Temperature shifts (especially above 80 degrees Fahrenheit) always bring to the fashion forefront colorful outfits and lightweight, breathable fabrics to withstand the heat. So when it comes to finding the proper garments for warmer weather, the right fabric can make or break down your plans, especially when it's searing hot outside.
While white tank tops may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of ubiquitous spring/summer wardrobe pieces, there are other cooling fabrics you can embrace during humid, hot weather. Shop TODAY talked to experts to spill the must-have textiles and material combinations that will keep you dry and avoid breaking out into a sweat the moment you step outside of your home.
What are the best fabrics to wear during warm temperatures?
According to Billy Draddy, EVP and creative director of Summit Golf Brands, one of the best options to wear in hot temperatures — regardless of material — is a light-colored fabric. "Dark colors absorb light from the sun and the heat that comes along with it."
Material-wise, a man-made fiber like nylon will keep you feeling pleasant. "Cotton will keep you cooler but once you start sweating, whether it be working out or while out in extremely warm temperatures, fabrics made out of man-made fibers will keep you more comfortable," he adds. "These fabrics are also hydrophobic so they don’t absorb your sweat."
Also, if you can keep a dry fabric up against your skin, you'll inevitably remain cooler. "Water is a conductor of temperature and just like when you jump in the pool at the end of the summer and you feel the cool breeze up against your skin, the same thing happens in reverse with the heat," Draddy mentions. "If you have a wet shirt on and high, high temperatures, you will feel even hotter than the outside temperature."
Fabrics pros and cons
As a fashion expert and designer, Suzanne Vinnik breaks down the pros and cons of the most ubiquitous materials on the market.
- Rayon: "It has a great drape and dries quickly. It is moderately breathable and has a silky texture which doesn’t cause you to sweat, but it wicks no moisture and requires dry cleaning."
- Linen: "[Linen] allows great airflow and is an anti-microbial textile as silica is anti-fungal and anti-microbial so it won’t smell even though it does absorb moisture. It is very breathable due to the open weaves, but I’m not a fan personally due to wrinkles and the time it takes to dry especially in humid weather."
- Cotton: "This is one of the most breathable, comfortable and easiest to care for textiles! It is also great for sensitive skin. As there is no added cost with dry cleaning or hand-washing, it is very durable and soft, but if you are someone who sweats profusely, beware as it absorbs moisture instead of wicking away from the skin. If you are someone who sweats less when you are cool, it’s a fantastic option."
- Silk: "[Silk] is lightweight and breathable. A lot of luxury brands use it because it doesn’t insulate trapping heat and feels great against the skin. I like to use it for layering on exceptionally hot days, but the drawback is that it can retain odor and requires hand-washing as putting it in the washing machine will ruin the fabric in nearly all cases. It is also not friendly when it comes to sweat, making it very visible."
- Modal: "Modal is a type of rayon made from wood pulp from beech trees. It is far more absorbent than cotton and allows perspiration to wick away from the skin. You will never feel hot and sticky in it, which is why you see a lot of brands using it over cotton, which is 50% less absorbent."
- Merino wool: "[It's] not my choice ever as it is extremely itchy against my sensitive skin, even in higher quality weaves. It is used often in summer clothing as it is extremely breathable, wicks moisture and doesn’t smell bad. When caring for it, you’ll want to hand-wash and lay it flat to dry so it doesn’t begin to lose its shape, which is a drawback."
- Chambray: "This is one I want to love more than I actually do because it is a tight cotton weave that absorbs sweat but is still breathable with the look of light denim. On a summer dress or shirt, it can look very chic depending on the design of the garment. If you are someone looking for great breathability, it is a great option, but you will want to look at the garment construction if you hate wrinkles."
- Polyester: "If you are in a dry heat in particular, it is used in a lot of activewear as it is light, water-repellent and allows moisture to wick from the skin rather than soaking into the fabric. The drawbacks are that it is non-absorbent and can also grow bacteria, which smells even after washing. I’m very conscious of the ways I’m using polyester as it doesn’t break down the way natural fibers do and can cause issues."
- Nylon: "We see it a lot in activewear because it is a wicking fabric that dries quickly. Depending on the blend, it can be breathable but is one of the smellier fabrics as it holds in odors."
Other features to look for in warm weather clothing
One factor to keep in mind is the fabric's texture. "Think about if you were going to warm up something with your hand. You wouldn’t just put your fingertips down; you would put the full surface area of your hand down on what you were trying to warm," says Draddy. "So, the opposite is true when you’re trying to stay cool. The less surface area that's hitting your skin, the cooler you will feel. Textured knits, although indeterminable to the naked eye, have less of the fabric sitting up against your skin and therefore, will keep you cooler."
The silhouette of a piece also plays an element in the fabric's comfort. "The best thing you can do to keep cool is to find clothes that are cut away from the body, especially when dealing with humidity," mentions Vinnik. When it comes to her designs, she focuses on varying lengths that cut away from the body and hemlines that create ventilation.
"During the summertime, you’ll find a lot of loose dolman sleeve capes and tops, kaftans and summer dresses that are not clingy to the body," she adds.
