Managing Summer Heat: Stifling Polyester
Have you ever noticed, when you do your laundry or your husband’s “athletic wear,” that it has a certain.. odor?
Or perhaps there’s a polyester blouse you only wore for a few hours that left you feeling stuffy and suffocated?
You are not crazy. It’s likely synthetic fabric is the cause! Polyester, rayon, and spandex are some of the most popular synthetic fabrics that we wear during the summer.
However, it does come at a cost. Mostly to your temperature and (not so glamorous to confess) your aroma.
For the past few years, I’ve grown increasingly cognizant of breathable fabrics. The combination of living part time in the Arizona desert and part time in the south of France has made this ‘a thing.’
A ‘thing’ that I did not foresee in my life 😂.
Heat management is a big priority now as (in fact) it is with my husband too, as his company is all about heat and sweat management!)
So let’s dive into these synthetic fabrics, starting with the most popular… polyester!
Polyester is a synthetic material that tends to trap heat and moisture against your skin, leading to excessive sweating. Wearing polyester in the heat can be quite uncomfortable and potentially harmful due to the fabric's lack of breathability and poor moisture-wicking properties.
Unlike natural fibers like cotton, which allow air to circulate and help keep your body cool, polyester can create a stifling and sticky environment. This can not only make you feel overheated but increase the risk of developing heat-related ailments such as heat rash or even heat exhaustion.
Wearing cotton and linen in hot weather is highly advantageous due to their natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties. These fabrics are lightweight and allow air to circulate freely, which helps to keep your body cool by promoting the evaporation of sweat.
Cotton, being soft and absorbent, ensures that any moisture is quickly drawn away from your skin. Similarly, linen, with its loose weave and high permeability, excels at maintaining a fresh, dry feel even in sweltering conditions.
Additionally, both fabrics are hypoallergenic and gentle on your skin, making them ideal choices if you have sensitivities of any kind. The combination of comfort, breathability, and moisture management make cotton and linen perfect for staying cool and comfortable in hot weather.
So… Here below are a few stores that are TOPS for good cottons and linens. I hope you enjoy and stay cool!
#1 Boden: Their cotton tees are SUPER fantastic. I wish you could feel them through the screen. It’s also a great brand for linen dresses and skirts!
Use the filter to check “linen” so you can see all of their beautiful options!
#2 Quince: This is a must for you to check out! They focus on natural fabrics in classic yet modern designs. You can also easily shop by fabric choice.
#3 Eileen Fisher: This high quality brand has a modern, clean aesthetic that suits many different body types.
How cute is this understated mock neck?
