Summer Dressing Challenges and Solutions

April

Humidity. It’s a huge problem for my hair, and I hate feeling sticky. I have come to believe the hair problem cannot be solved without one of the keratinizing straightening treatments, since no amount of “product” will get my hair to behave when it’s hot and humid.

I also hate the freezing AC levels — hello, Amtrak — and mainly grab a jacket as defense.

July 31, 2012 at 5:20 am

lex

Great post! As an Australian, my constant battle in summer is to protect my fair skin while also remaining cool and not having to carry a hat around with me everywhere.

I still carry a hat around with me everywhere. I am yet to find a hat that works with most outfits that is foldable. The foldable ones are too floppy for my liking, but the panama is a pain to lug around.

Then there’s the arm covering. It’s really too hot for arm-covering, but since I loathe the sun I need to. A light cardigan? I sweat like a pig. I tried a denim shirt last year over dresses, but it looked far too casual worn loose and awkward tied. Sigh.

July 31, 2012 at 5:22 am

Vildy

Veteran

lex, I’ve mostly abandoned sunblock for normal daily running around – vs being stranded somewhere outdoors. I took my cue from an article by a physician who said to go back to the old fashioned way of covering up: hats, sleeves.

I do wear hats a lot and I find that for short periods a trilby is urban and snappy, with a different vibe than a floppier hat and gives some protection. Ultra-humid here and I like a poly cotton woven blend unlined little jacket, worn open. Looks crisp and doesn’t trap humidity.

Whatever happened to parasols? Somebody should design a city parasol and make their fortune.

July 31, 2012 at 5:34 am

sarah

Veteran

Gosh, Angie, that sounds miserable! I’m sorry that you’re always cold, all summer long : (

My main challenge is the opposite of yours: remaining comfortable and stylish when it’s hot, particularly as I ride my bike to work. But I’m lucky in that my work is very casual in the summer and I have control over my thermostat. So, I mostly wear bermudas and cool tops. On the occasion when I know it’s going to be *really* hot, I’ll swap out bike shorts, since I don’t have a shower available at work.

July 31, 2012 at 5:41 am

Palmfronds

I am glad I am not the only one struggling with this hot-cold temperature shift in the summer, although I am sorry you have to deal with this at all! I have a medical condition that makes me physically ill when too-cold air touches my skin. So winter, where I am in long sleeves and pants anyway tends to actually be easier for me than summer when I wear short sleeves or dresses/skirts outside in 90 degree weather(here in the south) then need to cover up quickly when I walk indoors. Summers were extremely difficult for me until I invested in some key items. So cotton work trousers, khakis in fun summer colors this year, lightweight boots to wear with dresses and skirts(so my legs are covered) and linen-cotton unlined jackets have become my best friends. The jackets especially are good because they can be folded and jammed into a large tote. I still get really frustrated sometimes trying to figure out what to wear day to day but this summer has been easier after bolstering my closet with those cotton-based items.
p.s–thanks to the YLF family two years ago for helping me work out the covered leg problem.They suggested lightweight boots worn without hose–I now have 3 pairs that are my summer work horse shoes. Prior to that time I was quite unfashionably wearing skin-tone hose all summer long…

July 31, 2012 at 5:57 am

Marigold

Active Member

I second humidity…I don’t mind temperatures rising but with close to 100 % humidity, even high 80’s are miserable. I also run hot and that’s why, beginning May till late September, I surrender closed shoes and long pants.. This year, I wore jeans maybe twice since late spring.. And both occasions were nights out.
I agree about the AC comment, going to a grocery store is a nightmare, especially in the cold/freezer section, but I don’t layer, just hurry up and grab my stuff lol. When I used to work (SAHM now), my office was freezing cold as well, to the point I was shivering in my long pants and short sleeve top. I learned to keep a lightweight sweater in my drawer pretty quickly ;). With a very casual lifestyle I have now, my hair stays up most of the time (pony tail but I look for something more creative and cuter! Any ideas? It’s long, too, unfortunately). With days sent at the pool/park/spraygrounds, there is not much variety to my clothing.. Usually shorts/tee or a swimsuit lol, can’t wait the Fall when the boots and scarves come out to play. For me, summer is all about fun, even if not too fashionable…

July 31, 2012 at 5:59 am

rose

I agree, AC certainly has its pros, but I don’t like it set SO LOW! I live in the south US, and it is HOT- but buildings are set at 60 – 70F, so there is a 20-30 degree difference between in and outdoor and I FREEZE inside all summer!

July 31, 2012 at 6:00 am

Diana

Veteran

My major summer dressing challenges can all be linked to the infernal heat and humidity. To top it all off, my lab is oddly hot at times (even though most are freezing) but once in a while the AC goes into overdrive and then it is freezing. I hate sweating if I can’t jump in the shower immediately afterwards (so, basically, it’s only OK if I am working out!). My commute involves a mile walk so on really hot days I am already sweaty at the beginning of my day, which is just gross. Plus, it makes me sad that I cannot wear boots, layers, jackets, scarves, etc in the summer.

OK, enough whining. Here are some of my summer solutions:
-NO POLYESTER!!!!!! (Biggest one, poly is gross in the summer.)
-thin pettipants under my skirts – prevents thigh rubbing, plus acts as a slip under really, thin unlined skirts. Oddly having an extra layer is cooler there because it prevents a lot of sweating and sticking.
-comfy sandals – I have fussy feet already and humidity makes them even more blister prone so these are a must. The cork footbed sandals are tops.
-hair off my neck – I always carry a big hairclip with me! It’s immensely cooler to have my heavy hair up.
-light and floaty fabrics.

