Two summers ago, Palermo hit 42°C. I remember it clearly because I tried to be elegant and nearly fainted in a silk button-down. That day, I learned two things: (1) sweat stains don’t care how chic you look, and (2) elegance in a heatwave isn’t about effort — it’s about surrendering with style.
This isn’t another list of dos and don’ts. Instead, here’s a diary of what I actually wore during the hottest week of my life — and why I’d wear those exact pieces again. Consider it a survival story, but make it fashion.
Day 1: The White Linen Dress That Saved Me
It was so hot my phone shut down. I put on a simple linen dress from Massimo Dutti — no lining, no fuss, just breathable heaven. I tied my hair in a low knot and wore my ATP Atelier sandals, which made me feel like a functioning adult despite slowly melting.
Shop the look:
- Massimo Dutti Linen Midi Dress — light as air.
- ATP Atelier Rosa Flat Sandal — elegant and blister-free.
I also carried my basket bag like a true Sicilian nonna. It held nothing useful except my fan and lip balm, but I felt instantly more put together.
Day 2: Loose Trousers and a Soft Breeze (Barely)
Wore wide-leg linen trousers from COS and a tank top tucked loosely. Nothing clung to my body. I met a friend for granita, and she told me I looked like I just came back from vacation. That’s the goal, isn’t it?
Inspired by @heloise.guillet, I kept things neutral — beige and black, with flat sandals though, and my hair undone.
Day 3: Black in Summer — Yes, Really
Everyone says don’t wear black in summer. But my favorite elegant summer outfit? A black linen dress from the Reformation, styled like @allchloerose. It felt quietly glamorous.
I added a low bun, oversized sunglasses, and a woven leather bag from Dragon Diffusion. I walked slowly, stayed in the shade, and felt like I was in a film. (Albeit a very sweaty one.)
Shop here:
- Dragon Diffusion Santa Croce Bag — soft, handwoven, and quietly luxe.
Day 4: Regret in a Shirt Dress
Thought I’d try something structured — a cotton shirt dress cinched at the waist. It looked cute for the first 15 minutes. Then came the sticking. The unbreathable lining. The buttons pulling from sitting down.
I spent the day fantasizing about throwing it into the sea.
Lesson learned: if something looks tailored, check the fabric. And if you have to wear it, keep movement to a minimum.
Day 5: My Heatwave Uniform Emerges
By the end of the week, I’d cracked it. The combo that worked every time: breathable dress + real sandals + basket bag + low bun. Repeat.
I saw this exact energy in Silvy Aurelia’s post — linen, ease, and not a hint of trying too hard.
If you’re curious about what not to pack for this summer vacation, I break down common beach style mistakes (and what to wear instead) in this post: Old Money Beach Style Mistakes
One Last Thing
Looking elegant in summer heat isn’t about impressing anyone — it’s about wearing things that let you live. If your clothes let you breathe, move, and sip your iced coffee in peace, you’re doing it right.
Let go of the crisp collars. Choose fabrics that move. Let the heat shape your style instead of fighting it.
