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Clothes for Hot Weather: How to Stay Cool Without Compromising on Style
As much as we look forward to high temperatures at home and on our holidays, feeling hot and bothered can really take the shine out of the sun! The good news? Making smart choices when it comes to the fit, fabric and colour of your clothes can help you stay cool and comfortable on even the most scorching days.
When it comes to dressing for the heat, there's no need to live in sports shorts and a vest top all summer long! With a bit of style know-how, you can look put-together and stay cool all at the same time. So, whether you’re headed to the beach, trying to stay fresh in the city, or are getting active with a hike, follow our tips for staying cool and stylish all season long.
On the quest for breathable clothing: what is the best material to wear in hot weather?
When temperatures rise, reach for light and breathable fabrics. Lightweight cotton, linen, chambray and poplin are your hot-weather best friends. These natural materials allow heat to escape more easily and keep your body temperature regulated. They're also often soft on the skin and less likely to cause irritation on sticky days.
As well as keeping you cool in the heat, lightweight fabrics are also great at keeping you dry! Opting for quick-drying materials such as microfibre or polyester will prevent you from getting too sweaty, meaning you stay looking and feeling fresh all day long.
A lightweight poplin shirt paired with shorts is a great outfit for summer days out, whilst quick-drying polyester t-shirts are perfect for getting active in the heat!
What colour clothing is best for hot weather?
Whilst black might be an easy-to-wear staple colour, it's also a real heat magnet! Black clothing actually absorbs more light that, in turn, gets converted into more heat. So, when summer comes around again, it might be best to pack away your trusty black jeans and favourite dark t-shirt in favour of clothing in paler hues.
While white is an excellent colour to help you stay cool, it's not the only option. Other light colors such as beige, pastels, or soft blues will also reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it. Pairing a pair of lightweight beige trousers with a light blue shirt is a foolproof summer outfit that never goes out of style.
The best clothes for humid weather? Opt for loose silhouettes!
Tight clothing and hot, humid weather? This sounds like a recipe for sweat patches and discomfort! To avoid feeling hot and bothered in tropical environments, press pause on your skinny jeans and slim-fit shirts, and instead opt for loose-fitting, non-cuffed clothing that allows air to circulate freely.
For warm evenings in tropical climates, you can stay cool yet look effortlessly stylish by pairing a breezy cotton or linen shirt with lightweight chino trousers or shorts.
For casual days or getting active in humid heat, a loose-fitting vest is perfect for allowing moisture to evaporate from your skin and preventing pesky sweat patches under your arms.
What should you wear when hiking in hot weather?
When the sun's blazing and the trails are calling, how you dress can make all the difference between an enjoyable adventure and a sweaty struggle. Lightweight synthetic materials designed for getting active can prove excellent base layers, as they wick away moisture and help to regulate your body temperature as you hike.
Equally, a loose and light-coloured long sleeve shirt can be a great option. While full-length sleeves might sound counter-intuitive, they protect your skin from the sun's harsh rays. Versatile convertible trousers are great for fluctuating temperatures, offering flexibility as you navigate between sunny clearings and cooler shaded areas.
Choose warm-weather shoes and accessories wisely!
When it comes to staying comfortable in hot weather, keeping your feet cool is key. Open leather sandals or lightweight moccasins can be great options for summer strolls. Perforated leather footwear paired with moisture-wicking socks allow feet to breathe while maintaining a put-together look in more formal settings.
On summer outings, make sure you always have a trusty summer hat in your backpack! A wide-brimmed straw or canvas hat, or a breathable cap, will shade your face from the sun's rays and add a touch of style to any look. Whilst sunglasses may not keep you cool, a UV-blocking pair are essential for protecting your eyes.
Get set for summer with lightweight, breathable and quick-drying clothing
So, there you have it – our go-to guide for dressing for the heat! With some smart shopping and careful planning, you can stay cool and look stylish all summer long. Whether you're jetting off on tropical adventures or staying closer to home, you can enjoy the great outdoors without getting hot and bothered. Looking for more warm-weather style advice? Check out our handy guide to building the perfect summer outfit.