The arrival of summer brings a unique challenge: what clothing is the most comfortable to wear? What types of fabric are best for a heatwave or an unpredictable day? To help you out, we’ve rounded up some popular summer fabrics. In this article, you’ll learn what makes each material so effective during the summer and where you can find them.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a type of grass. To turn it into fabric, bamboo stalks are crushed into a pulp. By adding chemicals, the fibers are spun into usable yarn (bamboo viscose).
Properties of Bamboo
Bamboo fabric feels incredibly soft on the skin. The fibers have tiny microscopic holes, making bamboo clothing extra breathable. It also wicks moisture efficiently, so you don’t have to worry about sweat marks. Bamboo is naturally hypoallergenic, making it a great option for men with sensitive skin. Since it doesn’t retain odors, you won’t have to deal with sweat smells even after wearing it all day. To maintain its quality, it’s best to follow the care instructions on the label and store it properly.
You can find this fabric in:
- Bamboo T-shirts
- Bamboo Boxers
- Bamboo Blazers
Chambray
Chambray is a fabric that closely resembles denim but is lighter in weight, more breathable, and more flexible. This material is perfect for a casual and contemporary look.
Chambray Properties
Chambray is made from cotton, with some garments enhanced with polyester and viscose. The result is a smooth fabric that feels soft to the touch and is ideal for men with sensitive skin. Additionally, it is a strong, durable material, giving chambray a long lifespan even with regular wear. While chambray comes in a variety of colors, shades of blue, such as indigo, are the most common. However, it’s worth noting that this fabric is prone to shrinking and wrinkling.
You can find this fabric in:
- Chambray shirts
- Chambray t-shirts
- Chambray pants
Cotton
Cotton is the most popular material for clothing, and for good reason. It’s easy to work with and care for.
Cotton Properties
Cotton is a natural material made from the soft fibers that grow around the seeds of the cotton plant. Cotton clothing feels soft on the skin and is breathable, making it a logical choice for summer. Additionally, it rarely causes allergic reactions. However, cotton plants require a lot of water to thrive, and combined with the use of harmful chemicals, this can have a negative environmental impact. Thankfully, there’s a growing selection of organic cotton available.
You can find this fabric in:
Linen
Linen is one of the oldest fabrics in the world and the king of summer materials. It is a natural fabric made from the fibers of the flax plant, which thrives almost anywhere.
Linen Properties
Linen allows air to circulate easily, keeping you comfortable even on the hottest days. This is why linen clothing is so popular for summer vacations and tropical regions. Additionally, it is a durable fabric that holds its shape. While linen is prone to wrinkling, this is part of its distinctive look. Growing flax requires significantly less water and fewer pesticides compared to cotton, making linen a more sustainable choice.
You can find this fabric in:
Piqué
Piqué is a fabric that’s famous and loved for its use in polo shirts. It has a slightly textured weave, giving the garment a sophisticated look.
Piqué Properties
Piqué is a weaving technique primarily using cotton, sometimes blended with polyester and stretch fibers. This strengthens the fabric or makes it more flexible. The tiny holes in the waffle-like texture make piqué garments extra breathable and lightweight. The fabric absorbs moisture quickly, making piqué clothing highly comfortable to wear. Moreover, it’s durable and retains its shape. Regularly ironing and steaming piqué will help maintain its polished appearance.
You can find this fabric in:
- Piqué polo shirts
- Piqué t-shirts
- Piqué dress shirts
Poplin
Poplin is a finely woven fabric, usually made from cotton or a cotton blend. It has a smooth texture and a slight sheen, giving it a refined look.
Poplin Properties
Poplin is a weaving technique that turns cotton into a thin, smooth fabric. Its fine weave makes it soft on the skin. Additionally, poplin is strong and durable, ensuring longevity. As it drapes smoothly and moves easily with your body, poplin is suitable for both casual and formal clothing. While solid-colored poplin garments are classic and timeless, poplin with patterns like stripes or checks can add an interesting twist to your outfit. Incorporate poplin into your wardrobe for a layered look without adding bulk.
You can find this fabric in:
- Poplin shirts
- Poplin pants
- Poplin suits
Seersucker
Seersucker is a cotton fabric with a crinkled texture. The wrinkles allow for extra ventilation, making seersucker ideal for hot and humid days.
Seersucker Properties
Because seersucker is lightweight and breathable, it’s highly comfortable to wear, even in high temperatures. Additionally, it’s low-maintenance, rarely requiring ironing, making it a practical choice for travel. Traditional seersucker colors are blue and white, but it’s available in a wide range of colors and patterns. This makes it perfect for achieving a summery, preppy look. With its timeless appeal, seersucker is suitable for both formal and casual occasions.
You can find this fabric in:
- Seersucker shirts
- Seersucker shorts
- Seersucker suits
