There’s hot, and then there’s instantly sweat-inducing heat that makes going out even a chore. When the extreme temperatures of the summer roll in, the last thing you want to think about is what you’re going to wear, especially when your main goal is just trying to keep cool. But figuring out what to throw on in the midst of 90-degree weather without compromising style for comfort is easier said than done.
This week the temps are climbing, and we are going to be well in the 90’s. Good for y’all, I’ve discovered some tips that may be the next best thing to wearing a bathing suit out in public.
Here’s my guide on how to make the most of hot weather clothing.
1.Keep your clothes loose.
The looser, the better. The less fabric you have actually touching your body, the more comfortable you will feel. Believe it or not, a flowy maxi dress will keep you cooler than a pair of shorts and a skintight tank. I have been LIVING in flowy, breezy dresses – especially midi dresses! I love a good pair of denim shorts, but sometimes they can be so hot and tight. Opt for a pair of linen shorts, or a fabric short on these hot days. But if you can’t part with your denim, go for a mom jean trend so your legs can breathe a little more.
2. Skip the padded bra in favor of a soft, unlined bralette.
Two inches of foam padding + a hot summer day = major boob sweat. One thing I feel like the pandemic brought us is the no bra life. During hot days like this, I try to wear dresses/tops that I can go braless. It makes the world of a difference. But if no bra isn’t an option for you, a bralette is the way to go!
3. Avoid flimsy fabrics if you don’t want your clothes to stick to your body.
Lightweight materials are great for hot weather, but they need to have some structure (like embroidery or seams), so they don’t cling to you the second you start to sweat. Nothing is worse than when a dress clings to you once you get sweaty. Having a little structure to the fabric will help keep a safe distance between your sweaty skin and the fabric.
4. Layer with open-weave knits.
You’ll feel every glorious, cooling breeze. Lucky for us, this is so trendy and in right now – especially crochet. Its basically a shirt with holes in it, you can’t get cooler than that!
5. Choose clothes in natural fabrics.
Cotton, for example, is more breathable than polyester or rayon. It’s also better at absorbing sweat and dries faster, which means you won’t feel sweaty for as long as you would if your clothes were made from synthetic fabric. I am always reaching for my linen pieces this time of year as well.
6. Avoid embellishments — particularly heavy ones like beads or metals.
They tend to weigh down your clothes so they are closer to your skin, trapping body heat. Try wearing a patterned garment, which will add the same kind of interest to your outfit.
7. Wear a wide-brimmed hat
I love adding a straw hat to looks in the summer because they give it such an effortless look, and it protects your skin and head! If hats aren’t your jam, drape the scarf over your shoulders or head whenever you feel like you’re getting too much sun. It’s so lightweight that you’ll barely feel it. Promise.
8. Wear unlined skirts, and dresses.
Not only is a lining one more layer between your skin and the air, it’s often synthetic, meaning it won’t breathe well and will leave you feeling like you’re walking around inside your own private sauna.
9. Leave your backpack or large tote at home in favor of a small crossbody or handbag.
The last thing you want on a hot day is a huge backpack stuck to your back, or a gigantic tote stuck to your side, making you sweat. Take this opportunity to clean out your bag and get back to basics, since the less stuff you carry around, the less you will exert yourself, and the less sweaty you will feel as a result. I love having fun with my summer accessories, especially bags. There are so many fun statement cross bodies, clutches or small purses.
10. Keep your hair off your neck.
Don’t even stress about doing your hair… the humidity with ruin it anyway. I always try to wear my hair up if I know we are going to be in the mid-nineties. A small cotton scarf is great for absorbing sweat, whether you use it to tie up your hair or wear it around your neck with your hair down. Soak it in cold water before you put it on for an extra-cooling kick. Also pull out those claw clips we had from the 90’s. But if you’re in a pinch, a low pony or sleek bun is my go to!
11. Stick to light colors.
Dark colors absorb light and can make you feel hot, while light colors reflect light and will keep you cool. Summer is all about the fun light colors anyways. So pull those fun colored pieces out of your closet!
12. Wear minimal jewelry.
Earrings are fine because they don’t really touch much of your skin, but necklaces, bracelets, and rings are often more trouble than they’re worth once the temperature rises. Lightweight chains stick to your skin, heavy necklaces trap your shirt against your chest, metals get hot, and bracelets cover your wrists, which are a major cooling point on your body.
Let’s brave this hot weather of summer together, but look cute doing it! What are you hot weather fashion tips?
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