8 Style Strategies to Beat the Heat

When the temperatures go up, you need to change your approach to getting dressed. Here are style strategies to beat the heat

1. Skip dark colors and opt for white or light-colored neutrals. They'll absorb less heat.
2. If sweating is a problem, avoid solid silks or heavy linens. They'll both show stains.
3. Opt for natural fabrics like cotton. There are synthetic, high-tech materials on the market, but it's hard to improve on cotton, which works to wick away moisture from your skin.
4. Take advantage of open-weave fabrics like mesh or pieces made of eyelet. The looser weaves have built-in ventilation.
5. Choose relaxed silhouettes like gauze sundresses, filmy camisoles or breezy skirts. Avoid too-tight anything: it's unbearable in the heat.
6. Leather dresses or leggings or shorts? You'll melt in them. Save them for cooler weather.
7. Even heavy accessories like huge necklaces wrapped in layers around your neck are uncomfortable when it's hot and humid. Accessorize with earrings instead, which hang loose from the body and won't heat you up.
8. Lighten your load by trading a huge handbag for a smaller, lighter bag.