In our previous blog post, we discussed how to choose summer dresses based on your body type. If you missed it, you can read it HERE.
Here, we'll discuss a factor that's just as important - the fabric. While the colors, patterns, and types of dress are the "looking-good" parts of styling, fabric selection is the "feeling-good" part.
Even the most flattering outfit can feel uncomfortable if the material isn't appropriate - especially if you're out in the heat for 10 - 12 hours. So let's understand how to choose the best fabric for your summer dresses before you head out for your next summer shopping trip.
What You Will Learn About Summer Dress Fabrics
- What to look for when choosing summer dress fabrics
- Best fabrics for summer dresses
- Fabrics to avoid in summer dresses
- Other factors to keep in mind
- FAQs
- Summary
What To Look for When Choosing Sundresses Fabric
Before adding a cute summer dress to your wardrobe, make sure to check these key fabric features:
1. Cooling effect:
Summer fabrics should help your body remain cool by not trapping heat.
2. Breathable:
A breathable fabric allows air to flow freely, maintaining low skin temperature.
- Most natural fibers such as cotton and linen are breathable.
- The weave is critical too: A tightly woven natural fabric can be less breathable than a loosely woven synthetic fabric.
- For maximum breathability, choose fabrics with loose weaves and fine natural fibers.
3. Moisture Absorption:
Fabrics with moisture-absorbing or moisture-wicking properties help your body regulate temperature and make you comfortable.
4. Lightweight:
Lightweight fabrics generally feel less restrictive. They tend to feel more comfortable and can be worn for longer summer days or vacations.
Top Fabric:
Cotton
Cotton is one of the first fabrics we think about when choosing materials for dresses. It's versatile - it comes in different weights, blends, and colors and is easy to stitch, making it a popular choice for everyday wear and vacation outfits.
Cotton has natural properties such as being breathable, lightweight, and soft which makes it suitable for hot summer weather.
Why Choose Cotton?
- Naturally breathable for superior airflow
- Lightweight and soft, ideal for sensitive skin
- Hypoallergenic, reducing irritation risks
- Perfect for travel-friendly styles
Linen
Linen is another top option for sundress fabric. It is made from flax fibers which is an expensive process, but it allows high airflow due to loose weaves, making it perfect for hot and humid weather. Compared to cotton, it is more durable and has a natural, effortlessly elegant look that's ideal for chic vacation vibes.
Why Choose Linen?
- Highly breathable with a loose weave
- Lightweight and moisture-absorbent
- Durable fabric
- Perfect for chic, vacation-ready vibes
Rayon
Rayon is a semi-synthetic fabric made from natural cellulose blended with cotton. Its smooth and flowy texture feels similar to silk but is less expensive and easier to take care of. Thin threading makes it extremely breathable and cool. It's a great pick for elegant, flowy summer dresses. However, it doesn't absorb sweat as effectively, so it may not be the best choice for extremely humid environments.
Why Choose Rayon?
- Soft and silky feel at an affordable price
- Breathable and lightweight for air comfort
- Drapes well, ideal for flowy, elegant styles
Bamboo
Bamboo fabric is incredibly soft, and very breathable compared to cotton. Additionally, Bamboo wicks moisture away rather than absorbing it, making it great for styling in high temperatures. It is a sustainable option, though it is more expensive than cotton.
Why Choose Bamboo?
- Ultra-soft and breathable
- Wicks moisture away, keeping skin dry
- Naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic
- Sustainable choice for summer dressing
Fabric to Avoid
Some fabrics may look good, but they will make you feel sticky, sweaty, and uncomfortable in hot weather. Here are the ones to avoid when shopping for summer dresses.
1. Polyester, Nylon & Acrylic:
These synthetic fabrics are generally not breathable and trap heat. So, they can be highly uncomfortable and tend to cause sweating and irritation.
2. Spandex or tight-fitting fabric:
Any fabric that hugs the skin tightly - especially spandex and nylon should be avoided as they make the skin sweat more and may cause skin issues.
3. Leather, Wool, Denim:
Tight woven fabric or heavy (high GSM) fabric like leather, wool, or heavy denim are thick, less breathable, and retain heat and hence are not recommended for warm temperatures.
P.S.: Cotton-blend or linen-blend fabrics also can be great affordable options in summer for many as they maintain breathability, lightness of natural fabric while bringing durability, wrinkle-resistance, and low cost. However, it should be kept in mind that some fast-fashion brands nowadays use low-quality blends with a smaller amount of cotton-to-polyester or linen-to-polyester ratio. These types of cheap blends may not provide the benefits mentioned earlier and may even cause discomfort and irritation, and should be avoided.
Other Factors to Keep in Mind While Selecting a Summer Dress
- Colors: Darker colors absorb more heat compared to the lighter ones. Choose lighter colors like white, beige, or pastels for a warm environment.
- Weave: A loose weave allows air to flow freely, helping your skin breathe.
- Synthetic or natural: Generally, natural fibers are more suitable than synthetic ones for warmer temperatures.
- Fitting: Tightly hugging fits should be avoided. Loose-fitting allows appropriate airflow, making it comfortable.
- Occasion/Location: If you're going to an indoor or air-conditioned event, wearing synthetic fabric outfits might still be okay. But for outdoor events, natural lightweight fabrics are appropriate.
FAQ
Q: What's the best fabric for summer dresses/outfits?
A: The best fabrics for summer clothing are cotton, linen, Rayon, and Bamboo.
Q: What fabric not to wear in summer?
A: In summer, fabrics such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, denim, spandex, wool, and satin should not be worn.
Q: Are linen dresses good for summer?
A: Yes. Linen dresses are perfect for summer due to their high breathability, lightweight, and loose weave.
Q: Are cotton dresses good for summer?
A: Yes. Cotton dresses are the most common for summer as they have high moisture-absorption, lightweight, and versatile.
Q: How to dress in hot, humid weather?
A: Wear natural, loose-woven fabric dresses in lighter colors, loose fitting for hot and humid weather.
Q: What is the best color to wear in hot weather?
A: For hot weather, lighter colors are great - white being the best one.
Summary
The fabric of summer dresses isn't just about style, it's about how you feel throughout the day. Even the most flattering dress can fall short if you feel hot, sweaty, irritated, or uncomfortable in it. By choosing the right fabric, which is breathable, lightweight, and suited to your needs, you can step out feeling cool, confident, and comfortable.
Now that you know how to shop for summer dresses suited to your body type and environment, you're already a step ahead.
We'll be sharing even more tips to take your summer style from good to great - so don't miss out. Sign up for our bi-weekly newsletter✉️ below to get the latest style guides to shop with confidence.
Meanwhile, you can look through our colorful collection of cotton and cotton-blend dresses for next vacation.
