Us Weekly has a managed partnership. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Read more!
My last trip to London was during this summer's record-breaking heat wave. I didn't pack properly (the European city is known for its cool temperatures), but I got some inspiration while shopping thanks to fashionable Londoners embracing the heat with cool clothes.
I saw hundreds of women wearing sleeveless vests, linen pants, smooth mules and cotton sneakers that were far from basic and totally successful in the heat. Taking notes from them, I completely revamped my summer wardrobe – you can too. Shop the heatwave-approved pieces Londoners swear by, below.
I Visited London in Heatwave – 4 Surprising Fashion Trends
Sleeveless Vests
1. Clean the Cut: The silhouette of this classy and modern vest perfectly accentuates curves in all the right places thanks to the square neck and narrow peplum waist.
2. Open: Londoners are putting their own twist on the vest trend in the heat, opting to wear them open with a tank underneath – exactly how this waistcoat-inspired design is on display.
3. Keep Cool: Temperatures have reached 95 degrees Fahrenheit in London, so it's no wonder that many people have opted for breezy linen vests, like this polished halter style that offers plenty of breathability.
4. Peek-a-Boo: These vests are not just for office days. I saw a lot of tie-front options, like this Abercrombie vest, that allowed gals to show more skin and stay cool.
Linen Pants
5. Find a Job: Just imagine – sleek work slacks but made of linen. Every professional woman wore this wide-legged style in Central London.
6. Beach Vibes: Even though London isn't near the coast, I saw plenty of people wearing beach-inspired linen pants to beat the heat.
7. Gingham Galore: Like Americans, Brits can't get enough of Gingham. I've seen endless gingham linen pants, like this style that pairs well with a plain white t-shirt.
8. Cool Girl Vibes: The edgy girls in Hackney were all wearing high-waisted linen trousers. They even inspired me to rock the trend myself – turns out low-rise isn't what it's all about!
Beautiful mules
9. In point: Pointed-toe mules have received a new revival in London. I've been loving seeing styles like these loose belted ones every time I look down.
10. Iron Dreams: Steel mules glittered all the time in Londontown. This knotted design adds a subtle pop of personality to any outfit.
11. Artfully Woven: Instead of suede or solid leather mules, I used to see women wearing something like this style of woven leather for more inspiration.
12. Additional Support: Worried that your mules will slip off? This ballerina-inspired Kate Spade style features a soft ankle wrap to keep the shoes securely in place.
Trusty Cotton Tees
13. Normally Good: Cotton is one of the most breathable fabrics, so I'm not surprised when I see many women wearing simple white tees that are a cross between form-fitting and boxy.
14. So You Are Free: The boxy-fit tee was so popular in Central London, I lost count of how many women wore one.
15. Go Graphic: Naked white girls weren't the only ones high in town. People showed their interests with fun graphic tees. I love this one and its image of a summer flower.
16. Perfect Fit: Few things look as good as a pair of fitted white trousers – this style from Quince feels like it was custom made for you.
UsNow Summer sale alert: These Chic Fashion Finds Are Over 30% Off – Plus Free Shipping
Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer's best dresses, tops and swimwear are up to 30% off + free shipping. Supplies are limited so hurry before they're gone.
Shop the UsNow Summer Sale ->
Finding summer pants that keep you cool without sticking to the middle ground can feel like an endless search, and as a store planner, I know how frustrating it can be. You want lightweight, breathable bottoms that flatter your shape rather than accentuate it, but many styles can feel too tight or too baggy. […]
