Looking for the best fabric for your summer outfits? Here are our top 4 picks
Without a doubt, summer is the best time of the year to showcase your impressive fashion sense, but with the temperature rising significantly, it can be challenging to pick the right fabric that will give you some relief from the heat while also helping you make an impression wherever you go. However, it’s definitely worth taking the time to understand what you should look for when choosing fabrics for hot weather because the wrong choice can disrupt the natural cooling mechanism of your body and leave you feeling sweaty and uncomfortable.
First and foremost, the best fabrics are those that enable air circulation, so that sweat won’t cling to your skin. Furthermore, you want to choose textiles that promote quick evaporation of sweat and make you feel comfortable and light against your skin. You should definitely avoid synthetic materials, as they will heat you up and cause itching. Learn more below about the best summer fabrics that will keep you cool and stylish.
Cotton
When it comes to the best fabric that will keep you comfortable for the summer, cotton is a go-to option. Not only is it a breathable material, but it’s soft and lightweight, making it ideal for hot, humid days. According to stylists, Egyptian cotton is among the best alternatives when it comes to this type of fabric because it is durable and high quality, and so is organic cotton, as it is grown without fertilizers and pesticides, and it’s ideal if you’re looking for an eco-friendly option.
If you want to DIY your outfits, and make a lasting impression, look no further than the African fabric, which stands out through bold patterns and vibrant colours, and is made of 100% cotton. You can use the fabric to add a touch of colour to your outfits and make them as beautiful as possible, whether you want to use it for your tops, skirts or dresses. One of the best things about cotton is that it is considered a hypoallergenic fabric, so it’s ideal if you have sensitive skin. Furthermore, cotton clothing offers unparalleled versatility, meaning you can pair the cotton shirt you love the most with denim shorts to create a casual outfit or opt for a cotton dress if you’re looking to achieve a more elegant look. If you want colourful, vibrant clothes, you can always opt for an African print, allowing you to showcase your personality through a bold choice, and offer support to artisans and designers who craft these types of fabrics with care and skill.
Linen
Linen is a classic when it comes to the best summer fabrics, giving off an effortlessly chic tropical vacation vibe. And let’s be honest: who wouldn’t love that during this season? It’s a natural fabric created from the flax plant’s fibre and has many features that are ideal for any summer outfit, from excellent breathability to lightweight texture. Furthermore, it stands out for its strength and durability as well as its timeless appeal and will surely add a touch of sophistication to your summer wardrobe.
When choosing linen as a fabric, consider opting for wide-leg pants, oversized shirts or flowy dresses, as these will help maximize breathability and comfort. Also, make sure to stick to light-coloured garments, such as beige, white, and soft neutrals, as they will not absorb sunlight, therefore enhancing the cooling effect. For instance, you can create an elegant outfit by pairing beige linen trousers with a white linen shirt.
Rayon
With its smooth texture, rayon is one of the best fabric choices you can make for the hottest days, as it will keep you cool and comfortable. It offers breathability and provides the same luxurious look as silk does. This versatile fabric is made from regenerated cellulose fibres and stands out for its silky and smooth texture. One of its best features is represented by its moisture-wicking capabilities, helping to evaporate moisture easily so you can stay cooler. This can be particularly beneficial when you’re on the go or during very humid days.
Besides, its versatility enables you to blend rayon with fibres such as linen and cotton, which will further enhance its breathability, and at the same time, allow you to wear it in style in both a casual way and for more polished looks.
Chambray
People often confuse chambray with denim; however, the former is a much lighter option, making it perfect for the summer. It's flexible and soft, so you can wear it in different styles, from jumpsuits and dresses to button-ups. Due to its versatility, chambray is indeed a valuable addition to your summer wardrobe, allowing you to style it for different occasions. This fabric looks really great as a light layer for cool summer moments, like a nighttime barbecue. One great idea is to layer your chambray shirt as a lightweight jacket over a tank top or t-shirt. Or, you can cover your shoulders with it to achieve a casual look.
If you style Chambray correctly, you can also wear it at the office. For instance, you can pair a button-down shirt made of this material with a pencil skirt or customized trousers. Make sure to choose darker chambray shades if you want to achieve a more polished look and add a blazer or a statement necklace to the outfit to make a statement.
The bottom line
These are our top 4 picks for the best summer fabrics that will allow you to feel as comfortable as possible – while also keeping your wardrobe stylish. While you may like fabrics like denim, spandex or polyester, you want to avoid them during the hot weather because they will trap moisture and make you sweat. The same goes for leather and satin – because they are not breathable and too thick, they will cause visible sweat stains; and who wants that? To make sure you will stay cool in the heat, check your clothing labels to see the type of fabric - this way, you can wear your summer outfits for maximum comfort.
