Hot Flash
As I write this, it’s currently 97 degrees in Nashville, but the humidity makes it feel 109. If you’re not in Nashville and want to know what that feels like, take a hot shower and immediately put your clothes on without drying off. It’s not just hot, it’s smothering!
It’s hard to get dressed on days like this. I want as little touching me as possible! Since I’m not interested in that nude life, I figured I’d share the best hot weather wardrobe tips I know for beating the heat!
The Bralette
…or should we call it bra-lite? The thought of a heavily padded, underwire bra on a hot day makes me think of a marshmallow on a wire hanger over a fire, and I’m the marshmallow! Try a bralette instead. Several come with or without padding and are no longer just for the A and B cups! My personal favorite is by True & Co. and goes to size 3X.
Slip Shorts
While we’re on the subject of underpinnings, don’t forget your slip shorts! Slip shorts are an underwear alternative that provide higher coverage under dresses and skirts so you can romp with your kids, safely bend over or feel more confident on windy days. They protect from thigh chaffing too! They may look like Spanx but these Skimmies from Jockey are compression-free. Also available boy short length.
Linen and Cotton Gauze
Love it or hate it, it doesn’t get much breezier than linen for a cooling, summer weight fabric. It feels refined and relaxed at the same time, maybe too relaxed since it tends to wrinkle practically by looking at it. I say let it go and don’t overthink it! Whether you’re wearing a linen dress, pants, or a blazer, linen is top when it comes to breathability. I love a linen tee, they drape nicely and feel a little lux. Always check your label for laundering instructions, linen is known to shrink!
Cotton gauze is becoming increasingly popular and it’s also a nicely textured, soft and lightweight fabric.
On left, Jcrew relaxed linen tee, $39.99 / Faherty “Dream” gauze tank, $39
Shorts?!
I know, shorts are not some grand, summer wardrobe revelation, but…I don’t like shorts. Mainly because I don’t love my legs, but as I try to embrace my own “body positive” mental game, but I have been wearing them more this summer. Mostly around the house and when walking Jagger, but when it’s this hot, all bets are off! As a tall girl I prefer a 7” inseam, but length comes down to personal preference and proportion. This cargo style by Supplies by Union Bay at Nordstrom Rack have a roll tab inseam so you can adjust the length where you feel comfortable. For only $19.97 they’re a risk worth taking!
The “I-Don’t-Want-Anything-Touching-Me” Dress
Dresses are by far my favorite thing to wear in the heat and humidity, preferably one that floats ever-so-lightly over the body and doesn’t cling. The key to finding a flattering, non-shapeless style is in the drape of the fabric. Linen, tech fabrics, cotton gauze, and anything with some Tencel (rayon) are all soft and drape in a flattering way.
From left to right: Karen Kane snake print dress at Bloomingdales $128 / “Presidio” dress by Athleta, $79.99. / “Leyla” dress by Xirena at Shopbop, $258.
Tech Joggers
If you need a casual pant option, I’m obsessed with these airy, stretch tech joggers from Old Navy. They’re moisture wicking, have built in UV protection, and are available in plus, tall, and petite sizes. For $39.99 you can buy all eight colors! So cute!
Knit Sneakers
I’m wearing sandals most summer days, but every now and then, especially if I’m working on set, I need a shoe with more support. Leather sneakers can be way too hot, so I love a knit option. A knit sneaker upper is comfortable and breathable, while allowing for a supportive sole and overall lightweight shoe.
Straw Hat
I LOVE a hat! (It may or may not be true that I was often called “Blossom” in middle school.) A hat can actually make your head warmer, that’s why we love them in the winter, but they’re also a chic accessory to keep your face shaded and cover up a sweaty mop of hair. Again, look for natural straw fibers to allow your head to breathe. Click here for a reminder on how to pack a hat for your summer vacay!
Nordstrom consistently has a solid selection of stylish hats at various price points. From left going clockwise: Rag & Bone ivory fedora, $250 / Janessa Leone “Valentine” hat, $250 / Treasure & Bond black straw hat, $49
Have some more hot tips? (Pun intended.) Please message me or share in the comments! Stay cool y’all! XO, Amanda