In the heat, the main rule of style is not to undress to a minimum, but to choose the right clothes. A light shirt made of breathable material will save you from overheating much better than an open synthetic top that will instantly stick to your body. Today we’re looking at what tags you should pay attention to this summer.
“Look at the composition of the fabric, and not just the beautiful style. The right material is 90% of summer comfort. It should work like a second skin: breathe, wick away moisture and not create a greenhouse effect,” shares the author of the zen channel “PROmody Marina Limphina” (12+).
Tencel (lyocell)
This material is made from wood pulp, most often eucalyptus. It feels like natural silk to the touch, but is much more practical.
Why it's cool: The fabric glides gently over the skin, does not prick, and perfectly absorbs moisture, quickly evaporating it. Unlike linen, Tencel wrinkles much less and does not require complicated ironing.
What to wear with: Ideal for slip dresses, loose trousers and midi skirts. If the item is supposed to be tight-fitting, look for a small percentage of elastane in the composition (up to 5%). This way the fit will be neat, and the fabric will not treacherously emphasize everything unnecessary.
Bamboo
Bamboo fiber has long been common. It is light, soft and perfectly breathable, preventing the body from overheating.
Why it's cool: Bamboo helps keep you feeling fresh longer, even in the evening, making it ideal for everyday wear.
Important nuance: Bamboo viscose is most often found in stores. It's comfortable, but not always as breathable as more expensive options. Always look at the composition: the higher the percentage of bamboo fiber, the better the item will perform in the heat. A great choice for t-shirts, tops and relaxed loungewear sets.
Rami
Ramie is made from Chinese nettle fibers. It sounds exotic, but in appearance the material is very clear: it resembles linen, only it looks a little smoother, denser and more expensive.
Why it's cool: The main advantage of ramie is that it holds its shape perfectly. If linen quickly becomes covered with chaotic creases, then ramie looks more collected and neat, at the same time it breathes just as well and dries quickly.
Important note: At first wear, ramie may seem a little stiff, but after a couple of washes it becomes very soft. It makes chic shirts, palazzo pants and lightweight summer suits.
Muslin – weightlessness effect
Muslin is not a specific fiber, but a special type of loose weave (usually cotton). The fabric is thin, airy and incredibly light.
“The main feeling of muslin is that you are wearing almost nothing, but the image remains thoughtful and stylish. Air flows freely through such a fabric, which is critical in extreme heat.”
Important nuance: Muslin has character. It wrinkles, may shrink a little after washing and does not like rough handling. But in loose silhouettes it looks perfect: hoodie dresses, long skirts, spacious tunics and pajama sets will work better in the summer than any tight items.
How to choose the perfect summer item: expert rules
- Read the tags. The higher the percentage of natural or cellulose fiber, the more comfortable it will be in the heat.
- Don't be afraid of a little synthetics. Adding up to 10% elastane or polyester is normal and even beneficial. It helps clothes keep their shape better, stretch less at the knees and not become deformed after washing.
- Divide your wardrobe according to situations. For the office and the city, choose Tencel or ramie: they look neat and do not resemble beachwear. For holidays and very hot days, take muslin. Leave bamboo for basic wardrobe and home use.
