Learn how to choose summer dresses to stay cool and comfortable to promote sweat evaporation and provide sun protection.
When the temperature rises, women should prudently choose summer dresses for utmost comfort. However, when dressing for a hot day, minimizing clothing isn’t the only consideration. During high temperatures, the body cools itself by sweating. As sweat evaporates, it takes body heat with it, which helps maintain comfort. Therefore, choosing clothing that facilitates sweat evaporation is crucial, says Guowen Song, director of the Lab for Heat and Thermal Protection Research at Iowa State University.
Song emphasizes the need to balance heat and moisture for comfort, explaining that different seasons necessitate different clothing to regulate heat dissipation. This principle is especially important during a heatwave.
Loose or Sweat-Wicking Clothes for Summer Dresses
Kimberly McMahon, who heads the National Weather Service’s Public Weather Services Program, advises against tight clothing, which traps sweat on the skin. Trapped sweat doesn’t evaporate, making it harder for the body to cool down. Instead, loose and flowy garments are better on hot days. However, technical fabrics used in athleisure are designed to wick sweat away, even in tighter fits. Look for garments labeled as “sweat-wicking,” “moisture-wicking,” or “quick dry” for better comfort.
Margaret Frey, a professor of fiber science and apparel design at Cornell University, notes that wearing as little clothing as possible isn’t always best. Some coverage prevents direct sun exposure on bare skin. Traditional dress in hot climates often includes full-body but loose-fitting robes, offering protection and breathability.
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Breathable Fabrics for Summer Dress
Frey recommends lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen for everyday summer wear. These materials allow breezes to pass through and facilitate sweat evaporation. To test fabric breathability, put your hand inside a garment, blow on it, and see if you can feel your breath on your hand.
For heavy sweating or exercise, Song suggests synthetic, moisture-wicking fabrics, which dry quickly and move moisture away from the body. Natural fibers like cotton and linen tend to absorb sweat, which can feel uncomfortable during intense activities.
Light Colors
Light-colored clothing is popular in the summer for a reason. Dark colors like black, navy, and forest green absorb more UV radiation, making them hotter than light colors. Experiments in Japan have shown that dark-colored shirts become significantly hotter than light-colored ones when left in the sun. Therefore, light-colored clothing is generally recommended.
However, some researchers argue that this isn’t always straightforward. For instance, the traditional black robes of Bedouin people in desert climates may absorb more heat, but that heat doesn’t necessarily reach the skin. Frey adds that while light-colored clothes are less effective at protecting against UV radiation, dark clothes offer better protection, potentially reducing the risk of sunburn. To compensate, use sunscreen and wash clothes regularly, as many detergents contain brightening agents that boost UV protection.
Functional Accessories
Consider strategic accessories from head to toe. A wide-brimmed hat provides extra shade, while open-toed shoes help with ventilation. Song also recommends sweat-wicking undergarments, which are in direct contact with the skin and significantly impact comfort.
Additional Tips and Practical Application
Dressing for hot weather involves more than just minimizing clothing. The key is to choose fabrics and styles that promote sweat evaporation and provide sun protection. Loose, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are great for casual wear, while moisture-wicking synthetics are better for exercise. Light-colored clothing helps keep you cool, but be mindful of the trade-off with UV protection. Accessories like hats and appropriate shoes can also enhance comfort.
Additionally, it’s essential to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade whenever possible. Drinking plenty of water helps maintain the body’s natural cooling process, while periodic rests in shaded or air-conditioned areas can prevent overheating.
Incorporating these tips can help manage heat effectively, ensuring comfort and protection during hot days. Dressing smartly in hot weather is not just about fashion; it’s about staying safe and comfortable.
Source:
Jamie Ducharme (May 28, 2024). What to Wear When It’s Really Hot Outside. Times. https://time.com/6981614/best-clothes-hot-weather/. Accessed June 1, 2024
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