July 31, 2012 at 6:02 am

clearlyclaire

With the help of YLF, I’m having the best summer for dressing since we moved here. I’ve finally realized that I’m usually going from air conditioning to car to air conditioning no matter what I do, as summer is our indoor season. Phoenicians generally do not *hang out* outside in the heat, unless in the swimming pool. The air conditioning in stores used to drive me crazy, but now I just dress for it since I run cold like you Angie. I’ve collected some fun toppers that give me a lot of variety instead of carrying the same frumpy sweater around to put over everything. I’m so glad I read your post on shopping for my dominant season!

July 31, 2012 at 6:04 am

purlgirl

Active Member

Summer is lovely, but not my favorite season for dressing. The heat here can be intense. Air conditioning is not typical, so when it’s hot you just have to suffer through it. I’ve learned to carry a fan — sounds odd, but this helps immensely. It’s small, fits in my purse and helps me keep my cool. My favorite tops for the heat are dolman-sleeved because they give the armpits some breathing room and still give some arm coverage. Skirts work too. I am an hourglass, so while loose flowy dresses would seem to be ideal, they don’t work for my shape. All in all, summer is my most difficult season for dressing.

July 31, 2012 at 6:19 am

anne

Veteran

Hmm, I must have complained about australian summers enough for Angie’s post to have included my challenges ” tops that require a camisole, to feeling too hot to wear accessories or structured clothing”. And like Lex, I haven’t really got a great hat solution either.
A/C doesn’t feature much in my summers. I pretty much live in loose sundresses and am on the lookout for those that are long enough to wear without leggings (way too hot) and high enough in the neck not to need a cami.

July 31, 2012 at 6:20 am

mamark

Active Member

I have a new-to-me summer dilemma. I’ve been commuting to New York (from my native San Francisco) all month. I’ve had “summer” dressing for SF figured out for some time, the answer being, there really is no summer.

But NYC has a real summer, and real air conditioning (freezing!), no to mention completely random thunderstorms from time to time.

For my work, I have to hop between buildings several times a day, so any outfit that is right for the freezing office will have me a sweaty mess by the time I walk two blocks to another building.

I would imagine one solution is to take off my third piece (in my case, usually a cardigan with some shape – business casual) when outside, but I don’t like my pale, flabby and spotted upper arms and it doesn’t seem professional to show them, particularly when I’m making the schlep with a group of colleagues.

I have been looking for really lightweight third pieces – knits that are airy or made only of linen and cotton – but there isn’t a lot of selection in this category.

If anyone has any suggestions for how you manage this in NYC, I’d love to hear them!

July 31, 2012 at 6:33 am

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

For me, summer dressing is all about light layering. Our summers are very hot here in Winnipeg but I work in an office that is air conditioned. My office temperature fluctuates greatly though due to me being in an older part of the complex. Sometimes my office temp hovers around +27 C or can plummet to +20 C. I love skirts and dresses during the summer so start there but always take a jacket or sweater that works with the outfit in case it’s one of the cold office days.

I tend to run warm anyway (thanks to menopause hot flushes!) so live in sandals from June – September.

July 31, 2012 at 6:41 am

Sihaya

Veteran

I am in the exact same boat as you Angie though I can do sandals and open toed shoes in the indoors AC. My biggest challenge is with sleeveless. I am trying my best now to stay away from sleeveless tops and dresses. This is especially hard since most dresses seem to be sleeveless. I carry around a jacket too. I also don’t like wearing jackets with sleeveless tops as they smell of sweat (sorry to be graphic) faster. One partial workaround I have found is very lightweight tops that have sleeves, camis that allow me to breathe, and jackets that I can wash instead of dry clean.

July 31, 2012 at 6:42 am

Mo

(website)

Veteran

I have decided to not add any more summer wear to my wardrobe either, despite being in FL this year. I have enough and will be moving back to CA snow in winter. When I go walking (yes, I walk to the stores and post office) I need a) comfortable and breathable footwear and b) shorts that don’t stick to me, or a skirt or dress for airflow. I can work around the rest. Whenever I forget these 2 important tenets, I regret it halfway along my walk.
This year I am concentrating on more stylish footwear for my everyday needs. I found I wore my ‘cute’ shoes once a week on the BF’s day off but ran around in my ‘fancy’ flip flops or Birkenstocks 99% of the time. Just purchasing 2 pair of sandals will infinitely ‘up’ my summer style quotient. I also am playing with belts and bracelets for a little more oomph when layering is just not an option.
I don’t have the a/c challenges some of you do. I enjoy the moment of coolness after the heat. But I do have light jackets and a summer weight cardi if I did need.
Lastly, my dress silhouette of choice this year is a more blouson, drapey look and it is so breezy in the humid stickiness compared to fitted styles of the past.

July 31, 2012 at 6:42 am

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

I tolerate heat better than cold – but only up to a point. When the weather is in the 90s with humidity my best solution is breathable fabrics – which, unfortunately, my bras are not. They get switched a lot in the summer.

July 31, 2012 at 6:45 am

Krista

Veteran

My summer wardrobe challenges revolve around humidity, but also the challenges of needing two full capsules of both professional and casual wear. Our weather has changed over the past few years and now we can have a warm/humid season from May right through until Canadian Thanksgiving in October. After ridiculously cold winters, this is great, but I am a high-school administrator, so I need a full professional wardrobe for May, June, late August, September and early October and a full casual wardrobe for July, most of August and weekends in the warm season because I am on holiday and nowhere near a professional situation (in the Fall/Winter my casual wardrobe is smaller because I seem to dress casually on weekends only).

My other challenge is finding footwear for the summer professional capsule. Once the warm weather comes, I don’t wear nylons, so I am barefoot in my shoes. I love sandals, but it’s a challenge to find summer-weight professional shoes/sandals that aren’t too high or casual and with a non-slip sole (my job requires shoes that look good but also that I can run in in an urgent situation).

