My first summer in Chicago. Exciting and also very curious as to how bad it could get. The National Weather Service (NWS) recently issued a heat advisory in Chicago that’ll go into effect on Tuesday, June 14 at 12:00pm all the way through Wednesday, June 15th at 8:00pm. Be prepared for boiling temperatures they say with a peak index between 105 and 109 degrees. Should I stay home or do I want to go out? If so, I still do want to look fashionably comfortable and I’m sure you want that too! Dressing appropriately offers advantages in any situation. The appropriate attire is essential for any major meeting, wedding, party, or simply summer.

With mercury rising, you’ll want to take precautions to avoid overheating, which is something we’ll have to worry about more and more as the summer progresses.

Here are the best fashion tips for dealing with the scorching heat:

1. Bring out the hats – You’ll feel hotter as your body absorbs more sun. While you could take an umbrella with you, a more practical and hands-free option is to wear a hat. Switch it up with the good ole bucket hat. The bucket hat is not DEAD! It is still in trend. Spotted Ms Charlette on a beach in a lilac colored bucket hat with cute floral motifs.

2. Wear breathable and lightweight fabrics – Heavier textiles are more densely woven, trapping heat and restricting airflow, which is a concern because airflow is what transports heat energy from our bodies. When you sweat and it evaporates, the heat from your body is transferred to the breeze. However, in order for sweat to do its job, airflow is required so that evaporation can transpire.

Madras fabric is typically made of cotton and has a light, open weave, making it ideal for the summer. Seersucker is also a smart choice because the fabrics unique rippling prevents it from sticking to the skin, enabling air to circulate. Fabrics made of linen and hemp are also more loosely woven, making them more breathable. 

3. Choose light colors instead of dark or black – The darker your clothes are, the more light they will absorb and turn into heat. Lighter tones, on the other hand, reflect that energy away. Long story short, wear white clothes to keep cool.

4. Keep it loose on the silhouette– Clothes that fit close to the body might be your vibe, but it’s not the best option for staying cool in the heat. Slim-fitting clothes don’t allow air to flow as much as loose clothing. They can also absorb your sweat, leaving you walking around with damp clothes. Wider silhouettes don’t cling to the skin as easily, allowing room for air to pass over the skin.

5. Say no to sleeves! – This is also a good method to keep cool by flaunting your arms. Show them off gurl! You are not required to wear long sleeve tops that cover your entire body. For a more summery style, try a sleeveless vest or dress, or even simply a short-sleeved shirt. You should maintain a sophisticated appearance without overheating. You can always protect yourself from the sun by wearing a small scarf over your shoulders and arms. Isabelle Gougeinheim offers great lightweight scarves! Check her out @isabellegougenheim