A Naturalle Fashionista

summer style in natural fabrics

Some of the best advice for looking fabulous and feeling comfortable starts with fabric. Choosing breathable fabrics allows the slightest breeze to caress your skin, allows your heat to escape, and allows you to feel as cool as possible when the temperatures go up.

Natural fabrics also wick moisture away from your skin, dry quickly, and feel gentle on your skin. Plus you have the added benefit of knowing you are supporting the environment while you look fab.

Most of us quickly recognize cotton and linen as comfortable fabrics to wear in the heat, we sometimes forget about silk and bamboo, and less realize that tencel and modal are newer additions as man-made eco-friendly natural fibers. Fabric details follow, while another consideration to comfort and style is the garment shape. Many summer and resort fashions embrace a flowing style - which allows for air flow - skims the body rather than hugging it tight, and creates the impression of chic style even when you are feeling the heat. Combined, natural fibers and looser fitting styles, will help you feel as cool as possible when temperatures rise.

about the fibers

• cotton; derived from the cotton plant, is available in varied weights from lightest voile to heavy denim, is soft against the skin, and will not trap perspiration.
• linen; from the flax plant, repels dirt, doesn't fade and softens w wear & washing, is best in humid climates as the wrinkles will just fall out, and gives a classic impression, even when worn slightly wrinkled.
• silk; is harvested from silk worms, soft & strong in both raw and polished finishes, cool in summer and warm in winter, and many new fabrics are also washable.
• bamboo; yes -from the plant - it is a renewable resource, also has antimicrobial properties, is washable and feels butter soft.
• rayon or tencel;  is man made from naturally occurring cellulose, breathable and soft, drapes very well, plus is wrinkle resistant and easily washed.
• modal; is a bio-based textile, with the feel of microfiber it is less likely to fade or pill, and has a smooth finish and is cool to the touch.

All of these natural fibers provide maximum comfort in tropical climates or during hot flashes, while synthetic fibers don't breathe and can cause chafing and irritation (because synthetics can't move heat and moisture away from your body). The one exceptions is good exercise gear which has been specifically engineered to wick away moisture and provide flexibility.

Be more aware of the fabric choices you make when purchasing your new summer or travel wardrobe, and always look for styles which flatter your shape. It is possible to blend comfort and style, and have fun with colour, so that you always look and feel fabulous.