I just adore summer style. However, I don’t enjoy the hot and humid heat in the South. If you’ve never experienced “swamp butt” and boob sweat, consider yourself lucky. And if you have, I’m sharing 10 must-know hacks to dress for hot weather so you can keep cool all summer long.
These summer fashion tips will help to keep you cooler. However, you don’t have to follow every single one throughout summer. They’re just important to keep in mind if you’re going to be outside and want to dress appropriately for the heat.
10 Must-Know Hacks to Dress for Hot Weather
My must-know style hacks to stay chic in the heat
1. Textured Fabrics
When it comes to dressing for hot weather, it’s important to reach for breathable fabrics during summer. Think linen, seersucker, and cotton. You also want to avoid clingy synthetic fabrics like polyester. Always double-check the lining in your dresses and blazers, because you can often find polyester is used.
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2. Loose fitting Garments
Going with a flower fit over something more fitted will allow more circulation of air under your clothing. For example, wearing jean shorts vs. a flowy skirt. I have been loving a midi or maxi dress lately. You can easily throw them on with a great pair of sandals, like these Tory Burch Cloud sandals. If you’ve been thinking about making the investment in these, read THIS POST first!
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3. Opt for Lighter Colors
Dark colors like black and navy absorb more heat. Stick with light and airy colors like white and blush to avoid attracting the sun. Lucky for me, most of my wardrobe is made up of neutrals and shades of pink. But I have so many friends who have a wardrobe full of black. While I love an all black neutral look, if you want to look chic in the heat, you may want to consider pink as the new black!
4. Avoid hats unless it’s made of straw
Did you know, you lose the most heat through your head? Yep, it’s true! So if you’re going to be out in the heat, avoid trapping in the heat with thick hats. Of course, straw hats are an exception during summer because they allow heat to dissipate and also shield you from the sun. I’m a huge fan of straw hats, because not only do they help with sun protection, but they instantly make any outfit look chic! To see a complete roundup of straw hats, check out this post full of chic straw hats for every style!
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5. Choose the right undergarments
Of all the hacks to dress for hot weather, this one may be the most important, for building a look that is cool. If you like padded bras, switch to something with a lighter lining to avoid boob sweat. I have been loving the wireless bra from Soma’s Enbliss Collection. It’s perfect to wear in hot weather, because you don’t have to worry about an uncomfortable wire. Another personal favorite of mine is an adhesive bra. I love that it’s completely strap free and super comfortable. Another option for staying cool in the heat is to choose cotton, breathable thongs. This one is my favorite to wear under white dresses. If you’re looking for even less coverage, I love these nippies when I feel like my garment provides enough support.
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6. Carry a smaller bag
Carrying a large, leather tote isn’t the most practical for summer. Switch to a smaller crossbody to keep your arms hands free or carry a chic straw bag to stay cooler. I personally love a shoulder bag that converts into a crossbody for when I am going for a more elevated look. However, if I’m wanting a more laid bag feel, I’ll grab a straw bag. You can even tie a hair scarf around your straw bag to give it a little more character. Then You’ll have it handy in case you need to pull your hair up!
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7. Keep your hair off your neck
Have fun switching up your summer hair styles with braids and chic buns to keep your hair off your neck. If you’re ready for a change, you can also cut off some length to stay cooler! I love adding patterned hair scarfs to level up my looks. I simply tie my hair in a high pony tail with an elastic holder. Then I place the hair scarf over the hair tie. My hair is fine, so sometime the hair scarf alone don’t want to stay in place. You could also add a fun headband just to get the hair out of your face. This may be a great option if you already have shorter hair. I shared one of my favorite summer braids in this tutorial over on Instagram!
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8. Keep Your Jewelry to a Minimum
Jewelry is one of those things that can get heavy very quickly. If you have too many stacked bracelets or are sporting a chunky necklace, you may start to feel the heat sooner. The metal against your skin can become hot and sticky, making you feel weighed down. Instead opt for subtle, dainty jewelry. Keep your jewelry to just you watch and one or two bracelet. You can add an earring for a fun pop if you want to add a little something to your look.
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9. Open Toe Summer Shoes
Keep your footwear open during summer to avoid trapping in body heat. Making the switch from a sneaker or espadrille to a sandal can make all the difference! Not only will your little piggies be free, but you’ll notice a huge difference in your overall body temperature. This will also help. if you are prone to swelling in the heat.
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10. Pack a mini fan
This small packable fan is perfect to keep in your purse! I am obsessed with mine. I take it everywhere with me. On our babymoon trip to Arizona, it was one of the first things I put in my carryon. Tim always laughs at me, but he was glad I brought it in that desert heat!
Which hacks to dress for hot weather do you plan to try this summer?
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Are you looking for Summer outfit inspiration? Check out the Strawberry Chic Summer Lookbook with 20+ curated looks inside!
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