Trapeze

As a child, I remember that there was this recurring Tourism Queensland advertisement that engaged the audience with the promise that no matter the day or the rest of the country's forecast, Brisbane would be "warm and sunny". When I moved here to attend UQ, my memory proved hazy and I was in no way prepared for just how excruciating both the heat and humidity can be. We're now midway through my fifth summer here and with the heat refusing to wane, clothing feels both unbearable and a waste of time. The preferred options of never getting dressed/staying in the shower all day far underplay the reality of wiping my brow and mopping my upper lip's sweat mo' for the thousandth time while all this dripping renders my shine-free make-up and 24hr antiperspirant useless. When I finally get to considering an outfit, a dress is the only garment close to street-appropriate that I can muster the energy to wear. If it's the sort of soul-destroying temperature that makes action of any kind unthinkable and unbearable, then I'm after a frock that manifests as both a sarong and industrial pedestal fan, yet won't require technical expenditure nor engineering. That's where the wearing of a swing dress comes in. The novelty value of through-flow ventilation garnered by strategic draping, even with an A-line swing, allows for fresh air to your nether-regions without sacrificing style or comfort. As well as bringing glamour back, a gathered neck leaves maximum tummy space for you to down yet another snow-cone, slurpee or daiquiri from a hammock or rooftop -- and forget about wearing swimmers as clothes forever. 

Brunch Date: Gem Dress by Gorman. A mid-weight linen dress that pairs well with black, tan or colourful accessories and a bright, shiny lipstick to make you appear made up without tearing you away from that double-shot soy frappé.

Dinner Drinks: Brightside Swing Dress by Zimmermann. A strappy silk number that will ensure you feel weightless in the afternoon heat. Allow the multi-coloured kaleidoscopic print to do the talking and let metallic hints define your eyes and tone of sandal.

Rooftop Dance Party: Cami Swing Dress with Sequins by ASOS. A sparkly slip that ensures maximum impact and limited styling. Prime thoroughly and team with BB Cream and a powder foundation, for a weightless, healthy glow.

Coastal Reception: Kauai Dress by Va Et Vien. Head to the beach to catch the breeze and celebrate the cool change. This cotton tulle helps you escape the heat and get edgy with a neckline of vintage rhinestones. Don a pop-coloured heel to balance the bridal aspect or embrace a Gatsby feel with a jaunty jewelled headpiece.