All of this being said I’ve picked up some awesome ideas from this forum to help with these challenges. So I am using my current holiday time to look at my wardrobe and find solutions – which really just means I am shopping my heart out.

July 31, 2012 at 6:54 am

Jamie

Veteran

Heat, humidity, and A/C — the story of my life for far too many months out of the year. What I would give for more moderate weather! Anyway, I manage with layers. Some days I do better than others. Yesterday was not such a good day. Freezing all day long in the A/C, and as soon as I stepped outdoors, all I had to do was stand for a minute or two in the heat and humidity and started to sweat. Maddening. I don’t like to be either too hot or too cold, so I wear layers and add/subtract all day. I also have to manage the rain. Luckily this year, we’ve had good periods of rain, but this is not light, misty rain. When it rains here, it’s a deluge, and if you’re caught in it, you may as well chuck your shoes. So, I have to plan for that too. I won’t even go into the heat/humidity/hair topic.

July 31, 2012 at 6:58 am

Mamapicklejuice

Veteran

I finally mastered layering…so critical for early spring, late summer, where it can go from quite chilly mornings to hot and sticky afternoons. I pair sleeveless tops with knit jackets which give me extra polish when I need it but are easily shed on a sunny playground. I have you to thank for pushing me to seek out knit jackets and it has proven to be a wonderful wardrobe solution for me, so thank you!

July 31, 2012 at 7:07 am

Sunita

Veteran

I’m like you Angie. Growing up in the tropics (India) has left me with a preference for warmer temps and I hate the summers in DC where you have to prepare for high heat/humidity outdoors as well as freezing temps indoors.

I’ve made my peace with summertime layering and happily wear jackets or cardis over my sleeveless dresses and tops. I don’t feel the cold as much on my legs or feet and am comfortable with open-toed shoes in the summer.

July 31, 2012 at 7:14 am

merwoman

Veteran

I used to run cold, but a “blessing” of being post-menopausal is a raise in temperature of my internal thermostat. My challenge is trying to keep cool – while keeping my sensitive skin covered. As Diana mentioned, type of fabric is key – cotton is wonderful. I’m also loving all these gauzy tops that are so abundant this year; layered over a cami it works quite well for me.

July 31, 2012 at 7:14 am

Queen Mum

Veteran

I really can’t complain. We have heat waves, but after a few days of miserable temperatures it usually drops back down to the livable range. My biggest summer “dilemma” (which really isn’t) is that when June hits and we’re all in the mood for summer, it usually turns gloomy and chilly. Then come September when we’re all ready for fall temperatures, we have the hottest month of the year. I guess my biggest complaint is that evenings cool down quite a bit, even on the warmest days, so I have to be prepared to throw on a few layers for outdoor evening activities. I probably need to focus on acquiring more long sleeve summer toppers so that I don’t feel that I’m always defaulting to my denim jacket.

July 31, 2012 at 7:15 am

Laura

I must be running cold, because I’ve been able to wear loose t-shirts and blouses with my boyfriend jeans all summer, in what’s been the hottest July in 57 years. Thank goodness for running cold. High five, Angie!

July 31, 2012 at 7:22 am

Hannah

I have Raynaud’s Phenomenon, and my extremities become discolored in the cold – in the winter, I sometimes wear two pairs of socks, and then two pairs of gloves when outside. I’ve even been known to wear my heavy winter jacket around my office over my work clothes.

In the summer, my office temperature is regulated by my boss, who prefers extreme cold. I also like to go outside for my lunch break and walk in my city’s downtown area, which can be quite a hot endeavor. I dress each day for walking downtown (comfortable flats or sandals, light tops, knee length skirts or capris), and then hide an electric heater underneath my desk for most of the work day. I can keep my door closed, and trap in the heat.

July 31, 2012 at 7:27 am

Cynthia

(website)

I live in North Carolina. Right now it’s in the 90s during the day, and humidity is pretty high. It’s gotten as hot as the hundreds a few times this summer though now we seem to be back into a more moderate phase.

Last year I decided I really wasn’t going to buy any more “winter” clothes because they are useless here. It was shirtsleeve weather from March to November here last year, and I just need to shift my style to adapt.

I used to layer everything up with a cardigan to cope with the super air-conditioned indoor spaces, but this summer I just haven’t done that as much. I’m trying to improve my temperature tolerance. I wear sleeveless or short sleeve dresses or tops, take short walk breaks out in the hot sun during the day (this also gets me some Vitamin D), and come back indoors. 68 isn’t really that cold, and if we were outside in 68 degrees we’d be fine. It’s the contrast with ambient temps that makes the indoors seem extreme.

July 31, 2012 at 7:35 am

bookwormmoran

Active Member

I live in Colorado where it is to and dry. However, when I start teaching in August or when I go to the theater I take a light jacket or sweater to peel on and off. My classroom runs hot and cold and the teenage girls in their little shorts and tanks freeze while the boys never seem to be cool enough. I still wear sandals and shorts and skirts – just carry the extra layer. I also have been dealing with hot flashes, so my husband bought me a little, handheld fan to keep in my purse, so that I can cool off in emergencies. It also makes layers more important.

July 31, 2012 at 7:59 am

MsMary

Veteran

Angie, this is so funny! I just posted my outfit for today and talked about how it’s hot inside and freezing inside! I really suffer during the summer because I hate, hate, hate the freezing cold a/c blowing on me all the time! So I wear my jackets and long-sleeved tops and even my wool Halogen pencil skirts and the dreaded polyester (it’s not humid here, thank goodness) all year round because most of the time I’m going from air-conditioned car to air-conditioned office to air-conditioned home!

July 31, 2012 at 8:05 am

Aziraphale

Veteran

Oh Angie, I feel your pain! I’m at the opposite end of the spectrum, as you know; I wilt in the heat, and I’d rather be a little cold than too hot. But I understand the difficulty of dressing in a comfortable way in the summer if you’re in and out of buildings that blast the AC. Even in Seattle, where it’s not terribly hot, the temperature difference when you walk inside can be shocking.

