Summer is nearly upon us, and we can’t wait to feel the warmth of the sun again finally! It’s been a long winter, and spring shows us the potential for what’s to come this summer. With this comes the need to swap out your wardrobe for summer-appropriate pieces, but this comes with challenges. If you are someone who adopts modesty in fashion, setting the standards before summer is the best way to find your staple outfits. But, with temperatures reaching all-time highs, how can you dress modestly whilst also battling the heat? Well, we have the answer for you. Read more to see our best guide on dressing modestly in the summer heat.
Think loose clothing
Tight clothing will trap heat and sweat, and loose clothing will give you the leg room for air to flow. It’s quite simple really. So, think oversized shirts, wide-leg trousers, and flowy dresses to give your body room to breathe while keeping things covered. You’ll feel cooler with airflow moving freely through your clothing and look effortlessly put together.
Another tip? Stick to styles that have built-in airflow, like kaftans and wrap dresses. Pieces with side slits, bell sleeves, or peasant-style blouses create movement and space around your body. Movement equals ventilation, which makes a huge difference on the hottest days. Focus on clothing that hangs away from your skin rather than clinging tightly to it.
Pick your perfect silhouette
People make the mistake of thinking modesty means sacrificing a beautiful silhouette. The opposite is true. Your silhouette can make or break a gorgeous modest look, and finding the right structured pieces that drop in a way best suited for your body is key. Go for structured, relaxed silhouettes that give dimension without clinging to your body. Think A-line dresses, boxy tops, and wide, belted trousers. Clean lines keep it chic.
Experiment with different style combinations and see which looks best for your summer uniform. Maybe a midi skirt with some tights tucked into a ruffled blouse is your go to, or go for a linen shirt dress, with a colorful scarf around the waist. Make sure there is harmony between the top and the bottom, so dob’t go too heavy with your top appearance if your bottom is the main star of the look. This will keep you feeling light, yet covered.
Fabrics are everything
Anything synthetic (aka polyester) is where many go wrong. Polyester for example traps heat, and unfortunately many of the clothing pieces available today are made with this material. Be more international with your modest clothing shopping. Natural, breathable fabrics are your best friend. Cotton, linen, and bamboo are lightweight and help with airflow.
Also, don’t overlook muslin or seersucker. These fabrics are naturally puckered or textured, which keeps them slightly lifted off the skin and promotes even more airflow. Blended fabrics like cotton-linen mixes can also offer structure with breathability, giving you more options while shopping.
Choose your colours wisely
Dark colours are heat absorbent, so that favourite black abaya may need to be put in the winter pie until the weather starts to cool down again. Light colours reflect the sun, preventing any overheating. Go for a crisp white colour, or get into the summer spirit with gorgeous pastel shades.
We also love a soft hue for a summer look. Think colours that reflect the flowers of the season, so blush pink, lavender and baby blue, creating the most stunning synergy between your outfit and the weather. Keep any printed colours to the lighter side, so a leopard print in a beige and brown colour tone. Keep the pattern subtle and easy on the eyes, and steal the show with a gorgeous head scarf.
Thin layers for styling and coverage
Layering in the summer? Yes, but strategically. Think lightweight cardigans, airy kimonos, and sheer scarves to add a pop of colour to a plain look. You get modest coverage without sweating through your clothes.
Focus on materials like chiffon, voile, and open-weave knits for your layering pieces. These fabrics are breathable enough to add coverage without insulating too much heat. Longline vests and sleeveless jackets are another great option to add dimension without trapping warmth.
Long and breathable
Be sure to not shy away from longer pieces, even when summer is at its peak. Maxi dresses and skirts in breathable, natural fabrics can feel cooler than shorts. They protect your skin from the sun using your clothing (and some SPF of course) and let air circulate better than you’d expect.
If you’re outdoors a lot, long clothing can even protect you from sunburn, saving your skin and keeping you more comfortable. Look for designs with tiered skirts, light pleating, or open-back detailing (layered modestly) to add even more airflow to your look.
Bottom line
Dressing modestly in the summer doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right fabrics, silhouettes, and smart styling, you can stay cool and stay true to your style. Beat the heat without compromising your fashion standards, and look great doing it.
