RAin in Britain is a national trait rather than a weather event. From misty rain that sticks to your hair and glasses to sudden downpours that soak you to the bone. British weather may never lose its flair due to inconvenient timing, but that doesn’t have to take away your style.
What’s the secret to a good wet weather wardrobe? By incorporating a few practical purchases into your everyday wardrobe (along with stocking up on what you already have), you’ll at least be armed when the heavens inevitably open up.
How to look good in wet weather
Think carefully about your city
woman commando chelsea boots
Wellies aren’t just for trips to the Lake District or a weekend away at Glastonbury. Opting for the new cropped style, somewhere between a wellington and a Chelsea boot, is the ideal way to wear a waterproof outfit, so you don’t have to wear soggy socks when running around in muddy fields or rainy city roads.
Tuck your jeans into your boots.
90s high rise relaxed jeans
Chocolate brown leather knee-high flat rider boots
Knee-high boots that conceal straight-leg jeans (a la Diana, Princess of Wales) were featured on this year’s Paris Fashion Week runways and are a practical item even in wet weather. No more soggy hems.
Buy a waxed hat
waxed sports hat
If a shiny hooded cagoole isn’t your bag, try a waterproof cap. A traditional wet weather expert, Barbour’s waxed cotton styles can be kept in your bag for humid days as well, protecting your hair from frizz.
Bring a waterproof bag
msn bag
Coming to work with a wet laptop is never a good way to start your day, so it’s important to have a watertight bag.
Sprinkle suede
nick wax Nubuck and suede evidence Spray, 125ml
Suede isn’t the first material you reach for on a rainy day. Even a little rain can cause suede to appear stained, stiff, and discolored. But with a trusty suede protector, you can keep wearing them all year long. A quick spray of this invisible veil will help protect your suede in any shower.
Add your own hoodie
Olive wax coated hood
waterproof hooded scarf
More hair can make it more difficult to dress for the rain, which isn’t helped by the fact that many women’s clothing styles don’t have hoods. If your jacket doesn’t have a hood, why not accessorize it with one? This generously sized wax-coated hood from London-based brand Plümo is an ingenious solution for keeping your newly dry hair looking good, no matter the forecast. It conveys the late Queen Elizabeth the right way. Or try an inexpensive hooded scarf from Etsy to keep your hair nice and dry.
Keep it short
arch tapered jeans
Wet denim is notoriously difficult to dry, so opt for bell-bottom pants from Cos. If you need extra rain protection, you can raise the hem a few times for a more tapered fit.
Upgrade your raincoat
shower proof raincoat
Waterproof jackets don’t always have to be boring, and these days you don’t have to sacrifice personal style for practicality. This checked coat from British brand Damson Madder balances functionality and style thanks to its stylish balloon sleeves and flattering waistline.
Enter gorpcore
XT-6 Gore-Tex shoes
Naturally, Gorpcore inspires wet weather style. Combining practicality and urban cool, these trainers from Salomon are perfect for both the Cotswolds and the city. Made with a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane, these sneakers can withstand storms.
Add shine with patent leather
Lacquered faux leather longline jacket
If the classic raincoat silhouette doesn’t suit your style, patent leather may be your new best friend. The high-gloss finish allows this unexpected waterproof jacket to withstand the drizzle while still maintaining its unique flair.
Charlotte Gornall is a fashion assistant and writer at the Guardian.