It's hard to summon a put-together outfit when the weather is set to scorchingly warm, which is why it's best to rely on pieces that were—quite literally—made for each other: co-ords.
Timed perfectly to coincide with our latest heatwave comes not one but two collaborations that include the kind of co-ord—easy and yet elegant—that will make holiday packing, but also getting dressed for the office, not a cinch but certainly manageable. The first comes from Monikh Dale, who's once again partnered with resort brand Faithfull, creating a capsule, Monikh x Faithfull, that mirrors the minimal silhouettes, and earthy colour palette, of the stylist's own wardrobe.
Alexis Foreman has also collaborated with Asceno, another brand that does swimwear, and summer dressing, with an ease that you'll very much want to emulate. The AF x Asceno co-ords, available in espresso, white and black, are made from materials that will feel cool against the skin (the silk-twill tunic and matching pants set is particularly tantalising).
Keep scrolling to see which co-ords suit which occasions, although, truthfully, anything that feels comfortable will also look chic. And in this weather, that will be music to most ears.
Holiday Co-Ords
Sarah Corbett-Winder's takes a "pile it on" approach to holiday dressing, but grounds the look with this checked two-piece—also from Faithfull. A shirt-and-shorts set is another tried-and-tested co-ord when you're by the beach, allowing you to separate the components and make them work harder (it's not their holiday!) with everything in your suitcase.
Faithfull's elongated bandeau top couldn't be more elegant, either with the matching checked shorts or linen trousers.
These checked shorts can be paired with the intended top or your favourite bikini by the pool.
This vibrant cobalt blue will be particularly appropriate if you're hunkering down for a seaside holiday.
The mid-thigh length of the matching shorts means they can be paired with sandals, heels or sneakers.
Evening Co-Ords
A knitted co-ord works especially well after the sun has set when you might otherwise need a layer. The Monikh x Faithfull collaboration has a plum duo—a slouchy knit that drops off one shoulder plus a maxi skirt—that will be effortless to wear but still make an impact.
Monikh Dale's collaboration with Faithfull, her second to date, contains a knitted co-ord that's perfect for evenings in the city or, equally, by the coast.
This knitted maxi skirt, in a pleasingly deep shade of plum, could also be teamed with a tank.
Massimo Dutti has a wealth of co-ords, but this halter-neck style would look particularly good with ankle-tie gladiator sandals at dusk.
These striped trousers, complete with cummerbund waist, will suit a multitude of occasions.
Office Co-Ords
The office can be an oasis of air-conditioning during the hottest weeks of summer, but you have to get there in one piece. Ironically, a two-piece might be the slickest way to do heatwave workwear; a shirt-and-skirt set being a particularly good option that you can pair with simple leather sandals.
A lightweight jersey shirt can be surprisingly chic—not to mention office-smart—with a matching column skirt.
The skirt can also be weekend-friendly when teamed with a simple white tank.
This sailor-knit is smart but won't feel stifling on your commute into work.
This knitted mini would suit ballet flats, simple leather sandals or loafers, depending on the heat of the day.
Weekend Co-Ords
Many of the above co-ords will be suitable for off-duty, but the truly savvy will shop for a versatile set that can be worn multiple ways (a minidress that can also double as a top or subtly-tailored linen pants that can be styled with their partner or any of your other button-downs).
Matteau's lightweight mini can be worn has a dress or a top, making it even more versatile.
These cotton-poplin trousers are perfect heatwave material.
A simple linen co-ord, which you can mix and match with other pieces, will serve you well over these scorching weekends.
Arket's linen trousers are ever-so-slightly tailored, meaning they're weekend and office-appropriate.
