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My husband and I met on a blind date in 98-degree weather. I wore a breezy dress (more about that later), but Martin showed up straight from work in a shirt and tie, sweat dripping down his face.
After we were seated at a nearby restaurant, he excused himself to go to the bathroom. And didn’t return for 20 minutes. Just as I was sure he’d either abandoned me or had a heart attack, he reappeared, having taken off his shirt to try and dry it under the bathroom hand dryer and washing his underarms with a wet paper towel the best he could.
Nearly 30 years later, I’m happy to say that the date worked out. And that that sweet story is one we laugh about now. But it didn’t feel so funny to Martin at the time.
Whether you live in New York, as I do, or Seattle, where the 2021 heatwave produced temperatures that broke 100 degrees, there’s little escaping summer’s hot weather and humidity. I know that dressing comfortably and stylishly during these blistering months may seem like an oxymoron, but read on. The right clothing can help manage the discomfort of sweltering temps, and it can also provide an opportunity for self-expression.
· Know Your Fabrics: One of the most crucial aspects of dressing for a heatwave is the choice of fabric. Martin’s problem on that long-ago date was that his shirt was polyester, not one of the natural fibers that we should all be wearing in the summer, such as cotton. Cotton is lightweight, soft and absorbent and keeps you cool in hot weather by allowing moisture to evaporate.
· Linen is known for its exceptional “breathability,” allowing air flow between your skin and the outside environment. Silk is a luxurious choice for hot weather. Chambray, a blend of cotton and linen, is a versatile fabric that's soft, comfortable, and, yes, breathable.
· Keep it Breezy: Like a summer romance, summer clothes should be lightweight and fun. There are so many reasons that I wouldn’t think of wearing a tank top and shorts, but one of them is that you want to avoid “tiny” clothes in the summer. Although covering up in a heatwave may seem counterintuitive, you actually don’t want the sun on your skin — it’ll make you hotter. The trick is to cover yourself in a shape and fabric that allows for ventilation.
· Try to avoid zippers, spandex, cinched waists, tight armholes that may rub against your skin and even too many accessories. To that end, look for loose-fitting maxi dresses with sleeves; A-line or full skirts are fantastic for their flared shape, which allows for air circulation; and flowy pants with drawstring or elastic waists, which can be comfortable and chic.
· Big crisp shirts in a size larger than the one you usually opt for should be a staple. Wear them untucked with jeans or tucked into a pair of wide-legged slacks for a more formal look. Insider tip: Buy your shirts in the men’s department; you just might find that they’re better quality — and cheaper.
· Color: You may already know that white is the ultimate summer color as it reflects sunlight rather than absorbing it, which helps to keep your body cooler, while black clothing absorbs heat and can make you feel warmer. Then, too, white tends to give off a fresh, light vibe that says “summer.” Shades of yellow and light grey will also help you beat the heat, according to a 2019 study National Institute of Environmental Studies in Japan
· Accessorize wisely: The right accessories can elevate an outfit while also offering sun protection — a crucial consideration during a heatwave. Hats are more than a fashion statement; they protect the face from harmful UV rays. Wide-brimmed straw hats or stylish caps with UV protection can be trendy and functional. Lightweight scarves can serve multiple purposes: they can keep the neck cool or serve as a shawl when entering heavily air-conditioned buildings. I like to carry a thin cardigan with me because I’m sensitive to AC. Cardigans worn at hip-length or longer in cotton; lightweight cashmere — for a splurge!; or a waffle weave are popular right now, as are waterfall cardigans, which are buttonless and hang in folds at the front.
· Sunglasses with UV protection are essential. Drugstore sunglasses that offer UV protection are better than designer ones that don’t. Look for labels that say “100% UV protection, or “UV absorption up to 400 nanometers.” Oversized and wrap-around frames offer style along with the best protection.
· Footwear should be comfortable, breathable, and supportive, especially during hot weather when feet can swell. Sandals made from breathable materials such as leather or synthetic fabrics that allow airflow are excellent choices. Look for options with arch support to provide comfort throughout the day. A pair of chic, flat sandals can complete a summer dress elegantly. Sneakers or slip-ons are ideal for casual outings — they offer cushioning and support, which is beneficial for walking around town or enjoying outdoor activities. Lightweight, mesh options prevent feet from overheating.
· Undergarments: I don’t know about you, but the first thing I do when I get home — winter, spring, summer, or fall — is fling off my bra. In the summer, I’m practically unhooking my bra before I put the key in the lock to open my door. One reason, I found out, is that most bras are made from synthetic materials like polyester, which are constricting. Cotton, mesh, linen or bamboo bras (some made with perforations) can prevent boob sweat, chafing and irritation by allowing air flow to keep breasts separated, dry and supported. Avoid bras with embellishments as they cause chafing and rashes.
· Don’t wear underwired bras for everyday use during the hot summer months. Instead, choose cotton T-shirt material and lightly added bras that provide the best support and comfort. Make sure that your bra fits well. Tight-fitting bras can restrict movement and cause discomfort, especially in the heat.
· Cotton, silk or moisture-wicking underpants are top-notch for allowing airflow and absorbing moisture. Again, how things fit is what matters most, so go for styles that feel comfortable and don’t constrict. Even if you’ve chosen breathable clothing, be mindful of where skin may be exposed to other skin. For example, wearing a skirt in the summer can lead to chafing between the legs. If you’re prone to chafing, wearing a pair of bike or compression shorts underneath can help protect the skin from friction; still, in a heatwave, I’d be wary of adding another layer of clothing. Instead, try using an anti-chafing balm. Or, wear a pair of wide-legged, flowy pants. Which, frankly, along with my oversized men’s shirts and a trio of tiered maxi dresses, is my personal summer uniform.
· By the way, if you’re wondering what happened to the polyester shirt that Martin wore on our first blind date ... he’s kept it as a memento, and he wears it every year on our WEDDING anniversary, which, luckily, is in February.
Wishing you a cool and happy summer!
What do YOU typically like to wear in the summer? Dresses? Shorts? Let us know in the comments below.
Sunny Eckerle
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