GAIL ROLFE shows how you can look subtly sexy in summer suspenders

The British climate is good for anyone with body hangs – probably most of us. Luckily, our usual chilly weather makes the art of concealment easy, thanks to oversized sweaters, long coats and midi dresses with thick tights.

Women in Mediterranean countries are not so squeamish and bare their bodies without fear. Wrinkles and flabby biceps – who cares?

Which brings us to this summer’s trend for sundresses with straps. It may not be the easiest look to acquire, but as every Spaniard or Italian knows, when the temperature rises, you need a flowy dress that floats coolly around your body and sits breezy lightly on your bare shoulders.

It may not be the easiest look to acquire, but as every Spaniard or Italian knows, when the temperature rises, you need a flowy dress that floats coolly around your body and sits breezy lightly on your bare shoulders

Blazer, £132, Puzzle online. com; dress, £150, kitristudio.com; Sandals, £20, warehouse fashion.com

dress, £89, hush-uk.com; Sandals, £110, Jigsawonline. com

Mercury may not hit record highs in the weeks of summer we have left, but there will be plenty of warm days to come when a slip dress is just the ticket.

You can make the trend more wearable. Heed the age-old style advice of never showing your leg and cleavage in an outfit — thankfully, this year’s midi and maxi sundresses make that easy. Ideally, choose one that hits above the ankle to let the feminine skirts rustle around your legs.

Wider straps allow you to wear a regular bra if you want more support. For models with thin straps, make sure you choose a good strapless bra.

dress, £125, allsaints.com; Sandals, £38.35, warehouse fashion.com

Mercury may not hit record highs in the weeks of summer we have left, but there will be plenty of warm days to come when a slip dress is just the ticket

dress, £164, lkbennett.com; Sandals, £79, Castaner at farfetch.com

There are some bias cut, slimmer versions of the strappy trend that might be more difficult to incorporate into your wardrobe.

If you love them but are upper arm conscious like so many of us, try a t-shirt underneath.

Are you spoiled for choice? You can’t go wrong choosing the navy blue and white striped jigsaw cotton with its wider straps; the cheerful red floral design by LK Bennett; and Hush’s navy linen blend for her subtly sexy cleavage.

Always have a layer ready to throw over your ensemble if you wish: a sheer scarf, for example, or a denim or linen jacket that is cropped at the waist and elongates your figure.

In the end, like everything in life, it comes down to self-confidence. Wear a beautiful dress without worry while the sun is still shining.