Updated 7/14/2024
Here are the top 9 summer fabrics to choose from.
With the scorching heat and humid weather, finding ways to stay cool becomes a top priority. Finding the right fabric and clothing is a great way to beat the heat.
The best summer fabrics not only help you beat the heat but also add a touch of style and elegance to your wardrobe. From lightweight linens to breathable cottons, these materials are designed to keep you fresh and look great. We’ll explore the top summer fabrics that combine functionality with fashion. This way, you remain effortlessly chic all season long.
What to Look for in Your Summer Wardrobe
When selecting summer fashion, there are several key factors to consider. Below, we will review the top qualities to look out for. Before you make your next wardrobe purchase, consider what type of clothing your lifestyle requires. Dresses that can take on the subway heat and then air conditioning? Suits that can withstand a long summer day at the conference?
Let’s take a look at some qualities to prioritize for:
- Breathability. Breathable material allows air to flow freely. By allowing air to flow, a breathable option prevents excessive sweating and discomfort.
- Moisture-wicking. Look for fabric that efficiently absorbs and removes moisture. You’ll be thankful as your skin stays cool and dry throughout the day!
- Lightweight. Through touch, you can feel a fabric’s weight. In the summer months, choose lighter fabrics that don’t trap heat or weight you down.
- Flexibility. Depending on your activity, stretchy material provides you ease of movement (and nicer fit).
- Durability. Due to sweat, you are more likely to wash after each wear. Better quality fabric costs more but withstand frequent wear and washing.
Keep these benefits in mind so you can choose the perfect choice for summer. Discover some of the most popular light materials for warmer weather below. Choose a comfortable fabric in light colors are also a good choice. (Darker colors absorb heat, which only contribute to any uncomfortable feeling.)
Make room for your summer wardrobe with Hallak’s clothing storage options. Schedule your pick-up today.
Choice for Summer Clothing: Hot Months Top Popular Fabrics
Time to embrace lightweight, breathable fabrics. New York City summers call for fashion that looks good and keeps you cool. Choosing the right fabric can actually lower your body heat and skin drier. (And no sweat stains!) Here are some fabrics to help you survive the hot weather.
Linen: A natural fabric made from flax plants. Its loose weave allows for excellent air circulation. Linen clothing benefits include breathable qualities and moisture-wicking properties. Time only enhances its charm. It’s no surprise linen fabrics are a timeless summer choice.
Cotton: Cotton fabric is a natural summer favorite. Lightweight and soft, air flows freely. It also has amazing absorption (and quick drying) properties. Perfect for those sweaty days! Cotton garments are always a go-to. They are great for everyday wear!
Chambray: Love denim? Then, you’ll love its summer cousin – chambray. A soft, breathable, lightweight fabric. Typically, it’s made of cotton and has a plain weave.Great fabric for summer dress, shirt, or shorts. So swap those denim shorts for something cooler!
Seersucker: Class, puckered fabric that screams “summer fashion”! The texture means built-in ventilation. It leaves some room between your body and clothing. Great for summer suits and dresses. See why seersucker is a summer wardrobe staple now?
Rayon: Semi-synthetic fabric with a silk-like appearance and smooth texture. Made from wood pulp and natural cellulose plant fibers. Fashion enthusiasts love its moisture absorption and breathable properties. Especially great for people with sensitive skin. Its gentle feel reduces irritation.
Tencel: Eco-friendly and made from eucalyptus tree natural fibres. Tencel provides a smooth, cool touch. Highly absorbent, it’s a good go-to choose for summer activewear such as bike shorts. You’ll be cool, dry, and comfortable all day long. Making it an excellent choice for casual wear and more.
Silk: For centuries, silk has held top spot for luxury fabrics. What to expect from this ideal fabric? Unparalleled softness, lux appearance, and timeless appeal. Its natural fibers allow air circulation and overall temperature-regulating properties. Pretty amazing, right? Silk keeps you cool in the heat – and cozy in your AC office. Worth every penny!
Nylon: Durable and lightweight, this man-made fabric is a staple in the fashion industry. Originally developed as a silk substitute, nylon offers moisture-wicking properties. Moisture is drawn away from your body. Perspiration evaporates quickly – and you are left feeling dry and cool.
Micro modal (or a modal blend): Made from sustainably harvested beechwood, micro modal is a highly coveted fabric. Its fine fibers create a lightweight, breathable fabric perfect for humid days. And it also absorbs and draws moisture away from the body. Durable and fade-resistant, you can see why it’s a top choice among luxury fashion designers. Fabric technology at its best!
Bamboo: Another eco-friendly popular choice, this natural fabric boasts exceptionable breathability. (It’s why bamboo fabric is often found in bed sheets too.) With natural moisture-wicking management, the airy texture keeps you feeling fresh.