Best breathable tops
Easy breezy: Uniqlo Crew Neck T-Shirt
- Material is sturdy
- Very white
- Heavy weight
Size: XXS-XXL | Colors: 10 | Material: 100% cotton
Short sleeves are a must-have piece in your closet during elevated temperatures. This Uniqlo tee features a sturdy material that dries up quick and feels ultra soft during warm days. I tested last year and enjoy the simplicity of this white T-shirt which looks flattering on most body frames. It's one of those affordable pieces that feel ultra luxe when paired with a classic garment.
Cool button-down: Uniqlo Linen Blend Open Collar Shirt
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Wrinkles easily
Size: XXS-XXL | Colors: 10 | Material: 62% rayon, 33% linen, 5% nylon
Associate editor Shannon Garlin loves this shirt for hot weather for its breathable construction. “I have this shirt in both white and black, and it's my go-to top for hot summer days, whether I'm in the office or meeting up with friends for brunch. I like that it's loose-fitting and lightweight, and you can really style it with different bottoms. I've worn it with jean shorts and then nicer trousers to work," she says.
Ready to sweat: Buck Mason Surplus Rib Tank
- Very breathable
- Fitted construction
- Need a strapless bra
Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 8 | Material: 90% cotton, 10% spandex
Buck Mason's tanks are must-have essentials in my summer wardrobe. They're extremely comfortable, breathable and a great basic to build up an outfit. These tanks have a slim fit silhouette plus a hidden thread chain where you can snap your bra straps. Now, that's a game-changer for me.
Soft mood: Skims Boyfriend T-Shirt
- Feels buttery soft
- A bit oversized
Size: XXS-4X | Colors: 7 | Materials: 47% cotton, 48% modal, 5% spandex
If you’re planning outdoor activities, this tee will keep you dry and ready to move around in the heat. The top is made with a cotton/modal blend that feels soft and offers a flattering fit. Whether you wear it for lounging or working out, it provides enough breathing room to move around.
Effortlessly chic:525 America Demi High Crewneck Cotton Tank
- Made from 100% cotton
- Variety of color options
- Length hits right above waist
Size: XS-XL | Colors: 15 | Materials: 100% cotton
One thing I won’t compromise during summer is comfort. The piece comes in 15 different neutral hues and bright colors, and it's made from 100% cotton that feels soft and relaxed. While the top has a short length, this one pairs perfectly with high-waisted pants or jeans.
Overprotection: Solbari Short Sleeve Polo Shirt UPF50+ Sensitive Collection
- Has UPF 50+
- It's quite fitting
Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 5 | Materials: 50% viscose from bamboo, 41% cotton, 9% elastane
Get maximum sun protection with this polo shirt that offers UPF 50+ protection and a sensitive fabric composition. The mix of cotton and viscose provides a gentle feel that people with sensitive skin will appreciate.
Best breathable bottoms
Anti-chafing: Quince 100% European Linen Shorts
- Quality is great
- Run a bit short
Size: XS-XL | Colors: 7 | Material: 100% European flax
With a laidback aesthetic and comfortable fit, these linen shorts are a wardrobe staple to keep available at all times. The shorts are made from 100% European flax and breathable fabric that is heat-regulating and soft. Also, it features side pockets and a drawstring for easy adjustment.
Denim calls: Levi's High Rise Baggy Shorts
- Baggy style is comfortable
- Longer length
- Reviews suggest sizing up
Size: 23-34 | Colors: 9 | Materials: 95% cotton, 5% recycled cotton
I recently got this pair from Levi's and it is definitely becoming my favorite for summer. Since I tend to chafe, I barely wear shorts. However, this design features a longer inseam that feels comfortable and doesn't rub my skin. I have paired it with tank tops and button-down shirts for an elevated look. It's also lightweight and has more of a loose silhouette for easy styling.
Neutral upgrade: Buffalo Adelina Linen Blend Wide-Leg Pants
- Comfortable with polished look
- Can be worn from day to night
- Lightly pleated in the back
Size: 24-34 | Colors: 2 | Materials: 55% linen, 45% viscose
While shorts are a go-to for steamy days, these long pants will keep you fresh during the heat. The design feels more elevated and functional when you need something comfortable for the office or a night out. It comes in two neutral hues and features belt loops. I usually wear these with a vest or button-down shirt when going to work.
Whether you wear them at the beach or for lounging, the pants' baggy silhouette will feel airy and breathable throughout the day.
Refreshing look: Eddie Bauer Women's Departure Amphib Shorts
- Material feels soft
- Dry quickly
- Wash with like colors
Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 5 | Materials: 86% polyester, 14% spandex
If you're going to be out in the sun for a long period of time, these shorts are perfect to protect your skin. These are made from a FreeDry technology that is moisture-wicking and features UPF 50+ sun protection. The material is lightweight and easy to pull on for added comfort. Also, it comes in four different colors for an added pop of color.
Everyday use: Patagonia Women’s Baggies Shorts
- Moisture-wicking
- Multiple colors
- Tends to ride up
Size: XXS-XXL | Colors: 11 | Material: 100% nylon
If you’re looking for a soft alternative to denim shorts, opt for this lightweight pair. Associate editor Sierra Hoeger says she loves them because they're great for travel and are super flattering.
