It’s hot just about everywhere in the northern hemisphere at the moment. In fact, CNN mentioned last week that 2018 is the fourth hottest year on record. On that note here are some very breezy tops and dresses to wear in high heat. Lots of colours and sizes to choose.

1. Cloth & Stone Benton Ruffled Tank

Ignore the stock photos because this top looks great UNTUCKED, and simply worn over pants, shorts or straighter skirts. If you want more structure, semi- or fully tuck. It’s got one of those magical necklines that looks good on most bust sizes and neck lengths. The armholes are neat and tidy, albeit a little roomy. The torso has volume that’s tempered by the drape of the fabric and V-shape of the neck. Excellent camouflage for muffin top. This is not suppose to be a fitted top. 100% cotton and machine washable. Bonus: the white is NOT transparent, so no need for a camisole.

2. Akemi & Kin Tibby Tank

Again, they’ve showed the top tucked, and it looks great UNTUCKED. Another magical neckline that looks good on an assortment of bust sizes and neck lengths. The drape is gorgeous and the fabric super soft. Nice length for taller girls and flattering high-low hemline. It’s supposed to look drapey and voluminous — extra ventilating — but size down. The dusty rose colour is unusual and rich.

3. Bordeaux Gatineau Knotted Tank

This tank is almost too good to be true. It’s fitted on the arms, shoulders and neckline, and gently glides over the torso making it forgiving of midsection extra bits. Good on an assortment of body types. The waist knot detailing lies flat, and gives the top structure. The neckline is not too low. It’s an excellent top to wear over casual skirts because you don’t need to tuck or semi-tuck the hem! Ideal for those who feel short-waisted when tucking. The coral is brighter in person, and the white is NOT see-through so no need for a camisole. 100% cotton and machine washable. I thought it ran TTS because the XS fit me perfectly. But I need a narrow fit so if you prefer a regular fit, you might need to size up.

4. Sole Society Karon Faux Leather Shoulder Bag

Sole Society makes excellent faux leather bags, and this one is darling. It’s larger than you expect, and lies flat against the body. Comfortable, although it does not have a zipper closure. It closes with a magnetic stud, which should be fine in a crossbody style.

5. Caslon Stripe A-Line Maxi

I keep saying that diagonal lines do magical things on the body, and this is no exception. A cool and breezy maxi that is gently fitted can do the trick. The V-neck and diagonal lines add structure to the straighter torso, or flatten curves and muffin top. Armholes not too low, and the length can be hemmed to midi. It has a linen content so be at peace with the crease.

6. Caslon Stripe Linen Shirtdress

It’s hard to find a shirtdress with sufficient length and a little structure, and this one fits the bill. The short sleeves are flattering and just long enough to feel cool yet covered. The vertical stripes draw the eye up and down. It’s 100% linen so it will crease and you won’t want it too tight. Read the rave reviews.