I”m like you in that I love sleeveless tops, but because I run so hot, I get to wear them all the time. I wear sleeveless well into the fall! I do carry a cardigan in my bag just in case. One thing I’ve been doing a lot lately is wearing a very lightweight collared shirt over a tank, and I only do up a couple of buttons. It provides some warmth and UV protection, but if it gets too hot, I can take it off and put sunscreen on my arms.

I wish there were perfect solution to summer style problems. I’ve finally decided that I simply prefer fall, spring and winter clothes, and I have to be happy with my least preferred styles — loose dresses, loose shorts, no waist definition (ack! sweaty!) and almost no accessories when it’s really hot. There comes a point where comfort wins.

July 31, 2012 at 8:10 am

Lisa

Veteran

I also run on team cold and cannot wear summer clothing in the a/c. I wear 3 layers in the summer months and peel off or add on as I transition between a/c and outside.

For work my formula has been: tank top, t-shirt, and a cardigan/blazer/or sweater. I can remove the top layer when I go outside for lunch and relayer when going back indoors. All the tank tops and t-shirts are basic colors with no prints, so that I can layer easily. To add interest to the outfits my top layer has some type of print or pattern (stripes on a blazer, a flower print on a cardigan or just a really bold color such as cobalt blue if it’s a solid item).

For the bottom half I stick to shoes with socks or even boots in a lighter color and jeans. I cannot wear bare legs indoors or open toed shoes or sandals.

I save sandals, shorts and dresses for the weekends when I am outdoors. I carry a cardigan or blazer to layer for when I go indoors on weekends.

Since I have long hair, I was and go in the summer months (I cannot handle the heat to blow dry in the summer) and wear a variety of updo’s: ponytails, twists, buns, anything to get the hair off the back of my neck). I also carry a larger bag than winter months to fit sunglasses and a bottled water inside for weekend errand running.

July 31, 2012 at 8:29 am

morethanbeige

Veteran

I used to bat for team cold, but my internal temp seems to be on the rise. As little clothing as possible is my goal in this D.C. sweltering heat. The A/C used to bother me, but doesn’t seem to be as much of an issue this summer (hmmm). Humidity is also high. I just try to go with the flow even though it’s hard to feel fresh and fashionable.

July 31, 2012 at 8:41 am

jen6425

Member

I live in SC and it is hot and steamy here all summer. Having previously lived in the northern parts of the states, I needed to find some new things to wear for work and for play. For work, I’ve found that Misook knits are wonderful – esp a jacket over a sleeveless top. They breath and are very lightweight. I have also been purchasing some shirts that are sunblockers – just basic white button downs or safari type. They breath well also and can be found at sporting goods or athletic wear shops. I also have found them online at Travelsmith.

Now, shoes are another matter – haven’t figured that one out yet…………….:)

July 31, 2012 at 8:51 am

ManidipaM

Veteran

Let’s see. Challenges:
– Raynaud’s (waving to Hannah!) means I hate not only a cold airconditioned office but also abrupt switches of temperature, which are kinda inevitable walking in from 100 degrees F (mid-40s in Celsius) outdoors
– Extreme humidity makes my hair curl… and puff up! Instant volume, impossible to manage.
– I have a short neck and stylistically as well, prefer no collars; BUT a collarless neckline often means a folded placket rubbing the back of my neck in 80+ humidity and aforesaid heat. Voila! Instant rash and blocked sweat glands — what in India we call ‘prickly heat’. Itches like the dickens, then weeps and bleeds; also means you aren’t sweating right and are at risk of overheating if you get enough of it…
– like along your back or belly or under the arms…
– I sweat like a shower in heat! and wilt in cold. Yeah, not great on the thermoregulation front (cf. Raynaud’s)
– and I burn in the sun, ironically for my tropical genes!
– I have fussy feet that blister in any weather, but humidity is especially painful.
– My thighs rub together or stick together in humid heat if wearing skirts and dresses. Ugh!

