As tempting as it is to strip down to tanks and shorts when the weather gets too hot, it's not always an option (nor is it always a good idea). Depending on where you're headed and what you need to do, there are style hacks to remain in vogue while still staying comfortable and dressed for the occasion.
This article offers tips for putting together an outfit that helps you stay cool while looking the part.
- It's all about the fabrics
You can put on almost any ensemble and stay cool on warmer days as long as the pieces are made of breathable, lightweight fabrics. The most common choices include the following:
- Cotton: This natural fiber allows air to circulate more freely.
- Linen: Clothing made of linen can be woven loosely, allowing for breathability while increasing moisture wicking.
- Jersey: Advancements in production methods have made jersey a phenomenal fabric for humid days. Quality jersey fabrics commonly come in blends of wool, cotton, and synthetic fibers, giving them unparalleled stretchability and comfort.
However, don't limit yourself to the above. For example, fabrics combining cotton, spandex, and jersey are soft, absorbent, and offer four-way stretch, making it a recipe for all-day comfort. As alluded to earlier, synthetic materials have advanced over the years, combining properties to create fabrics you can wear all day in hot weather.
Of course, your entire wardrobe isn't going to be made of these materials. You can try this simple test when picking out clothing for hotter days.
- Feel the weight of the fabric. If it's light, you're on the right track.
- Hold it up to the light. If it lets some light in, you're still good.
- The more sheer a fabric is, the more breathable it will be.
- This would take some experience, but natural, light fabrics tend to dry faster. Keep that in mind when wearing clothing items during hot weather, so you can make them a go-to for next time.
In addition, shopping by body shape ensures optimal fit, whether you opt for loose fits or more form-fitting ones.
- Start with your underwear
Your underwear will be the tightest-fitting item in your outfit. Ensure it has the fabric properties mentioned above. Stretchy, breathable, and seamless underwear keeps you cool while preventing chaffing and irritation.
For the ladies, avoid thick padding for bras and opt for those with lighter lining to prevent boob sweat. Wireless bras and adhesive bras are good options. If you're going to be wearing a white dress, pair it with a breathable thong.
Having comfortable underwear sets the tone for how cool you'll be when temperatures rise.
- Stick to lighter colors
While this is a cardinal rule, it's easy to dismiss for people whose wardrobe consists of the black–grey–dark blue trifecta. Dark colors absorb more light, making them hotter when exposed to sunlight. Conversely, lighter colors reflect light. So, shades of white, beige, light blue, pink, and yellow are good options for hotter climates.
- Go with looser fits
There's a date and time for form-fitting ostentations, and hot weather isn't one of them. Whatever clothing item you choose, go with a looser fit than what you usually wear.
While form-fitting athleisure wear may work for sunny days, it's a different story when humidity's involved. For days like those, it's best to go with loose-fitting items to allow more airflow between the garments and your skin.
Wearing flowy dresses or a flower fit welcomes more air circulation under your clothing. A lightweight maxi dress is a good option, while midis with a slit give you a dash of flair to go along with the ventilation.
- Consider sun protection
If you'll be spending considerable time under the sun, opting for clothing with long sleeves is better than the alternative, especially if you'll be in dry heat. When humidity isn't the issue, direct sun contact will make you feel warmer, so while covering as much of your skin as possible may seem counterintuitive, it's the better option with the right fabrics.
And while sleeves, long dresses, and chinos cover most of it, you shouldn't forget about your head. For the gents, Panama hats stand as your best and most stylish option. For the ladies, straw and woven hats work well with flowy dresses and oversized button-ups. Make sure to get a quality hat, though, as lower-quality ones are often coated in agents that stiffen the weave, decreasing breathability.
- Think beyond flip-flops
Because you won't always be lounging in your backyard or the beach, it's best to explore your options beyond flip-flops. For women, leather sandals can work if you're not going to do a lot of walking under the sun. But if you want to be ready for anything the day throws at you, a light sneaker or an espadrille offer breathability and comfort to your feet.
For men, boat shoes and driving shoes with hidden socks are good options. Depending on the rest of your outfit, you can also go for loafers and classic white sneakers.
Bonus tips
Below are additional tips for dressing up in hot weather.
- If the occasion calls for it, spruce up your blazer with a pocket square instead of wearing a necktie. You can also wear an un-lined jacket with vents for added airflow.
- For women, you can't go wrong with wide-leg linen pants.
- Try to avoid oxford, twill, and herringbone.
- If you want to layer, a light cardigan is a good option, as it does away with collars and heavy cuffs.
- For those with long hair, keep it off your neck. Scrunchie and ribbons work perfectly with summery outfits.
- No heavy denim jeans—go for chinos and other trousers made of breathable and stretchy fabrics. For women, you can't go wrong with wide-leg linen pants.
- Premium athleisure wear is usually made of advanced fabrics. So, while they might seem too expensive for "workout clothes," they're incredibly comfortable and versatile pieces of clothing you can match with other items in your wardrobe.
Of course, it's always a good idea to have a section of your wardrobe reserved for spring-summer clothing. This will make it a breeze to throw on a stylish outfit when the weather calls for it.
Final words
Remember, you look good when you feel good. So, instead of aiming for a particular look, put together an outfit that keeps you comfortable and well-dressed.