Britain is baking in one of the most sweltering heatwaves in history,

with temperatures climbing to a record-breaking 33.3C this bank

holiday weekend.X
And while many are anxious about the implications of the mercury
creeping higher than it ever has since records in this country began,
others are questioning the socially acceptable ways to approach
dressing for work in the heat.
Given that Britons are more accustomed to rainfall than blazing
sunshine, many will inevitably struggle with the sartorial challenges of
balancing professionalism with comfort.
It’s no mean feat, finding that sweet spot of sweat-wicking fabrics and
boardroom appropriateness, but as we reach inferno-like temperatures,
it’s necessary to amend one’s work wardrobe accordingly so we don’t
all end up spending our days soaked in sweat.
And we’re being encouraged to do so; last month, the Trades Union
Congress urged organisations to relax their dress codes so that
staff can wear more casual clothes suitable for hot weather. But how
relaxed is too relaxed?X
When it comes to dressing for work in a heatwave, there is a spectrum
of what is and is not socially acceptable. At one end, there are floaty
sundresses, linen shirts and canvas sandals. At the other, there are
mesh vest tops, denim hot pants and halter-neck crop tops.