How to look great this summer, whatever the weather throws at you

It’s not easy to put together a wardrobe for the British summer. Those floaty dresses might look great on the catwalk, but add a changeable climate into the mix and you’ll end up looking more drowned rat than brat pack. If you’re searching for a look that will survive the best of the British weather, then here’s our pick of trends that will keep you looking fab come rain or shine.

Bright colours:

This is one trend that can’t be kept down by bad weather. Throw out your old nude and khaki clothes and revamp your wardrobe with a selection of the latest bold colours. Pastels and sorbets all scream “summer”, with mint green, reminiscent of chic beach huts and Swedish interiors: the perfect choice. If you’re feeling brave, then neons are also big for 2012: orange leads the way, closely followed by blue, hot pink, green and yellow.

You needn’t scare the birds in the local park by going all-out with neons – an electric blue handbag or a pair of bright pink jeans will keep you on par with the latest trends without going overboard.   

Summer suits:

Made in light fabrics with cinched-in waists, with skirts instead of trousers and just a touch of light shoulder padding, summer suits are the perfect way to acknowledge the season has changed, without tempting fate in a sundress. They work well for the office, for garden parties, or worn as separates with a more casual top or skirt for a day at the shops or in the park.

Biker jackets:

Ideal for throwing on over a sundress when the weather turns bad, sawn-off motorbike jackets in pastels, metallics and white are a great way to cover up this summer. The classic parka has also been revamped for summer and makes the perfect rain coat for mizzly days. Next has some great parka coats that are in-line with the latest trends and won’t break the bank.

Finally, black and white stripes and hounds-tooth patterns on summer jackets are set to be big for next year according to fashion experts at mags like Vogue and Marie Claire – so get in there with your purchase early!

The editorial unit