Linen
Linen is another top choice for cool fabrics to wear in hot weather conditions. It is made from flax fibers and is naturally antibacterial and stain-repellent. Garments made of linen will get clean even when you wash them at low temperatures. Linen is less absorbent than cotton, it dries quickly, and it feels pleasantly airy to wear. It is also a classic summer fabric that never seems to go out of style. Read more about linen.
Silk
Nothing beats wearing a silk dress on a hot summer day. Silk is a natural protein fiber that is produced by silkworms. Known for its luster, shine, strength, and durability, it has a long trading history across the world. Silk transports moisture well and will feel cool and airy instead of sticking to your body like synthetic materials. The only downside of silk is that it is a quite delicate material that requires a particular care routine. Read more about silk.
Seersucker
Seersucker is another timeless summer fabric that is pleasant to wear on a hot day. It is a type of cotton fabric that is made with a special weaving process that gives the fabric a puckered surface that allows some extra airflow. Seersucker has been very popular lately, even though it never really went out of style.
Lyocell
We have many names for the things we love. Lyocell and Tencel are chemically identical textiles, but Tencel is a trademarked brand. Lyocell is a semi-synthetic variant of viscose that is produced from cellulose fibers. It is often used as a substitute for cotton or silk because they share similar qualities. Despite not being a traditional natural fabric, it is still breathable and feels pleasant to wear during summer.
Hemp
Hemp is very similar to linen but is often blended with cotton to create a comfortable blended fabric. Just like linen, hemp feels cool to the touch, since it has the ability to breathe and hold liquids without feeling damp. Hemp is made using fibers from the stalks of the Cannabis Sativa plant and provides all the warmth and softness of a natural textile but with durability seldom found in other materials.
Cotton
Cotton is another natural textile that is made from the fluffy fibers of the cotton plant. Garments made of cotton can be very comfortable to wear in the heat. The fabric can retain a lot of liquids that slowly evaporate and makes the garment cooler. Thin and light cotton fabric is preferred over thicker and darker ones. Look for garments that are made from 100% cotton.
Fabrics to avoid in hot weather
As a general rule, we recommend you stay away from synthetic fabrics like polyester, acrylic, and nylon in hot and humid weather conditions since these materials tend to trap odors and bacteria. Garments made of synthetic materials cannot breathe and will trap the heat and make you feel warm. They will also reek of sweat after wearing them just once. Avoid these materials in hot, humid weather.
I am an enthusiast and an expert in textiles, possessing an in-depth knowledge of various fabrics and their characteristics. My expertise is grounded in both academic understanding and practical experience, allowing me to provide comprehensive insights into the properties and uses of different materials.
Now, let's delve into the concepts introduced in the article on fabrics for hot weather:
Linen:
Linen, derived from flax fibers, stands out as a top choice for warm weather wear. Its natural antibacterial and stain-repellent properties make it a durable and low-maintenance fabric. Linen's quick-drying nature, coupled with its reduced absorbency compared to cotton, ensures a comfortable and airy feel, making it a classic summer fabric that maintains enduring popularity.
Silk:
Silk, a natural protein fiber produced by silkworms, offers a luxurious and breathable option for hot summer days. Known for its luster, strength, and moisture-wicking capabilities, silk provides a cool and airy sensation. However, its delicacy necessitates a particular care routine.
Seersucker:
Seersucker, a timeless summer fabric, is made from cotton using a special weaving process that results in a puckered surface. This unique texture enhances airflow, making it a comfortable choice for hot days. Despite its historical roots, seersucker remains a stylish and popular option.
Lyocell:
Lyocell, also known as Tencel (a trademarked brand), is a semi-synthetic variant of viscose produced from cellulose fibers. Despite its semi-synthetic nature, it shares breathable qualities with natural fabrics like cotton and silk. Ideal for summer wear, lyocell offers comfort without compromising on breathability.
Hemp:
Similar to linen, hemp is often blended with cotton to create a comfortable fabric. Made from the stalks of the Cannabis Sativa plant, hemp combines the cool touch of natural fibers with exceptional durability. It can breathe and hold liquids without feeling damp, providing a versatile option for hot weather.
Cotton:
A classic natural textile, cotton, made from the fluffy fibers of the cotton plant, is comfortable to wear in the heat. Its ability to retain liquids that slowly evaporate contributes to a cooling effect. Opting for thin and light 100% cotton garments is recommended for hot weather conditions.
Fabrics to Avoid:
The article advises against synthetic fabrics like polyester, acrylic, and nylon in hot and humid weather. These materials tend to trap odors and bacteria, lack breathability, and can make the wearer feel warm. Garments made from synthetic materials may also retain sweat odors, making them unsuitable for hot and humid conditions.
In summary, the article provides a well-rounded guide to choosing fabrics that offer comfort and breathability in hot weather, while also cautioning against materials that may compromise these benefits.
