Rain, rain, go away: those gloomy, soggy, constantly-wiping-up-the-dog’s-pawprints, cabin fever days can really bring us down. But let’s look on the bright side: rain is great for our gardens, the world smells fresh and clean afterwards, and with the right gear, we can even carry on with our lives and look good doing it.
Here are the essentials you need to feel gorgeous and fashionable during a Mother Nature deluge – and to stay dry and warm too!
The starter piece - A Good Raincoat:
Let’s face it: the most important item in your wardrobe when it comes to spring showers is a good raincoat. In my books, it needs to be long enough to keep my bottom dry, it needs a hood to keep the rain off my face and hair, and it needs to be pretty. That’s a tall order for a raincoat, but this beauty from North Face [1] fits the bill. It’s a gorgeous classic trench that would look equally stylish with jeans or with a skirt. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but North Face makes long-lasting, quality products, making this an investment piece.
Pretty Rain Boots will save you from getting soggy feet:
Children don’t avoid puddles like adults do; they take the opportunity to splash, play, and have fun. Why not embrace your inner child and puddle-jump too? These beauties by Hunter [2] will keep your feet nice and dry while you make a splash – literally and figuratively. You could get any old colour, but these shiny red boots are cheerful and happy-making.
Plus, they would go great with that raincoat!
Take Shelter Under This Umbrella:
Sometimes a hood is just not enough; when the rain is coming down in sheets you need more protection. This birdcage umbrella [3] is too cute for words. How can you not be happy while holding this? It’s like you’re inside the birdcage with the little love birds. You and the birdies will be singing in the rain!
Dealing with the Hairy Issues:
The biggest issue I have with the rain is the havoc it wreaks on my hair. I’m sure you feel it too! Whether the rain makes your hair limp or the humidity makes it look like an 80s throwback, you need help! I love these spin pins from Goody [4], which let me throw my shoulder-length hair into a bun with ease. No fuss, no muss, and let it rain!
Don't let the damp leave you with Raccoon Eyes:
At the beginning of a rainy day, you are fresh-faced and long-lashed, but one school drop-off later, you have raccoon eyes. I feel your pain. You need a waterproof formula to keep your mascara where it should be – on your lashes! I love The Falsies from Maybelline [5]; luscious lashes that stay put even when it rains. Bonus: it also comes in handy this time of year with end-of-school assemblies and other tear-jerking moments when you find yourself verklempt.