Clothes for hot days

Short answer: Choose thin fabrics that move moisture, light or muted colours, and a fit that lets air in. The material matters more than the amount of fabric, so wearing less is not automatically cooler.

The fabric has to work

On a warm day the body sweats to get rid of heat. A fabric that absorbs sweat and releases it to the air helps cool the skin. A fabric that holds on to moisture does the opposite, because the sweat stays against the skin and feels clammy. See the thin qualities in bamboo sweatwear.

Thin rather than thick

A thin fabric lets heat escape more easily than a thick one. It also dries faster once it has absorbed moisture. So reach for the lightest pieces in the wardrobe when the temperature rises, and save the thicker ones for cooler days. A thin T-shirt or top does more than a heavy short sleeved sweatshirt.

Air between fabric and skin

A slightly loose fit lets air move between fabric and skin. That airflow carries heat away and helps sweat evaporate. Clothes that are tight all over shut the air out and trap the warmth. Choose a size that sits lightly and leaves a little room over the stomach and back.

But not too loose

Clothes that are too loose flap about and touch the skin too little to move moisture away. The sweat then stays put, even if the fabric itself is good. The best fit touches the skin in some places and leaves air in others. Browse all women's clothing for both closer and looser styles.

Underwear matters most

The innermost layer is where sweat starts, so it matters most for how the day feels. A thin layer that moves moisture makes the whole day better, even if the outer clothes are less ideal. If the inner layer holds moisture, the rest turns damp too. See also women's bamboo joggers.

Colour matters less than you think

Light colours reflect more sunlight than dark ones, and you feel it when standing in direct sun. Indoors and in the shade, colour hardly matters. Choose light or muted colours for days spent mostly outside, but do not let colour drive the choice more than material and fit.

A fresh change at midday

On a really hot day it is normal to change once or twice. A clean, dry piece at midday does more for comfort than anything else, because it removes the moisture that has built up. If you have a long day out, pack a spare top in your bag. It takes up almost no space.

Material before quantity

Many people think less clothing is always cooler. But a thin layer in a fabric that moves moisture can feel better than bare skin, because it absorbs sweat and spreads it out. So think about what your clothes are made of before you think about how much of them you wear.

Frequently asked questions

Is it cooler to go without underwear

No. Without a layer to absorb moisture, your outer clothes get damp instead, and that usually feels clammier than a thin layer underneath.

Which colour is coolest

Light colours in direct sun. Indoors, colour hardly matters, so fabric and fit decide how cool your clothes feel.

How often should you change on hot days

Once or twice. A clean change at midday does more than anything else, especially if you have been outside a lot or moving around.