No matter where you live, you’re probably battling some heat right about now. You’re probably also wondering how the hell you’re going to look put-together and stylish in this type of weather. Don’t worry though, we’re here to help! We’ve got a batch of easy tips that are not only going to have you looking cool, but staying cool as well.
Lightweight Fabrics
Start by opting for breathable, lightweight fabrics like cotton (for chinos, t-shirts, and polos) and linen and linen blends (for suits, shirting, and shorts) for hot weather dressing. One warning though, we don’t usually recommend most linen pants as they’re often too thin and sheer (yikes!).
Keep It Covered
A lightweight straw hat is a great way to keep the sun and heat off and give your head and face some protection. Don’t forget to check out my summer essentials e-book for more on what styles we think are best!
Light Colors
As you can probably imagine, dark colors are going to absorb the heat and sun and make you hot, so we highly recommend going with light colors like tan, white, light grey, and pastels if you’re looking for a pop of color. For more color tips, check out our color guide for details.
Breathable Footwear
Lightweight, low profile footwear is a stylish way to keep your cool in hot weather. I recommend canvas or fabric slip-ons like Toms or Soludos and loafers like driving mocs or boat shoes as casual and dressier options. Unless you’re at or going to some body of water, you can skip the sandals. Real talk, no one wants to see your toes, pedicure or not.
Lightweight Layers
Believe it or not, the right layers, like a linen shirt or polo w/ a linen or lightweight cotton jacket, will actually keep you cooler. There’s a reason nomadic Bedouins in desert countries wear light colors and layers, it actually traps cool air and lets it flow around you. Stylish Italians are also experts at utilizing this method of layering breathable fabrics to look put-together and stay comfortable.
Shorten Up
As I’ve shown you, there’s a right and wrong way to wear shorts, and as long as they fit properly, letting your legs breath can help keep you cool and have you looking casually stylish. One caveat though, shorts don’t transition well from day to night, so default to a lightweight pair of chinos if you’re needing to wear something for the whole day and on into the evening.
With the right choices, looking stylish and staying cool are both well within your reach this season, now don’t forget some sunscreen!
Here are some of my favorite picks for warm weather style; for more, make sure to check out the video!
Linen Shirts:
Polo Shirts:
Linen and Cotton Suits/Blazers:
Banana Republic Linen Suits/Blazers
Brooks Brothers Cotton Blazers
Linen and Cotton Blend Pants:
Bonobos Cotton and Linen Pants
Hats:
Slip-On Shoes:
Budget-Friendly Loafer Options
Budget-Friendly Shorts:
Banana Republic Stretch Shorts
Banana Republic Printed Shorts
Surf-Inspired Shorts:
Billabong, Hurley, Quiksilver Shorts
More Shorts:
Brooks Brothers Linen/Cotton Shorts
