I LIVED IN Florida for three years, so I can handle the heat. What I can’t handle is feeling like my clothes can’t keep me cool before I even get to my destination. There’s nothing worse than a soaked T-shirt plastered to my back, shorts that refuse to dry, or a button-up that traps every ounce of humidity. That’s why I’ve become picky about what I wear this time of year. Not all fabrics are going to magically lower your body temperature, but the best cooling clothing won’t have you looking like you’ve just ran through a sprinkler either. Think breathable linens, moisture-wicking performance materials, and airy vibes. After testing a bunch of summer staples over the years — and wearing them out on everything from sweaty commutes to tropical vacations — I know exactly what cooling clothing to reach for when the forecast calls for hot, sticky weather and temperatures climbing into the 90s.
Linen Shirts & Pants
No other fabric can compete with linen in the summer. The naturally breathable material allows heat to escape while its loose weave promotes airflow, making it the first thing I reach for on especially humid days. I rely on it heavily for shirts and pants.
Banana Republic Standard-Fit Linen Shirt
Best for Vacation | Now 30% Off
COOFANDY Linen Drawstring Summer Beach Pants
Best Budget Pants
Whether you’re navigating a humid city commute or lounging on a beach vacation, building your warm-weather wardrobe around breathable linens and moisture-wicking performance fabrics is the most reliable way to stay comfortable when temperatures climb.
