Easy-Breezy: Best Fabrics To Keep You Cool In the Heat

by Sana Bun

Easy-Breezy: Best Fabrics To Keep You Cool In the Heat

21 May 2024

Amidst sweltering temperatures, fashion choices suddenly become crucial from a practical perspective as using the right fabrics can make a huge difference in keeping you cool. Join us as we navigate the realm of summer must-haves to ensure your comfort under the scorching sun.

Cotton

Obtained from cottonseed, this cloth doesn’t really need an introduction. Exceptional breathability, lightness, water absorbency, and great drying ability make cotton one of the most used natural cellulosic fibers, so urge to accommodate clothes made from it in your closet. Pitch upon Pima or Egyptian cotton for extra softness and durability and search for an ‘organic’ label for a chemicals-free, non-genetically engineered product.

Proenza Schouler; Dries Van Noten; Mara Hoffman. Source: net-a-porter.com

Linen

Linen, made from fibers of flax plant stems, is stronger than cotton and, unlike it, dries quickly which improves heat abstraction and makes the material perfect for hot and humid climates. Linen generally tends to wrinkle, which, in our opinion, is not a problem, but a charming feature.

Zimmermann; Brunello Cucinelli; Faithfull The Brand. Source: net-a-porter.com

Hemp

Another great heat-proof material is hemp produced from stems of the Cannabis sativa. Its texture combines gentleness and sturdiness, reminding both cotton and canvas-like cloth. This fabric is very durable and highly breathable which allows effective passage of moisture. As a nice bonus, hemp is not shrinkable, so you can save time on steaming.

12 STOREEZ; Mara Hoffman. Source: ounass.ae; net-a-porter.com

Bamboo

Bamboo fabric, derived from bamboo grass, is a deadly combo in the fight with extreme heat due to its softness, strength, and resilience. The textile is hypoallergic and biodegradable, has great thermo-regulating properties, and even protects the skin from UV rays (read here why it is important).

Photo: Brentano

Rayon

Rayon aka regenerated cellulose, chemically extracted from trees, might be very confusing: not by its qualities, but by its name, as different brands use different titles. Rayon, Viscose, Tencel, and Lyocell are manufactured with the same technology and all have a comfortable light and silky texture that nicely absorbs moisture.

Source: cos.com

Silk

You might think that being thin and delicate, silk is also very fragile, but it is a misconception. Made from fiber produced by the silkworm, it is one of the strongest and the most elastic fabrics. It allows the skin to breathe, is fairly absorbent, fast-drying, and magnificently looking at the same time.

Source: us.oliviavonhalle.com

Merino wool

At first sight, wool has an association with cold winter months and big cozy sweaters, but,in fact, certain types of fiber from fleece animals work in hot conditions as well. For instance, thin merino wool wicks moisture, providing decent air ventilation, while also being odor and anti-microbial resistant.

The Knotty Ones; TOVE; The Knotty Ones. Source: theknottyones.com; net-a-porter.com

by Sana Bun