“I live in these shorts in the summertime. It helps that they come in a wide variety of patterns and colors, so then I can wear them multiple days in a row. I first wore them when kayaking back home and they got a little wet, only to dry off within minutes thanks to the nylon fabric they’re made out of,” she says.
Casual fits: Lululemon Softstreme High-Rise Short 4"
- Fabric feels soft
- Material tends to ride up
Size: 0-20 | Colors: 7 | Materials: 53% recycled polyester, 38% Lenzing® modal, 9% elastane
This style is designed for ladies on the move. The shorts are made from a Softstreme fabric technology that features a smooth "peach-fuzz" texture. Plus, the four-way stretch will give you that extra flexibility while still adjusting the shorts with its shock-cord string. It also comes with pockets for accessible storage and comfort.
Making space: Everlane The Everywhere Pant in Stretch Linen
- Lightweight
- Feels breathable
- They wrinkle easy
Size: 00-16 | Colors: 4 | Materials: 55% European flax linen, 43% viscose, 2% elastane
Production associate Audrey Ekman says these linen pants are a must-have for warmer weather because of their breathable, loose and flattering fit. "The barrel silhouette might not be for everyone, but I really like having some extra room in the leg and still being able to show off my footwear (I'm also a fan of the brand's Way High Barrel Jeans, which have a similar shape). These are easy to wear anywhere, from work to errands, and I can even see myself wearing them to the beach this summer!," says Ekman.
Best breathable dresses
Wear anywhere: KuaCua Women's Tennis Dress
- Has built-in shorts
- Can ride up when walking
Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 25 | Materials: 75% nylon, 25% spandex
Look chic while stretching on the mat with this flexible exercise dress. This style features a removable bra and compressive shorts with pockets that are snug to your body and offer support. Despite the short length, this dress will give you coverage while working out. The slim fit and stretchy material is moisture-wicking and will keep you dry while working out.
Stay dry: Lightbare 3/4 Sleeve Dress
- UPF protection
- Moisture-wicking
- Can run short
Sizes: S-3XL | Colors: 20 | Material: 87% polyester, 13% spandex
A bold print is great for warmer days and this one is designed with a combination of UPF 50+ and moisture-wicking fabric, which experts recommend. The design comes in multiple colors and can be easily worn from day to night.
Fitted comfort: Lulus Decidedly Summery Ivory Cutout Sleeveless O-Ring Mini Dress
- Trendy and unique look
- Reviews say cut is flattering
- Must wear adhesive or no bra
Size: XXS-XL | Colors: 1 | Materials: 83% cotton, 10% nylon, 7% spandex
If you're looking for something sophisticated yet casual, this dress is the one. I recently got this and it is on my packing list for my upcoming tropical vacation. At first, the dress looks like it will be uncomfortable — but once on, it feels breathable and lightweight. The rings aren't heavy and the lining hits around for coverage.
Loose errands: Athleta Essential Tee Dress
- Feels lightweight
- Can be a bit short
Size: XXS-XL | Colors: 3 | Material: 90% cotton, 10% elastane
Get all-day comfort with this T-shirt dress that features short sleeves and a high neckline. It's the perfect option for a last-minute, one-and-done outfit and pairs well with cowboy boots, white sneakers or sandals.
Cool all day: Tommy John 360 Movement Dress
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Versatile style
- Limited color options
Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 2 | Materials: 88% polyester, 12% elastane
Whether you’re playing tennis or running errands, this exercise dress is flexible and ideal for low-impact activities. It features all the necessary components to survive the heat including moisture-wicking properties, a built-in biker short for comfort and a ball pocket to store supplies for pickleball or other sports.
Long essential: Buck Mason Surplus Rib Tank Dress
- Fabric is thick, not sheer
- Reviewers love the way it fits
- Pricier option
Size: XS-XXL | Colors: 4 | Materials: 90% cotton, 10% spandex
This tank dress is my go-to for last-minute changes. I opt for this design whenever I need to run to the market, a meeting or to the office; it's an easy throw-on dress. It has a flattering fit, feels comfortable and doesn't constrict the body. Plus, the cotton material feels smooth and perfect for days when you know sweat is underway.
How we chose
We selected items based on affordability and material composition while considering expert tips and recommendations. We also chose items that are highly rated, breathable and easy to care for. Additionally, we asked Shop TODAY editors for their favorite clothes for warm weather.
Meet the experts
- Jaime King is the professional fashion designer and SVP of Design for Maurices, a brand offering women's fashion at an affordable price.
- Billy Draddy is the EVP and creative director of Summit Golf Brands. Previously, Billy designed for iconic American brands such as Timberland, Hickey Freeman and Polo Ralph Lauren.
- Suzanne Vinnik is a fashion designer and CEO of her eponymous brand, byVINNIK. She has worked with television and Broadway stars while changing the narrative around the lack of inclusivity surrounding luxury fashion.
- Whitney Keeffe is a former operations manager for Stitch Fix.
