When a heatwave arrives, getting dressed can often become more challenging. How do we look less “Brits on the Beach” and lean into Italian or French chic?

Great style isn’t about how much you spend; it’s about knowing what suits you and learning how to spot those hidden gems. Some of the best compliments I’ve ever received have been on outfits under £30.

In my career of over 40 years as a celebrity stylist and fashion reporter for TV and radio, nothing gives me greater pleasure than finding a fabulous high street or supermarket fashion bargain, especially while doing my grocery shopping.

I love discovering pieces that could easily pass themselves off as designer dupes or become the must-have item of the summer – all for a fraction of the price.

Here are a few of my top recommendations on what to buy to stay cool when dealing with extreme temperatures.

Tu cream stripe tailored linen blend jorts

£20, Sainsburys

Forget squeezing into tight clothes when it’s 30-plus degrees outside. Loose-fitting pieces will allow air to circulate and help you feel cooler. Synthetic fabrics can make you feel even hotter, so check the fabric label before you buy. Natural fabrics such a linen or cotton will be best. Lightweight viscose is another good option. This is often mixed with linen to minimize creasing.

George beige striped tailored wide leg trousers with linen and Beige striped waistcoat with linen

£20 each, ASDA

Denim isn’t your friend in extreme heat. Swap for linen or lightweight relaxed fit cotton trousers instead – or – shorts. These could be tailored and longer length, or more relaxed, gathered at the waist. Stripes can be found everywhere at the moment, or you could go for a co-ord – there’s a lot of fun, fruity patterns around.

Beige striped tailored wide leg trousers with linen, £20; Beige striped waistcoat with linen, £20 both from George at ASDA

White relaxed cotton long sleeve shirt

Next, £25.00

Many people think wearing as little as possible automatically means feeling cooler, but that’s not always true. A loose linen shirt with sleeves can actually protect your skin from direct sunlight while allowing air to circulate. Roll the sleeves up, leave a couple of buttons undone and you’ve instantly created an effortlessly stylish summer look. You could always try shopping in the men’s department too, for the oversized look.

Cotton blend gathered long skirt and Cotton blend sleeveless blouse

Uniqlo, blouse, £24.90 and skirt, £34.90

Pale colours reflect the sun, whilst darker shades absorb the heat. That’s why this Uniqlo co-ord, available in white and yellow, is the perfect option for a sweltering day. White gives instant understated chic, while yellow can be teamed with accessories such as straw hats or espadrilles in muted tones of oatmeal and beige.

Cotton blend gathered long skirt, £34.90 from Uniqlo; Cotton blend sleeveless blouse, £24.90 from Uniqlo

Ultimate cotton crew neck tee

Primark, £7.00

A simple 100 per cent cotton white t-shirt is always useful, whether it’s a vest or short sleeve. The ones I often buy are from Primark. Primark’s sustainable cotton is grown to use less water, fewer chemical pesticides and fertilisers, and more regenerative agricultural practices.

Full length trapeze maxi dress linen/viscose mix

Primark £16.00

A simple cotton or linen dress is the hardest-working item in any summer wardrobe, especially mine. I own it in oatmeal. Choose a relaxed midi or maxi style that skims rather than clings. I think maxi is a more flattering length as it doesn’t cut off mid-calf, and currently more on-trend. You can also dress it up or down – take it from day to night, changing up the accessories. Floaty boho is another summer style staple.

Full length trapeze maxi dress linen/viscose mix, £16 from Primark

Tu neutral wedge espadrille sandals; F&F double strap footbed sandal

Sainsburys, £20; Tesco, £16

Hot weather can make feet swell, so comfort is essential. Celebrities and fashionistas are wearing designer flip flops – not plastic ones, but in leather or mock croc; also wedges like the Alaia toe thong suede sandal and ballerina flats. There has also been a return to the old school-style white canvas retro trainers. Espadrille sandals are always stylish and comfortable. Best to avoid plastic footwear, which can become uncomfortable very quickly in high temperatures. For me comfort is key. The Birkenstock F&F dupe is another option which comes in four colours.

Neutral wedge espadrille sandals, £20 from Tu at Sainsburys; Double strap footbed sandal, £16 from F&F at Tesco

Paper straw fedora hat

Marks & Spencer, £18.00

Accessories should be practical as well as stylish. A wide-brimmed straw hat protects your face and neck from the sun – together with your SPF 50 – while still looking stylish.