn’t necessarily mean I’m going to look chic while doing so.

Naturally, the style set already have the answer on how to tackle this. Across Copenhagen, London and Paris, fashion girls have swiftly abandoned anything restrictive, synthetic or emotionally challenging in favour of breezier floaty dresses, sheer textures and pieces that require minimal effort but still look excellent in direct sunlight. There are capris re-entering the chat, little white dresses replacing dependable black slips, and a healthy dose of lace and florals.

The key theme throughout? Clothes that allow air circulation, movement, and the possibility of an impromptu pub garden appearance. Below, the heatwave approved outfits the cool girls are actually wearing this summer – because if temperatures are hitting 30C, you may as well dress like the main character while surviving it.

Retro floral prints