I remember years ago when the only breathable summer fabric I thought to be out there was chiffon. And while it is easier to produce and very easy to find, there are also many other fabrics that are not only becoming way more accessible but also very lightweight.
Now for me, finding breathable fabrics is so important. Especially since I’m not one to show off much skin. So, I love finding pieces that are both modest, appealing and lightweight. This is especially important when I look for summer pants and tops. But what are these fabrics and where can you find them? Let’s dive in and see.
The Best
1. Rayon/Viscose
Rayon has always been a great go-to fabric when it comes to the heat. They not only absorb perspiration easily but it is also very lightweight. So, it keeps you cool. You can typically find shorts, pants and even dresses in this fabric! I recently bought a pair of shorts from Old Navy in Rayon/Viscose and love it so much.
Viscose is basically a synonym for Rayon fabric and it has been emerging in popular stores such as H&M. I own at least 5 of their products that are 100% viscose and while this material is by no means stretchy, it is a great option for the summer. For those of you who don’t know what it is, Viscose is made from wood pulp. Yes, actual wood! Similar to linen and cotton. The name come from the high amount of treated cellulose that’s used to create it.
The only thing I’d warn you about this material is that it does shrink when washed & dried in the machine. So, I’d recommend air drying it! But, it’s been my favorite summer fabric this year!
2. Cotton
This is a well known fabric for the summer. Cotton is the largest produced fabric in the world and it is absolutely versatile. Meaning, you can find just about anything in this fabric. Like Viscose, it is typically not stretchy but is also great at absorbing perspiration.
It is also great at helping air circulate through it. Rather than trapping heat, it allows it to escape; keeping your body cool. Stores such as Cotton On, Target, Old Navy, Boden US, Primark and more have a plethora of this fabric.
3. Linen
A theme you’ll note with these breathable fabrics is that they are all breathable, absorbent and somewhat lightweight. Linen is no different. It’s ability to absorb water and allow heat to escape from the body lends itself to being a great summer fabric. A bonus about this fabric is that is heat- reflective.
When I think of Linen, I think of classy. You’ll find that this fabric isn’t always cheap. But, it’s a great option to have in your closet. I’ve purchased some linen clothes at Old Navy/Banana Republic, Madewell & Boden USA.
4. Chiffon
And last, but certainly not least is Chiffon! Like I said earlier, there was definitely a point and time where just about EVERYTHING was made out of chiffon. But , I’m so glad to see that stores are diversifying again. The thing about this fabric is that it not only feels lightweight but it looks like it too; and that isn’t a compliment. Something that turned me away from wearing Chiffon was how see through it is. I felt like I always needed to wear a camisole or slip underneath. Which, in my honest opinion, defeats the purpose of how breathable it is.
But, that doesn’t negate the fact that it is a great option for summer. It’s typical loose fit and light layer is a great choice for the hot months. It’s also a naturally “dressy” material; meaning that it is great for special events and corporate life. Another downside to chiffon though is that, along with perspiration, it absorbs scents VERY easily. So be mindful of that when wearing this fabric.
5. Wool
Surprised? I totally get it. When I think of wool, I think of thick fabric. And that automatically puts it in the category of winter clothes. However, I wanted to add it on this list because just as it keeps you warm in the winter, it is able to keep you cool during the summer. But of course, this only applies to the summer weight wool.
This type of fabric is also a great material for men's suit in the summer as well. Well, Fresco wool that is. It's known to be softer than linen and allows more airflow than cotton does. So, when you're browsing around, don't skip out on this material!
The Worst
We’ve considered fabrics that you can breathe in during the summer, what about the worst fabrics to wear in the summertime. Let’s consider some obvious and not-so- obvious options that you should stay away from during the sweltering hot months.
1. 100% Polyester
Now, this is one that I didn’t really know about until recently. I’m pretty sure half of my closet is made out of polyester too. But, the thing about Polyester is that it is water resistant. So it is less likely to absorb perspiration and might actually trap in moisture; making you even hotter.
With this fabric though, it depends on what you plan to do in that outfit. If you are sleeping during the summer months, polyester is a no-go. Due to it's lack of absorbance, it is most likely to stick to you.
2. Lycra or Spandex
Though this is a great material for exercise due to it's flexibility, but because of it's makeup, it tends to trap moisture against your skin. This is why they may be great to wear during winter time. You'll often see this fabric in your leggings. But, if you're doing a summer workout or strolling around in the heat, I highly recommend you choose another option.
3. Denim (Jeans)
While denim jackets can be pulled off during summer due to it's lighter weight material. Denim jeans are most likely to stick closer to your skin and trap heat in. The good news is that it absorbs moisture as it's made of cotton. But, it takes longer to dry meaning the moisture that is absorbed is basically trapped in the material and against your skin. This is when things get uncomfortable!
I love wearing denim though! And I wouldn't shy away from wearing denim jackets during the summer months. However, I'd stay away from denim jeans when in extremely warm conditions. Keep an eye out on ways I style my denim jacket!
4. Nylon
You might find this fabric mixed with other materials in your clothes. But, you wouldn't want to wear clothes that are 100% Nylon as they can definitely make you hot. Similar to the other fabrics that aren't designed for summer, Nylon traps heat and moisture. It's inability to absorb water makes it an ideal choice for cooler weather but not warmer weather.
But it general, Nylon is known to cause skin irritation due to it's water repellant nature. Meaning that humidity-breeding moisture gets trapped. This is the process that causes skin irritation. If you suffer from Eczema, like myself, I highly recommend you avoid wearing this material. Especially around affected areas.
In Conclusion,
It's great to know what to and what not to wear in different seasons. For a while, I never cared about it. As long as it was cute, I would wear it. But, now I'm all about what looks cute and is also comfortable. If I'm uncomfortable in a specific fabric, I'm less likely to wear it during it's intended season. So, now I make smart purchases by looking at the fabric my clothes are made up of. I hope you found this helpful! Comment down below any other fabrics that I may have missed.
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