Some solutions (in reverse order):
– leggings! I discovered only last year (as with Diana’s pettipants) that actually wearing thin cotton jersey leggings or footless tights makes a dress or skirt far easier to wear. I actually find it cooler than going barelegged, because it wicks away sweat and reduces chafing. Plus! Bonus layer for warmth in Arctic Office environment. Loose, long Indian-style tunics with leggings are fast becoming a go-to silhouette in summer. Extra lifestyle advantage: I can go from sitting on the floor cross-legged (my varicose veins’ favourite position) to sitting in a car or office chair without adjustments or changes!
– next best option for bottoms: slouchy soft pants (harem pants, salwars and such). They are a little less kind to humidity than leggings, though. But nice for a change of silhouette sometimes.
– for jeans/casual pants, I only just discovered that skinnies are kinder in summer than bootcuts (my hitherto favourite shape)!
– still working on the shoe chapter. BUT have finally realized that like Angie, my feet on the whole are happier enclosed from cold air as well as mucky streets. Clarks, towards which Angie and other forum members (Meredith and Shannon among them) nudged me, have proved a great favourite this summer for shoes that enclose without cooping up my wide toebox too much. Don’t have a humidity solution yet though; still sometimes sticky in there (sorry about the ugh!) and definitely not much use in monsoonal waterlogging.
– clothes cut looser under the arms work better for me in hot, humid weather. Dolman sleeves, raglans or traditional Indian kurta styles that have a square insert in a squared armhole rather than the conventional Western style of curved armhole.
– longer sleeved garments in lightweight woven (not knit) cotton or linen are actually cooler than sleeveless on the whole
– I switch my bras to all-cotton or cotton-rich sports bras in summer — support and breathability together, and because they are designed for an active lifestyle, they usually minimize chafing.
– Similarly, I’ve started using ‘tech’ sports tees for loungewear as well of late in summer. Far comfier, surprisingly to this ‘natural fibres’ fan, than a cotton T-shirt in humid weather!
– I’ve started to prefer necklines that sit well away from the nape (scoops, for example, both front and back) OR a very lightweight soft collar. Less friction, less moisture sitting on the skin just under a seam or similar this way.
– I’ve recently invested in a couple of lightweight cotton scarves. If I can lay them right to wick away moisture along the neck without disrupting air flow entirely, I feel cooler (I sometimes stick the scarf in the freezer for extra comfort) and am less sticky, hence less likely to chafe and get a rash.
– I still don’t have much of a solution for summer hair except to either cut it pixie-short or pull it up in a barette/scrunchie/hair elastic/claw. Note these are all variations of a basic ponytail or a loose bun. Not sure what else I could do that’s fast, easy (I have 10 thumbs) and elegant.
– My cold office solution used to be a shawl left in my desk drawer. This year, with YLF’s encouragement and examples, I finally added some lightweight toppers to my summer wardrobe. Unlined and knit jackets are the favourite so far, and I’m keeping an eye out for a denim or linen jacket as well.
– I don’t wear sleeveless tops with a topper, though — the ‘sweaty armpit’ (apologies, again!) problem again.
– I do wear sleeveless garments with a lightweight scarf instead — coverage if needed indoors (doesn’t cut it for a long day in the office, however) but without the extra layer under the arm
– I’m looking for a few summer dresses with a substantial shoulder strap or sleeves, in styles that skim the body without a tight waistband or belt, in a fabric substantial enough not to cling and neckline high enough not to need extra layers under. So far, no dice. Making do with one spaghetti-strapped smock-yoked dress with a topper and another which requires a cami and a belt (I’ve successfully used a ribbon belt) meanwhile.

Oh and about the accessories (apart from bags; and I don’t belt often), I’m restricting myself to hanging them in my ears or putting them in my hair most days. I do wear a bracelet or necklace sometimes, but it’s the exception, not the norm.

July 31, 2012 at 9:01 am

KathyL

Veteran

Summer is definitely our dominant season, lasting usually from May to about October with temps in the upper 90s to 100s and high humidity. Like Claire, Texans love their AC and are mostly indoors during the high summer days (July and August). I tend to run cold as well, so I usually have a light cardigan in the summer. Plus, I wear a labcoat at work which adds some warmth. I love summer dresses with a light cardigan. My challenge is that I only wear closed-toe shoes to work. I’ve been looking for comfy, fashionable shoes to wear with skirts and dresses. I’m starting to think they don’t exist!

July 31, 2012 at 9:01 am

LibraCyn

Active Member

I am in-between team cold and team hot. I used to be solidly in “team cold.” My summer dressing challenge is that I would love to be able to wear capri pants, but the truth is, my ankles are WAYYY too skinny to that, so I am relegated to wearing pants, even when it’s too hot out. It’s totally frustrating to me and I am almost embarrassed to post this! Lately I have become braver and sport the occasional above-the-knee dress to church. I still find that people stare at my legs, and that makes me extremely uncomfortable!

July 31, 2012 at 9:03 am

ManidipaM

Veteran

I know I just wrote a book, but forgot to second Mo on finding my Birkenstocks incredibly handy for a casual day (ie, if I’m not going into the office) in summer. Supportive and comfy and entirely blister-free.

Also: still struggling with sunglasses that have PLAIN, wide side straps for protection on the sides. I get migraines from strong light.

Ditto the hat that will let the head breathe but also fold nicely away. Currently, it’s a rigid straw hat, but it’s cumbersome to carry every day. Especially when sun and rain are playing tag. Umbrella or hat? I usually take the brolly, which does help with sun but isn’t a hands-free solution, thus no fun (sweaty crook of elbow!) on a long walk.

Have also found mineral-based/rich sunscreens (titanium or zinc dioxides) make me less hot and sweaty than the all-chemical ‘screens. Does anyone else have that experience? Or is it something else in the formulas I use that makes the difference, I wonder…

July 31, 2012 at 9:07 am

Vicki

(website)

Veteran

I would much rather be warm than cold, especially A/C cold, which is artificial. Having had skin cancer on my arm and also just generally liking to cover up, I’ve left the sleeveless days behind and now prefer to wear long-sleeved shirts or blouses. If it’s really warm outside, I’ll wear a thinner, lighter-weight top, so that I don’t feel too warm. Or, I would wear a short-sleeved top.

Bringing a jacket or a topper along doesn’t bother me. If I know I’m going to be inside and I’m not sure about the inside temperature conditions, I’ll always take a “wrap” with me. I rarely wear shorts (yesterday was a rarity for me), but I’d rather be covered on top than on the bottom half. I do have sandals, but my toes can get cold, so I’d opt for ballet flats or Cons in the summer for casual wear.

July 31, 2012 at 9:27 am

rachylou

Veteran

The A/C battle. Well, I’m wearing a parka indoors right now. I tried leaving a sweater at work but, eh, I like my sweaters to match what I’m wearing. Also, as a contractor, I don’t like leaving personal items at work. When I was living in Arizona, I would catch colds because of the indoor/outdoor temperature swings. That was hard on my system.

Mostly, I’ve been learning not to buy sleeveless, no matter how cute! I have A LOT of sweaters. When not at work or in a movie theater, I make do occasionally with a shirt as a jacket. Hoodies aren’t bad, weight wise.

