Summer is a delightful season when people go outside to do sports, have barbecues, or soak up the sun at the pool or the beach. However, we all know that when the mercury rises, it can sometimes be way too hot outside to properly enjoy the season. This is why paying attention to the fabrics you wear during this time is so incredibly important, as they can make a huge difference in how you feel.
But how do you even know which material is best during hot weather? We know it can be tricky to dress for the summer heat, so we’re here to help you make an informed decision and choose the best fabrics that will keep you cool even in the hottest summer months.
Which are the most breathable fabrics for the summer?
Linen
Linen is among the top choices for hot weather, as it has incredible qualities that will provide maximum comfort for the summer. This fabric has exceptional breathability, enabling the air to circulate freely and ensuring you will stay cool when the temperatures are high outside. Not only is linen lightweight, but it’s also excellent when it comes to heat regulation while also adapting to your body’s needs. The two words that best characterise linen are comfort and dryness – and it’s all thanks to its wicking features that ensure moisture will be pulled away from your skin immediately so that you can step under the sun confidently throughout the day.
Cotton
Cotton is the most evident choice for summer, as its unique fibre structure allows your skin to breathe properly while absorbing sweat so you can be comfortably dry. Cotton is lightweight and soft and comes in many colours and styles, making it easy to find a cotton garment you will love. The good news about this material is that it is adaptable, which means you can wear it during other seasons as well, not only in warmer months.
Rayon
Here’s a stellar choice for your summer wardrobe: rayon, a man-made fabric consisting of wood pulp, cotton, and other synthetic or natural fibres. This material is more absorbent than cotton, making it ideal for those steamy days when you want to feel dry and comfy in your clothes! Rayon will feel as light as a breeze on your skin due to its fabric, which enables the air to circulate easily and ensures your clothes won’t stick to your body during hot days. Whether you go on a picnic in the park or attend an outdoor event, you can easily incorporate rayon into your wardrobe to maximise comfort under the blazing sun.
Silk
Silk is an excellent choice for summer if you’re looking for a fabric that’s luxurious to the touch and will provide comfort and opulence at the same time. Designers often use silk when creating pyjamas and casual shirts for the sweltering summer months, so you cannot go wrong with this material – besides, its versatility means that you can use silk pieces to dress up or down, depending on the occasion, allowing you to blend elegance with practicality seamlessly.
Is polyester good for summer?
Yes, polyester is an excellent choice for the summer, allowing you to stay cool in the heat. This material is created from durable plastic fibres and is usually used for workout clothes due to its sweat-wicking capabilities. But it’s also an excellent choice for casual summer clothing, such as men’s swimming trunks like the ones from Orlebar Brown, which are made from recycled polyester, guaranteeing maximum comfort during hot weather. Wrinkle resistance is one of the most outstanding characteristics of polyester, benefiting especially those who plan their vacations during summertime. Although there have been concerns regarding polyesters’ breathability, it’s worth noting that modern technology is playing a massive role in improving the fabric so it can become the go-to option for many who prioritise comfort above all else during summer.
Can you wear Orlebar Brown swim shorts as normal shorts?
Orlebar Brown swim shorts are ideal for spending the day at the pool or the beach, but given their versatility, you can also wear them as regular shorts by accessorising them with sandals, sunglasses, and a light shirt. We all know that a good-quality garment isn’t just about fashion but about function as well, so Orlebar Brown swim shorts are definitely a good option when looking to maximise the potential of your wardrobe. If you consider some rules, such as being picky about the fabric of the shorts and pairing them correctly with a top, you can confidently wear your swim shorts as normal shorts without worrying that your look won’t be on point.
What are some factors to consider when choosing suitable fabrics for the summer?
When choosing fabrics for the summer, there are a few factors that you need to consider so you can ensure both practicality and comfort, including the following:
- Moisture management. While lightweight, breathable fabrics can reduce sweat, moisture-wicking materials take things one step further by evaporating moisture away from the skin through the body’s natural cooling mechanism.
- Durability. Summer activities are quite demanding when it comes to clothing, so it makes sense to choose more durable materials, right? Polyester can be an excellent option to this end, as it is resistant to tearing and fraying and will maintain its appearance over time.
- Ease of care. You will probably wash your summer clothes frequently, so it’s essential to prioritise ease of maintenance when looking for the best fabrics. Polyester and cotton blends are low-maintenance materials, so they are the go-to options for the summer.
- Fit. If you’re planning to mainly relax during summer, you definitely need to opt for a loose fit; on the other hand, if you seek to be more active, you need clothes that will be in contact with your skin, which are neither too billowy nor skintight.
The best summer materials balance moisture management with comfort and breathability, and as seen in the blog, there are many options, ranging from cotton and linen to polyester and silk. Ultimately, it’s essential to consider your unique needs and your plans for the summer so you can choose a fabric that will allow you to make the most of this fantastic season.