While other parts of Europe are experiencing a heatwave (places in Italy and Croatia have issued heat warnings, and Turkey has reportedly reached temperatures of 50 degrees), the UK is experiencing quite the opposite. It's a tale as old as time. European cities get to bask in the sunshine while the UK has to deal with downpour after downpour, and wet girl summer isn't quite as catchy. But, if you're determined to make it a great summer regardless of the weather, there's one item of clothing you need before heading out: Uniqlo's Windproof Blouson.
In fact, Uniqlo's windproof blouson jacket might look somewhat familiar to you, particularly if you're a fan of The Row. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's brand might be officially the proud owner of the world's most in-demand flip flop, but it's also carved out a niche when it comes to luxurious and understated basics. Turns out, the brand's Kemetina Silk Raincoat, which retails for a cool £3,420, bears similarities to Uniqlo's affordable style, particularly when it comes to details like a stand-up collar, adjustable waist drawstrings and zipper closure. However, Uniqlo's iteration won't set you back a holiday to the Caribbean either, so that's a major win.
Uniqlo www.uniqlo.com
Uniqlo's Windproof Blouson is the latest item from the brand to go viral, and it's easy to see why. The design features a stand-up collar, as well as large pockets and a short length. Style with more feminine accessories, like ballet flats and a raffia tote bag.
Alternatively, if you've been browsing Uniqlo's new-in section (I spend hours on there), you might've also spotted the Cotton Blend Short Parka, which looks very similar to the sell-out Windproof Blouson. The parka looks like a grown-up cousin of the original, and features a water-repellent finish, balloon sleeves and adjusters at the hem. The parka is also distinctly less weekend-dog-walk and more dinner-in-the-city, especially if you choose the beige colour, which would sit comfortably in any minimalist's capsule wardrobe.
Uniqlowww.uniqlo.com
Hoping to recreate the success of the Windproof Blouson, Uniqlo has released a very similar design, but this one features a more practical hood. The cotton-blend fabric will repel water, while the adjusters at the hem and balloon sleeves will keep your clothes underneath dry.
The only issue with a windbreaker or raincoat is how to style it to not look like you're about to head to a National Trust site. With khakis and browns, lean into the jacket's soft tailoring with straight-leg jeans, a sheer knit and a pair of muted ballet flats. The khaki parka jacket is, of course, a staple of the early 2000s, Oasis fans and those tackling DofE for the first time, but styled in this way feels more, well, 2025. For the beige and cream iterations, layer the jacket over a lace-trimmed cami or dress (this Zara one is particularly great) and satin trousers for a softer look.
Whether you look out your window in the morning to see grey skies or oddly sunny weather, Uniqlo's Cotton Blend Short Parka is the jacket you'll be glad you have on standby. It's also a jacket that manages to balance looking good and actually being practical, which can't always be said when it comes to fashion (Vibram's five-toe shoe, I'm looking at you). And, if the Windproof Blouson's success is anything to go by, the parka won't be hanging around for long either. Ultimately, I think there's a lesson here we could all probably learn from – even if the weather is unpredictable, your wardrobe shouldn't be.
Shop: Your Size Out Of Stock? Here's Some Alternatives
Lululemonwww.lululemon.co.uk
Lululemon's Oversized Collared Jacket is less activewear and more everyday-wear, with its snap-closure hand pockets and zipped interior pockets to keep all your essentials safe. Plus, its cinchable hem and close-fitting cuffs mean you'll be protected from any unexpected showers.
Lululemonwww.mytheresa.com
Trust Moncler to deliver a chic rainproof jacket. This hooded style features a shirt coller for a polioshed finish and is an easy layer to throw over practically any outfit.
MyTheresawww.mytheresa.com
Bag The Row's Kemetina Silk Raincoat while it's still in stock. It's likely this raincoat will sell out, if the website (which is now waitlist only) is anything to go by. The jacket itself features ribbed cuffs, interior drawstring and a handy hood.
Rainswww.uk.rains.com
If you like the shorter style raincoat, rather than relying on a full-length style, Rains has a design that's perfect. Finished with two boxy front pockets, zip closure and hood, style with capri pants and ballet flats.
H&M www2.hm.com
The high street is also packed full of raincoats, some of which are just as good as its higher-end counterparts. This one from H&M will protect you against both rain and wind thanks to its StormMove finish and hood with elasticated drawstring.
Main image credit: Instagram/@daryonopri
Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia, where she tracks down viral pieces and is as comfortable navigating the M&S new-in page as she is dissecting the latest celebrity look. When not writing, shopping or at Reformer Pilates (a cliché but she's hooked), Gemma will likely be planning her next holiday (and what she's going to wear). For a glimpse into said travels, outfit inspo and life as a journalist, follow her on Instagram or TikTok.