Five tips for styling outfits during the hot weather season

The hot weather season is back again. Although Singapore has warm weather all year round, the months of June to September bring about the hottest season, which I and many others dread. 

Dressing for sweltering heat and humidity can be tough. Furthermore, ensuring that you’re dressed appropriately for work or school may limit your options even more. 

If you happen to be looking for tips on how to dress for hot weather, here’s a list of five tips that would keep you cool yet presentable.

Wearing light colours will keep you cool throughout the day. Light colours help reflect the sun’s rays, unlike dark colours which absorb it. 

The more heat the clothing absorbs, the hotter you will feel. On top of that, light-coloured clothing looks cooler.

Wearing light colours does not limit you to only wearing white. Lighter shades of cool colours like blue, green or purple work well too. You can also always spice up your outfits with accessories like jewellery and bags or coloured footwear. 

Sleeveless tops mean less material on your body, keeping you cooler. It also means that there is greater airflow. The constant air flow allows for hot air to escape easily.

Sleeveless clothing is also comfortable and not constricting. 

Sleeveless camis, off-shoulder or puff-sleeve blouses are great options. Short-sleeve button-ups or tank tops are also great. 

If you prefer to wear tops with sleeves, choose short and loose sleeves to allow as much airflow as possible. 

With hot weather, it is essential that you wear clothes that are made of breathable fabric. 

Opt for clothes made out of materials like linen, cotton, or silk. Synthetic fabrics should be avoided as they tend to trap heat and humidity which isn’t ideal. If possible, pick clothes that are thin or light. Thicker and heavier fabrics trap body heat making you warm. 

Cotton is known to be one of the most breathable fabrics. It is also an excellent choice for tops, bottoms, and outerwear. It is versatile enough to be worn during both day and night. 

Linen is also another great material to wear when the weather is hot.

Jeans in general are a bad choice for hot weather. However, stretch jeans or skinny jeans are the worst. Not only are they made out of thick fabrics, but the bottoms are very fitting, which constrains air movement, leaving minimal to no airflow. 

Wearing light clothes is also better when it is hot. Denim, however, is one of the heaviest fabrics. Heavy fabrics tend to weigh you down in the heat, making you feel more tired.

Instead of jeans, choose cotton or linen pants. These pants are not only fashionable but can also be work and school appropriate.

If wearing denim is a must, choose wide-leg jeans or denim shorts, which still allow for some air circulation.

Tight clothing is constraining. Not only does it leave minimal room for air circulation, but it also hugs your body making you feel uneasy. 

Combine tight clothing with hot weather, humidity and sweat, and you have the perfect recipe for ruining a good day.

Loose shirts, blouses and pants work great to tackle hot weather. If you are feeling fancier, dresses or skirts work amazingly well too. 

Besides, it is a trend to wear loose-fitting clothes. Not only is it better for you in hot weather, but it also looks flattering on almost everyone. 

In Singapore, hot weather and humidity is unavoidable. However, what you wear can make you feel more comfortable throughout the day. With these tips, your outfits will help you keep cool while staying in style.