And that’s only a basic breakdown. You can pick a cotton blend, linen blends, and more. Experiment to find your perfect blend for the warmest summer months.
Keeping Your Summer Wardrobe Fresh
When it comes to keeping your summer fabrics clean, dry cleaning is a must. Again, it’s why you should choose warm weather garments that comes in a more durable fabric. You don’t want to skimp on your clothing care. Body odor and summer sweats can wreak havoc on your clothing.
Dry cleaning offers a gentle and effective solution for keeping summer fabrics fresh. Unlike home washing, professional cleaners use solvents that clean without causing damage. One of the main advantages of dry cleaning is that it removes dirt and odor while preserving the fabric’s natural properties.
Additionally, dry cleaning helps to prevent shrinking, fading, and wrinkling. (And we know you have run into this issue in the past. We may have even already seen some of you with your home washing ‘oops’.) Our dry cleaning experts are trained in handling all different types of fabrics. With a keep attention to detail, you are guaranteed proper care for even your most delicate items.
Investing in dry cleaning for your summer fabrics not only keeps them clean, but it also extends their lifespan. Leave your garment care to the professionals. So you can enjoy wearing them for many summers to come while avoiding the wear and tear that comes with regular washing.
How Your Lifestyle Affects Your Fashion
In the more extreme months, it is especially important to consider your lifestyle’s needs and how it relates to your wardrobe. From outdoor activities to long work days, we got you covered.
Climate and Weather Conditions
Your local climate play a significant role in determining the most suitable summer fabrics. New York and New Jersey are known for waves of hot and humid weather. You are going to want fabrics that offer maximum breathability and moisture absorption. Quick-drying fabrics that wick away moisture from your body are even better!
Personal Comfort and Skin Sensitivity
Sensitive skin? Everyone’s skin reacts differently to each individual fabric. Some fabrics are rougher to the touch and may cause skin irritations. Then, you add perspiration and heat. Even softer fabric can cause irritation. If you are particularly sensitive, choose natural fibers that have hypoallergenic properties. There are also more modern synthetic fabrics that are gentle options. Always test fabrics, if possible, to ensure they provide the comfort you need for all-day wear.
Activity Level and Lifestyle
Spend a lot of time outdoors or exercising? Active individuals need fabrics with superior moisture-wicking properties and durability. These garments are going to be washed a lot. Choose fabrics that also help with regulating your body temperature. Warm-weather activities call for specific garments just as much as colder months do.
Style Preferences and Trends
Fashion is an expression of personal style, and your fabric choices should align with your aesthetic preferences. Stay informed about current fashion trends to select fabrics that are not only functional but also stylish. Lightweight, flowy silhouettes are always in vogue for summer dresses. Consider how different fabrics drape and their versatility in creating various summer looks.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
Environmental impact and sustainability of fabrics are increasingly important considerations. Opting for eco-friendly material helps reduce your carbon footprint. Sustainable choices contribute to the health of the planet. They also often result in higher-quality, longer-lasting garments. Win-win!
Explore the Different Summer Fabrics
Now that you know what fabrics to look out for, purchase a few different items in them. You may find that you prefer a few compared to others. While we have run down each summer fabric’s benefits, it really comes down to how comfortable you are. Does this fabric meet your body’s (and wardrobe’s) unique needs?
Summer Fashion Shopping Tips
Shopping for summer fabrics involves more than a feeling the material and checking the price tag.
- Start with reading a fashion item’s fabric label. They provide essential information about a garment’s fabric, care instructions, and more. If you are leaning towards mostly home washing, you should be come well-versed in care labels and symbols. And if it states, “Dry Cleaning Only”, please try to fight the urge to throw in the machine. You’ll thank us later for it.
- Question about a garment’s blend and its properties? Don’t hesitate to ask your stylist or store representative questions about an item’s performance and care. We always encourage our customers to reach out us with any care questions as well.
- When possible, invest in higher quality fabrics. In the long run, they will save you money as you won’t be replacing clothing as much. Look for reputable stores and brands known for their environmental impact and quality.
By paying attention to these details, you can build a summer wardrobe that meets your personal preference and looks great!
Summer Fashion Dry Cleaning & Wash-and-Fold
Between our dry cleaning and wash-and-fold services , your entire warm weather wardrobe is in the very best of hands. In the warmer months, perspiration, lotions, and other extra outside factors can wreak havoc on light and airy favorites. Schedule your pick-up in advance so stains don’t stand a chance.
Both Hallak locations are open Monday through Friday 8am – 6pm and Saturdays 8am –4pm.
Complimentary pick-up and delivery available.
Call (212) 832-0750 or email info@hallak.com today.
