Becoming relieved of the thick layers of winter clothing that kept you warm and shielded you from chilly winds is one of the many joys of summer. All those heavy coats, sweaters, and turtlenecks have been replaced with airy, light apparel. Although it may be tempting to limit yourself to a single layer and stick with it until the first crisp fall days, layering is still a good idea during the warmer months. When the typical summer attire starts to feel uninspired, adding layers to your wardrobe can keep you warm when unexpected colds arrive and improve your appearance. Continue reading to find out how to layer when it becomes hot so you can stay cool and stylish all season long.
Why Layer?
Layering clothes in summer has its own benefits and below are a few common reasons why you should do it.
Style
Layering gives clothing for hot weather panache and changes up your overall appearance. Despite the heat and humidity’s best efforts to make you feel like a bedraggled mess, you’ll look your best with light layers draped over your favorite tees and tanks, or wrapped around a sundress or chinos. The cozy corner of your bedsheet that you continue to place over your feet despite the oppressive heat is an example of how layering in the summer may be beneficial.
Comfort
Every season, including the summer, has the potential to change the way things are. You could need more than a small tank if you leave the house in the morning before the dew has dried off the lawn. The heat might hit you like an uncomfortable wall later in the day when you go out for lunch or afternoon errands. Yet after the sun sets in the evening, the temperature typically drops back down. Of course, there are also artificial temperature swings throughout the day to be aware of, such as those that occur in locations like offices and shopping malls where the air conditioning seems to have been set to a subarctic temperature. Using layers allows you to control these occasionally dramatic differences with ease.
Tips For Layering In Summer
We have gathered a few very helpful tips so that you can freely layer and play with your outfits in summer.
Lightweight
Every layer should be constructed of textiles that ventilate and move freely in hot temperatures. Consider fabrics like georgette, chambray, chiffon, seersucker, jersey, cotton, and linen. On hot days, these textiles reduce the heat and let flying winds cool your skin. Make sure the fabric feels light and airy because any cloth, no matter how tightly woven, has the potential to trap heat. To check if the knit is open enough to let light and air through, try holding the fabric up to the light.
Loose
In order for the air to freely reach your skin when you are layering, your summer clothing should have some give. Even the clothing item that is next to your skin, like a pair of cotton shorts or a linen tank top, needs to be a little baggy to allow for circulation.
Linen
Linen is the ideal summer fabric because of its unrivaled breathability and appreciated cooling qualities. Natural wicking properties of linen allow perspiration to go from your body and into the air, where it can evaporate. Since at least 30,000 years ago, people have been making all-natural textiles by weaving threads from spun flax plant fibers. Because of the fabric’s extraordinary strength and durability, linen shirts, trousers and skirts can survive for many years with proper care, but it is also the main factor in the fabric’s infamous wrinkling. Consider the necessary crinkles as a testimonial to the carefree attitude of summer and take pleasure in staying cool with this crumple-chic style.
Easy Access
The ability to easily put on and take off garments is essential while layering in hot weather. Lightweight cardigans worn undone, linen jackets, or lightweight blazers are all suitable choices for layering for both men and women. They can be easily put over your shoulders or wrapped around your waist if the warmth rises until they are needed again.
Light Colors
Keep your outer layer of clothing either on the light side of the spectrum or pure white during the day when the sun is scorching. Darker hues absorb heat and reflect it back onto your skin, warming you when you’d rather be cooling down. During high noon, you’ll notice a change in how comfortable you feel because light colors reflect so much heat.
Cotton
There is no avoiding the fact that sweating occurs in the heat. Your best line of defence against the hottest, muggiest days is wicking clothing. The oldest fabric made by man is naturally wicking linen, which keeps you cool in a chic manner. Nonetheless, there are numerous contemporary and stylish performance fabric options for sportswear, casual wear, and even dressier outfits. These materials help keep you cool and dry on warm days, whether you are jogging, hiking, or simply relaxing in the backyard. They are made of synthetic blends that breathe, repel water, and draw water away from the skin at the same time. Make sure the performance textiles are the innermost layer adjacent to your skin while layering so they can function as intended.
Scarf
Although scarves are more frequently associated with the winter, the perfect wrap may give a tee or sundress an extra layer of lightness and a vibrant flash of color. To allow air to circulate about you, the scarf’s fabric should be light and its weave or knit airy. It should also be wrapped or draped loosely. Summer scarves made of linen, silk, cotton, bamboo, or lace work well. Another choice is to wear a thin bandana around your neck or keep one in your pocket so you can access it quickly. This enhances style and color while preventing sweat and even fending off pesky insects.
Belt
A slender belt, a canvas belt with design, or a knit belt with openwork may be a better alternative to your plain leather belt. They will improve the texture and appearance of a pair of khaki or linen shorts while enhancing the airflow around your waist. The belt can also be seen by half-tucking your top.
Color And Pattern
While layering in the summer, you may enhance your look with color and designs without packing on too much bulk. Scarves, bandanas, lightweight cardigans, and even patterned socks made of wicking materials make it simple to add contrasting colors, textures, and patterns to your ensemble.
Summer layering is a simplistic art that essentially comes down to selecting one or two accent pieces. Avoid going overboard to avoid introducing undesirable heat and weight. Yet, if you use summer layering properly, it will keep you cool and make you seem put together over the lengthy, hot summer days.