July 31, 2012 at 9:27 am

klauren

Active Member

Opposite problem here, I run too hot most of the time – my own “personal summer” all year long, if you know what I mean :^)) I hate the heat, so when it’s really hot outside (lots of days in the 80 – 90s) I’m just miserable. I really dislike sleeveless, so I’m always searching for cute sleeved tops. And being a lady of over a certain age, my upper arms have seen better days, hence the sleeves as well. Finally, this year, there are dresses being offered that have a sleeve!
As for being hot or cold, I can ALWAYS put more stuff on, jackets, sweaters and the like, but too hot, well, you can get arrested for taking too much off, and I also don’t want to scare little children as well.

July 31, 2012 at 10:20 am

Sylvie

Veteran

My challenge is that I need to dress for temperatures in the 50’s (morning on the way to the train station) and 70’s (evening waiting at the train station). The office is actually a reasonable temperature. If I wear jeans, that ten minutes of waiting in the exposed sun is excruciating. However, if I don’t cover my arms, I’m worried about sun damage.

Last week and this week I’ve been handling it by wearing skirts or dresses + denim jacket. I can handle the cold on my legs and the denim jacket keeps my arms warm. In the evening, I can toss the jacket over my shoulders for sun protection without getting too warm.

July 31, 2012 at 10:37 am

La Francaise

In a Northern European climate the biggest problem is HOW to dress. I often leave home early, before the sun is up, when it may be raining or overcast, only to leave the hospita mid-afternoonl to find sweltering heat, and the sun beating down. Or the complete reverse: I’ve expected a hot sticky day, only to go home in a downpour, or a brisk North wind and cool 19 degrees. The only solution is layering, carrying a very large tote, and making sure I never forget to pack a tube of SPF60!

July 31, 2012 at 10:47 am

Beth Ann

Veteran

I run warm. All year long. I’m one of those whose face will drip in the heat, as I proved this week, when I took the kids to Six Flags Great America. Since I don’t go back to an “office” until the end of August, I have mostly my home A/C, which isn’t too cold, but even in stores, I’m OK with the frigid A/C and rarely carry a topper (expect in movie theaters). Like Diana, I’ve discovered the wonders of pettipants under my skirts and dresses. I still wear a light shaper cami with a built in bra under all my knits. This absorbs sweat and gives me a smoother line under my clothes.

This fall, I’m trying to remind myself that I run warm all year long — and my studio at the college is a little overheated. So, I’m shopping for lighter layers, particularly in tops and jackets. Since I drive to work, and I own a great puffer, these light layers are perfect for my commute as well.

July 31, 2012 at 10:52 am

wyplash

Active Member

My summer challenge finding a bra or appropriate under-layer for all of the beautiful tops that have teeny tiny straps and/or criss-cross. I love these tops, but detest strapless bras and bra straps showing. I have found a few great tanks at Victoria’s Secret that have built in bra tops, but they are geared toward the larger busted ladies. I’m just not big enough for a shelf bra!

I find tops I love and am then restricted to wearing a layer over them to hide the bra straps. BTW – if we had to vote I’m sleeveless all the way. I manage to wear sleeveless tops and dresses all year long – even in the cold weather. I would love to see more bra tops for smaller chest sizes. I think this would be a big market.

Angie – I’m like you. I’d rather be warm than cold any-day. It would be awesome to not worry about layering during the summer.

July 31, 2012 at 10:59 am

Mita

Active Member

Great topic, thank you. I also live in Seattle with its almost mono-season. It is exciting, the few weeks of summer, to wear the lighter fabrics. I am also always cold Angie and work indoor sitting at a desk all day. Must layer to stay happy although I remove one layer in the summer (the cami), lose the wool socks, and switch to shoes instead of boots. I never wear my sleeveless tops cause I dont love my arms and I am not sure that the layering of a sleeveless top over a thin long sleeved shirt works (what do you think?). One of my wardrobe questions in general is what comfy shoes to wear with nice pants. When I wear cords, i can wear nice clogs but I suspect that wont work with dressier slacks. But I am in healthcare so want to look professional yet be comfortable on my feet when needed.

July 31, 2012 at 11:31 am

JR

Veteran

My situation is almost the precise opposite of yours. I tolerate heat rather poorly, and live in a city that is hot and muggy in the summertime. With no A/C. Unfortunately, I also get chilled rather badly if I have to sit for any time in A/C, like at church or in the movie theater. (I don’t work outside the home.)

My solution is to wear all those summer clothes: T-shirts, tanks, capris, shorts, skirts, and almost nothing but sandals for footwear. But I always have a scarf tucked in my purse, usually a large one that can be worn as a shawl. And when going out, I usually take a cardigan or jacket along too. I bring out my long pants and closed shoes only for movie theatres or any other situation when I will be sitting for long periods of time in the cold.

July 31, 2012 at 11:58 am

rae

(website)

Veteran

My challenge is that the summer heat directly opposes my preferences. It gets in the way of my boots, my jeans, my jackets. I have to make do with belts, sandals, and bags that carry enough style for the entire outfit.

July 31, 2012 at 12:49 pm

Mo

(website)

Veteran

Wyplash – I am also not very large chested and found this bra is perfect for hot summer fashions. http://www.zappos.com/natori-s.....32005-cafe I swear it is a savior. I have tons of racerback and other strappy tops it works with.

July 31, 2012 at 1:48 pm

CocoLion

(website)

Veteran

Angie, I am sorry you are so often uncomfortable! And actually, I am surprised there is even any a/c in Seattle, why would someone run it?

I live in an area with hot, dry summers. It’s 95-100 out today. We have solar energy so in order to conserve and not have to pay into the grid, we don’t run a/c from 12 noon to 6 pm (of course at our business this is not the case, although even there we do not over-air condition, we can’t due to the heat generated by the kitchen). I seldom need even a jacket at night, because I tend to wear sleeves for work and long pants. I don’t get that hot because I stay in the shade and my clothing is loose. I used to wear shorts and sleeveless tanks but have found that I am just as comfortable if my clothing is loose and made from a heat-tolerant fabric like cotton, linen, modal or rayon. Polyester is too sweaty for July and August (although I actually like some poly’s).

