Natural Selection

PART II: WHITE HEAT

This post is adapted from my fashion feature in Stylist Magazine. — *This post is adapted from my fashion feature in* *Stylist Magazine*.

Immersed, as I am, in the full heat of a London summer, I’m relieved to have packed my go-to colour of the season - WHITE! It may only be a psychological effect (scientists dispute the theory), but I truly feel cooler, lighter and fresher wearing white in the searing heat.

Linen lovers will adore this dress! The natural creases mean less time ironing and more time enjoying your holiday! It’s a breathable, natural fabric and the loose cut and airy style allow for maximum ventilation, without exposing too much skin. The high neck and maxi length offer modesty and a level of cover that’s more cooling than dressing in barely there pieces. Essentially optional, the waist belt can be tied loosely in the high heat of midday.

~ Style Notes ~

Keep styling minimal with neutral-toned or matching white accessories. Here, I’ve mixed the two - using shell, wood, straw, tigereye and white patent leather - in a range of warm tones, textures and natural materials that harmonise to bring a subtle glamour to this summer maxi.

~ Shop the Look ~

Sadly, the white linen maxi sold out before I could publish! I’ve located two gorgeous alternatives which you can click to shop, above. One is a very good, linen-mix dupe (top) and the other is a cotton off-the-shoulder dress, with a frilled hem that echoes my dress. Similarly, the little little shell-embellished bag has gone, but these 2 options are super-cute substitutes - one pearl-adorned and the other cowrie-shell-encrusted! My Gucci sandals are my own and many seasons old, so I’ve linked this year’s slider alternative for you.

Very Versatile

A white dress is the ultimate, go-anywhere option, whether staycaytioning or roaming further afield. It works equally well at the beach bar, in a searing hot city, or in when relaxing in a little village gîte in the heart of the French countryside! A great choice for summer days or nights, a bright white maxi dress is a classic that you’ll wear season after season.

Keep me posted!

Natural Selection ~ In Detail

~ Beauty Notes ~

Given my recent revelations about my fear of flashing the flesh in summer (due to my sun damaged skin) I thought I’d add a little insight into my summer beauty favourites so you can feel as confident and glamorous as they make me feel!

Clearly, the topknot is a year-round staple, but in summer it’s a regular necessity, whether you’ve jumped out the pool to run to the shops or are going from beach to bar, tying long hair up in a knot is a chic and cool option that only takes a minute, an elastic and a couple of hair pins. Add a slick of gel for that sleek, wet look that screams “summer”!

I’ve used Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs on my upper body here - it’s waterproof on the skin, but washes off if you get it on your dress (linked below)!

Vita Liberata Trystal Mineral Powder claims to offer a ‘fake tan’ effect in a powder, and, while I think it washes off completely, it is the best bronzer I’ve found, so I still use it over my light, Almost Powder Clinique foundation to add that sun kissed glow without the UVA!

These über sexy lashes are my favourite. I found them for my wedding (4 years ago) and haven’t worn anything else since! They’re by Illamasqua and they’re linked (and on sale) above.

Finally, my lips! I’ve used a deep, chocolatey-brown, semi-matte finish lipstick by NARS for a more neutral alternative to red. I’ve linked the colour above - it’s called ‘Pigalle’.

If you missed Part I: Bohemian Rhapsody, catch up here! Part III: Tonal Texture Fest coming soon - stay tuned!

As always, I’m delighted you stopped by. Share your concerns about wearing white in summer below [or send a private message here] and I’ll be sure to get back to you with my best advice!

Thanks!

Nx