Singin’ in the rain
Survive the April showers with puddle-proof fashion. Lisa Haynes reveals how to make a splash – stylishly
April is the month when rain traditionally strikes, turning a stylish look into a soggy mess in 15 seconds flat.
With our wet British climate, rainwear is essential armoury for any time of year. But being prepared doesn’t have to mean looking like Paddington Bear.
The high street has puddle-friendly fashion that means you’ll arrive at your destination looking more catwalk hot than damp wash-out.
Take cover from the elements in a mac, hat, brolly or wellies, or wear them all at once for extreme outfit protection. Suddenly, rain showers don’t seem quite so scary.
MAC ATTACK
Gok Wan declares that the humble mac is “as crucial a part of your wardrobe as your jeans”, so invest in a neutral colour like black, stone or navy for longevity. If you want to brighten up grey days, opt for a bold primary colour.
Can’t be parted from your favourite coat? Invest in a compact pack-up poncho that fits in your handbag to pull out in downpour emergencies.
TRY:
Marisota’s Dannimac Mac, available in stone or navy, £85 (www.marisota.co.uk)
:: For a neutral take on a trench, try Marisota’s Dannimac Mac, available in stone or navy, £85 (www.marisota.co.uk)
BROLLY BRIGADE
Whatever you’re wearing, a good umbrella will offer an element of overall outfit protection.
Opt for prints and colour to brighten up grey skies when you look up. Choose a slim and lightweight style if you’re planning to stash your brolly in your bag, or a walker or golf umbrella if you want to make a statement in the showers.
TRY:
Elegant walker umbrella, £25 (www.totes.co.uk)
:: Add a feminine, floral touch to your outfit with Totes’ Dahlia Photographic Elegant Walker Umbrella, £25 (www.totes.co.uk)
HAIR HORRORS
Hats are a tricky game in the rain. Choose the right fabric, or you’ll end up with a sodden headpiece that requires wringing out.
If you prefer to be hands-free, ditch the umbrella and pick out a wide brim. A straw floppy hat will look too summery, while woollen materials feel distinctly wintry. Go in between with a water repellent wax fabric that will keep your hairstyle damp-free.
TRY:
Joules Southbury caramel wax bucket hat, £14.95 (www.joules.com)
:: Add a splash of rich colour with Joules’ Southbury Caramel Wax Bucket Hat, reduced to £14.95 (www.joules.com)
WELLIE WONDERS
Rainy days can render half of your shoe cupboard completely useless, unless you want to risk wet feet. Swerve the sodden socks with sturdy rubber soles that make jumping through puddles a doddle.
If tall wellies aren’t for you, experiment with a boot hybrid complete with lace-ups.
TRY:
Hunter Original Tall wellington boots in Biscuit, £85 (www.hunter-boot.com)
:: Wellies can be chic and neutral; look to Hunter’s Original Tall in Biscuit, £85 (www.hunter-boot.com)
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