No one really over air-conditions in this part of California. It’s not like Arizona or Las Vegas where you freeze indoors. People frequently use swamp coolers as well which are much gentler than a/c (but are not ideal for really hot desert places like AZ).

July 31, 2012 at 2:52 pm

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

WOW. There is excellent information. Thanks for sharing! I’m impressed with how you’ve solved your dressing challenges. It’s also interesting to hear how different our Summer dressing challenges are

Lex, I’ve found a sleeved linen shirt ideal for hot weather.

Mamark, have you tried a dark or patterned blousoned dress in a fit and flare style with sleeves? It’s very forgiving on perspiration marks and adds the coverage that you are after. Add a blazer for indoor A/C.

July 31, 2012 at 5:11 pm

shiny

Veteran

First, Angie: have you had your thyroid checked out? Is it possible you are hyperthyroid?

With that out of the way, I second the humidity problem — but mostly solve that by just letting my hair curl any which way it wants to.

I live in dresses in the summer because I find they are a lot cooler. My biggest summer problem? Finding dress-appropriate underwear that sucks it all in, smooths out the lumps and bumps, but is made out of COTTON and not synthetics. Eesh. Who wants to wear synthetic underwear in the heat? Thongs? Might as well just skip the underwear, no?

It’s not just the undies but also the bras too. Chantelle used to make a nice “breathable” bra but I don’t see it available anymore.

Well.. you DID ask.

July 31, 2012 at 7:25 pm

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Shiny, I have had my thyroid checked out. Thankfully, it’s healthy as can be

July 31, 2012 at 7:36 pm

velvetychocolate

Veteran

I’m a wee bit late to be posting, but wanted to throw in my two cents anyway…

It’s very hot where I am, and I used to live in a much cooler and milder area. I really don’t like the heat at all, and have not adapted well to it.

I recently had an ‘aha’ moment though, and it’s that I’ve always thought of shorts as ‘vacation wear’ instead of regular clothing. In the past, I never wore shorts or tee shirt type tops unless I was up north, at the family cabin.

Now I’m living in a hotter place, and I couldn’t figure out why I felt so out of sorts. It’s because I’ve always had the idea that shorts were something you wore up at the cabin, at the lake or when camping or something. Jean shorts with a tee, that kind of thing.

My one little tip for battling the heat, and still feeling somewhat stylish – is to add structure to your hot-weather wear in the city. Lately, I’ve found some dressier bermuda shorts and I’ve taken to pairing them with very crisp-looking button down shirts, with the sleeves rolled up/scrunched and sometimes even the collar popped a wee bit. My old idea of shorts and a tee just doesn’t feel right in the city…and yet, my only previous experience with shorts is just that. Something you’d throw on over your bathing suit, or pair with a totally casual tee. No wonder I felt ‘off’ for the past couple of summers.

Summer seems like you want nothing but the most casual knit items, but without any structure at all – I’ve felt less than ‘fab’ in these kinds of outfits. Too floppy and too casual. My solution has been woven button-down shirts, paired with slightly dressier bermuda shorts. This way, I don’t feel like I need the so-called “third layer’ of a structured blazer or trench coat. A crisp-looking shirt goes a long way to sort of correct for the missing blazer/jacket/trench.

Also – one other weird ‘trick’ is to wear cool colours. Early this spring, I bought some summery tops – bright pink, red, yellow – you name it. They are still sitting in my closet. What works for me is cool blue, ocean green and a bit of white. Seems kind of strange, but the warm/hot colours are actually better for me in the winter! Hot pink isn’t psychologically comfortable when it’s 104F outside. Much better to reach for a green linen shirt, don’t you think?

July 31, 2012 at 8:32 pm

christieanne

Veteran

High five to my Bay Area peers – we have not had much summer and can’t complain when the rest of the nation (and world) are in heat waves. Our June Gloom is not at all glorious (in reality it reminds one of January) but at least it isn’t sweltering.
I run warm as well and biggest dressing challenge has been finding lightweight, breathable, professional tops and blouses for work that don’t require layering

July 31, 2012 at 11:05 pm

Inge

(website)

Moderator

I have exactly the same issues as you do, Angie, and try to deal with it pretty much the same way as well:-)
I’ve also found that boxy linen or silk shirts with long sleeves are a good solution. They add a bit of coverage and warmth in airconditioned rooms, and are airy enough to not overheat outside in the sun (plus I quite like it that my arms are protected against the sun).
I also make sure to always carry a large scarf that I can throw on indoors. I like the bigger scarves for this, they can double as a wrap, I just drape them over my shoulders and back, it does help to feel warmer.

August 1, 2012 at 3:57 am

valleycat1

I’m on Team Hot/post-menopause, after years of Team Cold.

For layering (we have really hot summers here), I found cami’s with a real built-in bra at Sahalie (actual bra cups & a band that fastens underneath the cami fabric) so I get the needed support without a full extra layer or the peekaboo strap issue. They make both cotton & synthetic versions.

I agree with the others who’ve posted that’s it’s cooler to wear pettipants or light leggings under skirts or dresses. I have a short above-knee pair of leggings I can wear when I don’t want the skirt+leggings look.

I’ve also recently found footies at Target that really do stay put (I don’t like wearing closed shoes on bare feet) – a maker finally figured out to put some of that sticky lining in the heel.

August 1, 2012 at 7:23 am

valleycat1

Also, if I know I’ll be going from warm air to cooler (movie, restaurants) I often just wear a lightweight long sleeve knit top – scrunch the sleeves when warm, pull them down when cooler. If there’s a possibility of frigid a/c, I might add a lightweight sleeveless vest.

