Sponsored by Tu
Coat or no coat? Tights or no tights? April mornings can bring more dilemmas than a Nelly and Kelly comeback. Sure, the sun may be shining now, but come 11 you just know that silk dress is going to be proven a horrible decision (cost-per-wear or otherwise), and don’t even get us started on the pitfalls of white.
So, is it possible to get one up on the famously unpredictable British weather? Of course, but the trick is to always be prepared. Turns out channelling your inner Scout won’t just help you nail the neckerchief trend – their motto holds the key to transitional dressing too.
With this in mind, we’ve partnered with Tu and pulled together your not-quite-summer NTK. Read our street style inspired golden rules below, then shop the weather-proof pieces you’ll need to master them. Brolly not included.
Layer it on
Whoever said that “patience is a virtue” was yet to master the art of layering. Not only are mix-and-match separates the easiest way to outsmart the temperature, but knowing how to pair them means you can wear that new season buy right now.
Make like a street style star and try a floral dress over flared jeans, or an on-trend roll neck under a denim pinafore. Practical AND cool.
Trust in the trench
When it comes to style icons, there are few as quintessentially British as the trench coat. Born to withstand the ups-and-downs of our weather system, the classic cover-up is (thankfully) just as chic as it is practical.
Thanks to French label-of-the-moment Vetements, camel was top of every editor’s Fashion Week packing list last month. Take note and pair with just about anything.
Shower-proof your shoes
It might be tempting to reach for those new sandals at the first sign of sunshine, but believe us when we say a closed toe can be a life (or at least day) saver.
Loafers are a staple whatever the weather and for good reason – they look put-together with skirts and trousers alike. Avoid black and pick a pale shade to keep the look fresh.
It’s all in the jeans
It’s no secret that denim is having a fashion moment, and we couldn’t be happier. This season’s distressed shades and retro styles feel 100 percent summer whilst keeping your legs 100 – or, er, at least 90 – percent covered.
Keep your favourite pair classic with a white shirt and mules, or lop off the hems a la Marques Almeida and double up with a matching top.
Keep it colourful
From bubblegum pink to garden green, the SS16 runways were awash with a paintbox of vivid shades. Whilst head-to-toe colour blocking might be a biiiiit much for the office, adding just one bold piece will bring a little bit of sunshine to even a rainy day look.
A bright accessory is an easy way to test-drive the trend, but if you’re feeling a little braver, we recommend trying a mustard jacket for just the right amount of retro.
Shop online at tuclothing.sainsburys.co.uk or click here to find your nearest store.