Midsummer Eve by the bonfire, clothes that can handle smoke

Short answer: For Midsummer Eve by the bonfire, the best clothes are soft, easy to air out and not something you worry about getting smoky. Choose layers you can add and remove, and let anything that smells of fire hang outside before it goes in the wash.

Why smoke clings to clothes

Smoke is made of tiny particles that settle into the fibres of fabric and stay there, especially on soft surfaces. The smell comes from the fire and not from you, so it says nothing about the quality of the clothes. It simply means you should choose something you are happy to air out and wash afterwards.

Keep your distance from sparks

A bonfire sends up sparks now and then, and they can burn small holes in any clothing. Do not stand too close, and watch for sleeves that hang towards the flames. Fabrics that melt in heat are the worst, so avoid thin, slippery layers right next to the fire.

Layers for a cool evening

Midsummer Eve often starts warm and ends cool once the sun goes down over the water. Wear a thin T-shirt next to your body and something warmer on top, so you can adjust along the way. Taking a layer off while the fire warms you is far easier than shivering without a spare.

A jogging set for the evening

A soft sweat set is a good choice when you are sitting in the grass waiting for the fire to be lit. It fits loosely, so you can crouch or sit on a blanket without anything pulling. Look at bamboo jogging sets for men if the evening is going to be long.

The sweatshirt over a T-shirt

If you do not want a full set, a sweatshirt over a T-shirt is a simple answer. It holds the warmth when the wind comes off the water, and you can tie it around your waist if you get hot. Try a bamboo sweatshirt for men if you want a soft, plain model.

Long sleeves against chill and mosquitoes

Long sleeves cover your arms when the air turns damp and mosquitoes appear near the water. A long sleeve T-shirt works alone if the evening stays mild and as a base layer if it does not. You can see more among the long sleeve models, which suit both day and night.

Airing out before washing

Hang smoky clothes outside overnight so much of the smell drifts off in the fresh air. After that you can wash them following the care label, usually at a low temperature. Do not put smoky pieces in the wardrobe next to clean clothes, so the smell does not travel.

Feet and socks in the grass

The grass gets damp quickly once the sun is gone, and wet feet make the whole evening feel cooler. Bring an extra pair of socks to change into if yours get wet in the long grass. Dry your feet before putting on a dry pair, and you will feel good all the way home.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear my best clothes to a bonfire?

You can, but remember that smoke settles in and sparks can make small holes. It is better to wear clothes you are happy to air out and wash afterwards.

How do I get the smoke smell out of clothes?

Hang the clothes outside overnight so the air takes most of it. Then wash them following the care label. If they still smell, air them once more before you put them away.

How many layers do I need on Midsummer Eve?

Two or three layers are usually enough: a T-shirt next to the body, a sweatshirt on top and perhaps a jacket you already own. That way you can adjust as the temperature changes.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.