August 1, 2012 at 7:25 am

krishnidoux

Veteran

So with you Angie! And when I lived in the Canadian West Coast, I experienced the same frustration with sleeveless items.

As for the AC, it IS a real style challenge. It greatly reduces the number of wearable outfits. This article about it offers some insights as to why it is always kept so cold http://www.usatoday.com/money/.....ooms_N.htm
I notice that after a few hours subjected to the extreme AC cold, my body and brain start to slow down considerably.

My fight-back strategies include jackets and nylons, which I remove in the ladies room before going back outside. Yes, nylons! They help in retaining the heat. Slips also work in that regard, also easily removed. And finally, nylon or spandex camis. A lady in the office where I now teach walks around with a huge shawl or bed throw on her shoulders. It may be efficient, but not stylish. I prefer layering from underneath. But truly, I’d prefer if AC was set to more normal temperatures.

August 1, 2012 at 9:42 am

Aida

Veteran

I run mild (cool in summer, warm in winter), so luckily Seattle is a very fitting place for me to live I’m the other way from you, if I get too hot I just wilt and then I’m an extremely unhappy puddle. I’d MUCH rather be cold than warm, especially since once I get overheated it’s very hard for me to cool back down again. Luckily my work isn’t air conditioned, and stays 68-72 year ’round (as does my home). Coupling that with the very mild weather here I could theoretically wear the same stuff all year (esp. to work), so my biggest challenge is “making” seasons with my clothing or else I’d get tired of it. I used to dread dressing for summer, but in the past few years have turned that right around and now I really love it; I check the forecast each morning and dress in the lightest way possible to make the most of my summery clothing!

My primary summer changes to my year-round clothing:
– Swap my base neutrals from black/charcoal/camel to white/gray/taupe. I do this in the spring and I have found that, as a mood dresser who is very affected by color, it makes a HUGE difference in how I feel in the summer. In addition, this change also rejuvinates the colorful/printed pieces in my wardrobe.
– Switch from thicker wovens and sweaters to lighter wovens and jersey, especially in flowier or waist surrendering cuts. I tend to like the same fabrics, so I just look for lighter versions of them for summer. I’ve found that cotton, silk, and linen are my favorites; since our weather is mild, I can also wear a fair amount of polyester on all but the hottest of days.
– If it’s cool out I much prefer to wear light layers over thicker/warmer clothing. A sleeveless top with a light topper is perfect for me because I can take off that top layer to prevent myself getting too warm.

Doing these things keeps my wardrobe feeling fresh, and prevents me getting bored with my dominant season fall/winter pieces. I do really enjoy wearing short boots with my summery clothing when it’s under 75F, and also tend to wear even brighter colors and busier patterns. But I also put away my tall boots and some other “wintery feeling” types of pieces (like my tweedy skirts), even though I could realistically wear them 9 months of the year. Use light jackets (esp. blazers) as outerwear, which doubles as an indoor layer when needed, has been very useful; having at least one structured or woven item in an outfit can really up the “put together” factor.

This year I bought a pair of fine gauge, loose and waist surrendering, elbow sleeve sweaters which have been PERFECT for our usual summer weather of “warm but not hot” (these I can wear up to 75F), and definitely plan to do this again next year. Also bought my first linen items which I LOVE and plan to get more of next year (especially long sleeve blouses that I can roll up the sleeves with, genius!!). On those few truly hot days this year, my go-to has been a breezy woven hi-low skirt with a loose tank (and a denim jacket) or baggy denim short shorts with a breezy top. Silk blouses are also amazing for hot days, again the long sleeve type which can be rolled up.

Of course if I’m going to be doing something outdoors, then weather becomes even more of a factor. If I’m primarily outside rather than inside, then I’m generally going to show more skin so I don’t overheat but usually make sure to have a very very light layer on hand with which I can cover up. This year I started using more of my “normal” wardrobe for outdoor sportier events (especially jackets) which has really helped me not only feel more fab in those situations, but also to feel less “precious” about my clothing.

August 1, 2012 at 6:05 pm

Aida

Veteran

(Well that was a novel! I wanted to also add that many years ago my primary summer and year-round struggle was that I would sweat a lot which of course leaves lovely watery looking pits; I felt like I just couldn’t wear clothing in the summer time, or form fitting clothing, or go out, or do anything. I have been using Certain Dri (you had a post on it a while back) for years to combat that, and I HIGHLY recommend it. Entirely solves that issue, and I now can happily wear whatever I want!)

August 1, 2012 at 6:09 pm

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

I really enjoyed reading your musings, Aida :). I use Certain Dri too.

August 2, 2012 at 8:27 am

rute

Veteran

I have the same problem with the air conditioning! Outside is very hot but inside is so cold!
I always have with me a cardigan!

August 2, 2012 at 8:27 am

Joy

Veteran

I’m late posting but wanted to chime in. Angie, for many years I ran cold and heat didn’t bother me. Then menopause hit. Now it’s the opposite and I don’t mind the cold so much.
The challenges of a Kansas summer of high heat, humidity, and hot winds are considerable. It doesn’t cool off much at night and the wind stops so that the humidity makes you feel sticky. Example: at 8pm today it will still be 90F. We actually didn’t reach 101F today but 103F with humidity is forecast for tomorrow.
I wear as little as possible. Long pants and long sleeves are put away until at least September. When it’s really hot I stay away from knits of any kind. Even though I look best with a high neckline and sleeves, it’s scooped necks and sleeveless all the way.
I wear clamdiggers and a sleeveless, loose top or a shift dress most days.
This year most places are not keeping their indoor spaces cold with over air-conditioning, maybe to save on utilities. I will carry a cardi to the movies and such but have seldom had to use it this summer.

August 2, 2012 at 3:19 pm

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