How To Style It In Swinter (The Season We Wish Didn’t Exist)

According to reports, last month was one of the wettest Julys on record. And August? The umbrellas are still our in force.

Although the one thing we’re all very familiar with is the four-seasons-in-one-day unpredictability of the Great British summer – and the fact that we all have to think twice before leaving the house in the morning. But how to avoid being caught out?

Unless you’ve got a weatherman on speed-dial, clever layering is key. Mix new-season buys– statement knitwear, a printed ankle boot – with your summer staples; these kinds of purposeful clashes make for eclectic climate-busting looks.

So who cares if it’s summer, winter or somewhere in between (we’re calling it ‘Swinter’)? There are styling solutions a plenty. Today’s forecast? Light rain, with intervals of polka dots...

1. The hot cold front...

Adding a leather jacket means you'll finally get some wear from that floaty maxidress hanging neglected in your wardrobe.

2. The sudden polar vortex...

Layer chunky knits over mid-length skirts for the artic climate that can be Britain in August, and punctuate with dashes of print.

3. Tropical showers...

We're no strangers to rain, but rain + heat? Leave the fluoro cagoule at home and cover up in a lightweight tunic-and-trouser combo.

4. Prevailing Humidity...

Muggy to the point of frizziness? Rework a slip dress over a simple t-shirt and distract from bad-hair days with oversiex sunnies.

5. Gale-force winds...

Reinvent your summer dungarees for blustery days with a graphic knit and stacked heels.

See more swinter looks in the gallery below...