How to dress for work when it’s raining in summer

If there is one thing we can rely on with the British summer, it’s that the weather will always be unpredictable. It is completely feasible in June or July to experience blazing sunshine, high winds and torrential downpours, all within the space of a single day.

You’d think that, as a nation, we would be uniquely skilled at dressing for it. Wrong. Like the chance of rain at Wimbledon, the same perennial question is lobbed my way from friends and colleagues each year: How on earth do I dress when the weather won’t cooperate?

It’s easy if you’re doing something casual, like walking the dog or popping to a pilates class, when a waterproof parka and a pair of wellies or old trainers will suffice. It’s altogether more challenging if you want to look polished for work, as anything weather-proof tends to be more functional and sporty in design.

So how do you protect yourself from the elements without sacrificing on style? Fear not, there is a formula – and you probably have most of the key items in your wardrobe already.

The outerwear

From left to right: Barbour Camilla waterproof trench coat, £250, Liberty; M&S Collection cotton blend trench coat, £45, Marks & Spencer; Oversized water-repellent trench coat, £89.99, Mango

The trench comes into its own at this time of year: lightweight enough to wear in summer, whilst also offering some protection from the rain. Its unique marriage of practicality and polish comes from the fact that it was originally designed as a military garment (worn by British and French soldiers in the First World War, hence the name). 

Burberry may be the trench coat mothership, but there’s a broad selection on the high street to suit every size, shape and taste. Just make sure you choose one that is actually waterproof – you’d be surprised at how many are all style and no substance.

The trousers

From left to right: High-waisted Richmond trousers, £85, Boden; Colour Pop slim crop trouser, £165, Me+Em; Cotton linen twill trousers, £150, Toast

Don’t even think about reaching for your favourite wide-legged trousers – you’ll have soggy ankles within seconds. You could wear a midi dress but when the weather’s this bleak, bare legs can feel a little overexposed. 

Enter the cropped trouser, your British summer best friend. They should have a tailored fit, although the leg can be tapered or wide. Some styles have an elasticated section at the back, which means you can have a proper lunch and still feel comfortable. Team with a shirt or a silk shell top, and add a belt for a little extra polish.

The footwear

Clockwise from top left: Corinne lug sole loafer, £164, Madewell; Idler horsebit tread loafer, £229, Penelope Chilvers; Agathea chunky loafer, £248, Reformation

Save your new summer sandals for those days when bright sunshine is all but guaranteed. The most useful shoes for temperamental weather are those with a closed toe and a small platform. White trainers may be appropriate in some offices, but it’s game over if you step in a puddle. 

Instead, consider a loafer with a small platform sole; a chic, walkable shoe with just enough elevation to keep your feet dry on a rain slicked pavement. I can vouch for the comfort of this Reformation pair, which required no breaking-in.

The umbrella

From left to right: Radley gingham responsible telescope umbrella, £25, John Lewis; Supermini block stripe umbrella,  £12, Totes; Spotty gold and green umbrella, £20, Oliver Bonas

If your hair has even the slightest tendency to misbehave in damp or humid weather, you’ll need an umbrella. Go for one that folds up small enough to fit into your handbag and pick a colour or print that makes it easily identifiable if you’re required to leave it by the door at an office or shop. 

You may prefer a coat with a hood so you can keep your hands free, although they tend to be less smart than those without and you may need to hold the hood in place anyway.