Keep cool in a lightweight duster coat

As our attitude to booze, sun protection and Tube survival tactics would suggest, we’re not very good at taking a sensible approach to summer. But you can’t really blame us. As the great British summertime lasts on average as long as our hopes for Wimbledon, years of conditioning have taught us that we must jump in with both feet or risk missing out completely. And that means drinking copious amounts of pear cider on a kerb and complaining about TfL’s air-con limitations while your skin turns an attractive shade of lobster. Along with, of course, seizing the opportunity to air one of the 20 lovely sundresses hanging in your wardrobe that rarely get to see the light of day.

As for the other 70 days of so-called summer, we’re resigned to chilly evenings, intermittent downpours and 99.9 per cent cloud coverage. And this requires tactical dressing. Specifically, something which is marginally more practical than a strappy sundress and sandals but not completely devoid of summer spirit.

For this we have the duster coat. Originally created to protect cowboys in the Midwest from getting caked in trail dust — how’s that for practical? — the duster coat is perfectly designed to cope with whatever summer throws at it. But its appeal doesn’t just lie in its virtues as a shield against grime, grass stains and cold shoulders but as a stylish alternative for when a denim jacket just won’t do.

Crafted from paperweight cotton, crepe or silk, the duster coat maintains an air of fluidity and breeziness that’s just as satisfying as slipping into a summer frock or flouncy skirt, without leaving you looking underdressed should an Arctic breeze roll in as soon as you hit the beer garden. It also makes an ideal cover up for summer weddings and — if chosen wisely — may even be light enough to slip into your clutch bag.

When seeking one out, the high street has it covered. Topshop has some great options definitely not created with a Texas Ranger in mind, including floral lace, graphic check and silk tropical print. As does ASOS, which wins prizes for quality and quantity within its premium White Collection. Lovers of luxury will also be relieved to hear Marni has plush versions in pale pink and bottle green. For a minimalist approach, try Swedish high street heroes Monki which has several longline blazers in store at the moment in a host of no-nonsense neutrals, while M&S has a pure white option which is possibly the closest to duster coat perfection that one can get. Providing there’s no actual dust involved, of course.