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We’ve all seen—or even been—that person braving the 40-degree weather in leather outerwear all for the sake of style. That’s a level of commitment that’s both admirable and impractical. But let’s face it: your fur coats and double-lined jackets don’t really suit the scorching days of Philippine summers.
Thankfully, there are ways to successfully navigate dressing for the tropical season. It all begins with learning which fabrics are breathable, which silhouettes provide the most ventilation, which colors won’t betray you, and which final touches can really make you stand out.
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Know Which Fabrics Let Your Skin Breathe
The bottom line is that staying cool depends entirely on the material. It’s worth checking the clothing tags on your favorite pieces. Lightweight options such as cotton, linen, real silk, or jersey make layering possible. On the other hand, steer clear of synthetics like nylon and polyester.
Keep Your Silhouettes Loose and Airy
Form-fitting choices are okay if the material is breathable. Generally, though, it’s recommended to stay breezy. Long skirts, dresses, and harem pants are your best friends. Loose denim can also work if that’s your preferred style of trousers.
Choose Your Colors Carefully
Those who often wear black already know that it can feel hotter to sport under the sun. While it’s wiser to pivot toward brighter colors, keep in mind that it’s often much easier to spot sweat stains on pastels. That being said, the right cut and fabric will make almost any color more forgiving.
Play Around with Texture and Accessories
Finally, don’t miss out on the details. Consider looking into fringe that adds movement or ruffles that provide texture. Asymmetry and cut-outs are also interesting choices. And in terms of accessories, the world is your oyster. Go wild through jewelry stacks, belts, and thin, sheer tights.
Photos: TORY BURCH, MARYAM NASSIR ZADEH, PALOMA WOOL, and CHANEL
Frequently Asked Questions
The most important factor in staying cool is the material of your clothing, so it is essential to check tags for breathable fabrics. Lightweight options such as cotton, linen, real silk, and jersey are ideal because they allow for layering without trapping heat. Conversely, you should steer clear of synthetic materials like nylon and polyester, which lack the ventilation needed for 40-degree weather.
While form-fitting clothes are acceptable if the material is right, it is generally recommended to opt for loose and airy silhouettes that provide plenty of ventilation. Long skirts, flowing dresses, and harem pants are considered wardrobe staples for the season. If you prefer trousers, loose-fitting denim is a viable alternative that keeps the look stylish without feeling too restrictive.
Choosing colors requires a balance between heat absorption and visibility. While black is known to feel hotter under the sun, bright colors are a wiser choice for reflecting heat; however, be mindful that sweat stains are much easier to spot on pastel shades. Ultimately, selecting the right cut and breathable fabric will make almost any color more forgiving and comfortable to wear.
To keep a summer outfit from looking plain, you can experiment with textures like fringe for movement or ruffles for added dimension. Design elements such as asymmetry and strategic cut-outs also add visual interest without adding bulk. For the final touches, you can get creative with accessories by using jewelry stacks, belts, and even thin, sheer tights to make the look stand out.
The golden rule for staying cool is to prioritize materials that allow your skin to breathe, which requires checking the labels of your favorite pieces. You should favor natural, lightweight options like cotton, linen, silk, and jersey, as these allow for layering without overheating. On the other hand, you should strictly avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon, as they tend to trap heat and moisture against the body.
