How to keep your trousers on this summer when all about you are losing theirs.

We are in the grips of a heatwave here in London and, in the last few minutes, rumours are spreading that the air con at MR PORTER HQ has packed up. We are especially thankful, then, for this week’s Style Question, which comes via Instagram and focuses on a pertinent point. If you want to keep cool in the heat, but do not enjoy bearing your legs – what to wear? Read below for our stylish alternative to shorts.

**I don’t like shorts! What should I wear in summer instead? ** **From @nowa1999, via Instagram **

@nowa1999, you are not alone. Curse those gentlemen of toned leg and tanned calf who are able to carry off shorts and make them look smart in any situation. But for some of us, well… we’re just better off with alternatives with which to cover our lower half, even in the summer. It’s just kinder that way.

In this heat, we’d advise against jeans – denim isn’t conducive to keeping cool, and there are more comfortable options that will help you crank up your summer style. The most important thing when choosing a pair of trousers for the summer, then, is to consider the fabric. You’ll probably want to avoid wool, for instance. Seersucker is the obvious choice for summer and its texture provides a nice point of difference – the puckered, lightweight material is perfect for warm weather. For something smart, try these blue seersucker trousers from Officine Generale – great for a sophisticated look on holiday. If that’s not your thing, see more options, below. Regarding what you can wear them with, you won’t go far wrong with a white T-shirt or linen shirt. And, for something for the everyday, try these linen and cotton blend chinos by NN07 – they’ll keep you cool, and the beige will complement pretty much anything you decide to pair them with.

If, however, you are by the pool or at the beach – swim shorts are probably preferable. Read our guide to swim shorts that will look good in any setting, here. However you play it, sometimes nothing else will do.