Too hot to handle? How to survive sweltering days in style
We’re already feeling the heat, and unfortunately, things are only expected to get hotter with El Niño on the horizon. You’d think living in a tropical country would have prepared us for this, but no matter how many summers we’ve survived, having our clothes stick to our skin, hair cling to our necks, and makeup melt before lunchtime never gets any more pleasant.
While we can’t do much about the weather, we can certainly have a little fun dressing for it. And no, that doesn’t mean resigning ourselves to the same old sando and shorts every day. From clever styling tricks to accessories that deserve a place in your bag, here’s how to survive the sweltering days ahead without sacrificing style.
Let your clothes breathe
When the weather calls for wearing as little as possible, cotton and linen are your best friends. Look for relaxed silhouettes that allow air to circulate, preferably with enough personality that you don’t have to rely on layers to make an outfit interesting.
Instead of reaching for your usual plain sando, try one with unexpected details. Ziv Rei Alexi’s piece, for example, features softly gathered fabric and an oversized floral embellishment at the neckline. Available at Qurio Studios, which carries exclusive designs, it’s the kind of top that makes even a simple pair of trousers or shorts feel like a proper outfit.
Get your hair off your neck
Few things are more irritating than having your hair stick to your neck on a humid day. A claw clip is perhaps the easiest way to get it out of the way without ruining a fresh blowout or flattening your curls. Unlike hair ties, it’s also less likely to leave those annoying creases.
Quality matters, though. As someone with thick, heavy hair, I’ve learned that not every clip can hold everything securely. Look for a strong spring and a good grip, so you’re not constantly readjusting it.
And here’s a tip I wish I’d discovered sooner: flat claw clips. Traditional ones tend to dig into your scalp when you lean back, whether you’re lying down in Pilates, doing yoga, or resting your head against a car seat. Flat versions sit closer to your head, making them much more comfortable.
Bring your own shades
A good pair of sunglasses is practically a necessity when the sun is this unforgiving. And beyond their practical purpose, they’re one of the easiest ways to give even the simplest outfit a little more personality.
For something with a little more character, Sunnies Studios’ Paloma and Yara sunglasses are worth checking out. With their thick frames, oversized shapes, and ‘70s-inspired silhouettes, they have that very city-chic look that feels both retro and current.
I particularly love how substantial they feel. There’s a satisfying weight to the frames that makes them feel sturdy and well-made. Pair them with a plain white shirt, linen trousers, or a simple tank, and you’ve already done most of the styling. They’re the kind of sunglasses you’ll want to wear even when you’re not trying to hide from the sun.
A little fan service
Portable electric fans are great, but can we admit they’re not always the cutest accessories? Some are so loud you’d think there was a tiny airplane engine running beside you. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably forgotten to charge yours, leaving you with a rather useless piece of plastic when you need it most.
I’m convinced the good old folding fan deserves a comeback. No batteries, no charging, and plenty of opportunities to have fun with prints and colors. Take the Pucci Marmo Print fan, with its signature swirling patterns in shades of pink. It’s as much a fashion accessory as it is a way to cool yourself down. It’s practically a fashion accessory in its own right.
I wouldn’t be surprised if folding fans became the next accessory everyone starts carrying around. After all, there’s something rather chic about dramatically whipping one open when the heat gets a little too much.
Keep your makeup light
As much as I love a full beat, wearing a full face of makeup in this weather can feel like a decision you’ll regret by lunchtime. Between the sweat, humidity, and inevitable oiliness, keeping everything in place becomes a challenge.
Consider swapping heavy foundation for a lightweight skin tint or BB cream that evens out your complexion without covering it completely. Apply concealer only where you need extra coverage, and try cream or liquid blush for a fresh flush without piling on powder.
For makeup that needs to survive a commute, waterproof mascara and a good setting spray are worth having. Keep blotting papers handy, too. You don’t have to give up your usual routine entirely, but a lighter hand can make getting through the day much more comfortable.
A little spritz goes a long way
There’s something especially satisfying about pulling a facial mist out of your bag when you’ve been out in the heat. It won’t bring the temperature down, but a few spritzes can feel like a welcome little break from the humidity.
Summer Fridays’ Jet Lag Skin Soothing Hydration Mist is a lovely one to keep in your purse. Its ultra-fine spray feels refreshing, while ingredients like glycerin, cucumber extract, and ceramides help hydrate and soothe the skin. It leaves a dewy finish without feeling heavy and can be used over makeup for a quick midday refresh.
It may not be air-conditioning, but when you’ve barely stepped outside and already wish you were back indoors, you’ll appreciate having it within reach.
