This is the hottest summer on my memory. I love it, but sometimes, when the temperatures are too high, that love turns a bit sour. Heat waves – when everything and everyone is inevitably going to end up sweating – make me feel uncomfortable. Long periods of high temperature and high humidity can be very dangerous for our health. I can feel my brain literally melting.
Anyway, summer always comes with a relaxed, laid-back vibe. People often start dressing like they’re off to the beach. The temptation to dress in t-shirts and flip-flops is strong. That’s cool – but what about going out to meet someone? Just because something is appropriate for the weather doesn’t mean it’s okay to wear it.
Figuring out what to wear during hot summer days is especially difficult. It is possible to be stylish in hot weather?
CLOTHES
Dress appropriately. Indoors and outdoors, take any heavy clothing off and wear as little as modesty and law permit. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and lightly coloured clothing.
FABRICS
Choose lightweight clothing and fabrics to stay cool in the heat, e.g., cotton or linen. Lightweight 100% wool is a great option too.
Fabrics should feel light because natural light fabrics tend to dry faster – a bonus when you sweat. Because cotton is so good at absorbing moisture, you can soak your clothing in water and cool off that way.
Avoid synthetic fabrics that tend to reflect heat back, causing discomfort and irritation. Silk is not a good choice either as it tends to retain heat.
COLORS
Basic physics: dark colours absorb more light, so they are going to be hotter; light colours reflect light and are cooler to wear in summer.
Spring/summer collections are usually produced in the shades of white, beige, pink, and yellow, and people seeking to appear fashionable follow those trends.
Whites, pastels, grays, creams, and tans will keep you cooler than blacks, blues, or any other dark colours.
Brighter colours also make a summer statement. Take advantage of the bright weather and rock some colour!
FIT
Clothing should be loose enough to allow air flow between the fabric and your skin. Remember, no evaporation means no cooling. Airy silhouettes in the form of rompers and sundresses are a must. From wide-leg cropped pants to linen dresses, these are the heat-defying items you can wear on repeat all summer long giving you a breezy feeling.
Also, if you’re buying summer clothes, consider sizing up. High street brands always play with summer volume. Just go and check The Row and Céline.
ACCESSORIES
Hats are useful in more ways than one. They can keep the sun out of your eyes and off your face, but they can also be soaked in water to keep your head nice and cool. The straw and felt hat has holes making to allow air circulation. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
BEAUTY HACKS
If you go outside, be sure to use at least a 30 SPF sunscreen to avoid sunburn. Choose the one that’s lightly tinted (as well as is SPF50) and you can forget about foundation.
Use face mists to keep your skin hydrated throughout the day. It cools the skin leaving it refreshed. Some sprays contain hydrating ingredients like essential oils, botanical extracts, or glycerin.
In addition…
COOLING WATER
Take advantage of the cooling power of water. Soak your feet in water. Soak everything: clothing, hats, towels in water. Wet bandanas can have a cooling effect when worn on the shoulders or head. Take cool showers or baths, splash yourself with cool water, and consider using a spray bottle filled with cold water for refreshing spritzes throughout the day. This will lower your body temperature.
COLD COMFORT ZONE
Get cold comfort anywhere you can find it. A basement can be a cool refuge from midday heat. Moreover, public buildings always have air conditioning. Stay indoors and stay cool. Shopping malls, movie theatres, museums, or libraries can all be good places to cool down. While being in shade, try to find a cross-breeze.
STAYING HYDRATED
Stay well-hydrated. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, keep taking regular sips. When it is very hot outside, it’s recommended that you drink about 4 cups of water per hour. Avoid drinks with a lot of caffeine – coffee and tea – and alcoholic beverages, as they promote dehydration.
EATING WELL
Eat well. It’s important to keep eating, but you should adapt your eating habits to the temperatures. Better to eat well-balanced and light meals regularly – fresh fruit, salads, healthy snacks, and vegetables.
Foods that are rich in protein, meat and nuts, will increase metabolic heat.
