#Lightweight breathable fabrics

[tradeunofabrics]

In this blog, we delve into the world of breathable fabrics and introduce you to 8 incredible options that are designed to keep you sweat-free and comfortable, no matter the weather or activity. We discuss the unique features and benefits of each fabric, helping you make informed choices for your wardrobe. Whether you're looking for lightweight summer fabrics or moisture-wicking materials for active wear, we've got you covered. Stay cool, dry, and stylish with our selection of breathable fabrics.

[sturnellaneglecta]

aight i tried the Maxi Skirt for Summer look and im not a fan. shorts all the way. this is way too fookin warm

[metalheadsforblacklivesmatter]

Heat Intolerance

This disability pride month I'd like to talk about heat intolerance. Because honestly although it's not the first health issue that presented symptoms in my life. It was the first time I was like "I don't think my body works right".

And honestly given disability pride month is during one of the hottest months in the year. It seems fitting. Especially because there's a lot of disabilities and medications that cause it.

What is heat intolerance?

Simply speaking it's the inability for the body to regulate it's temperatures especially in hot settings to cool itself down.

Why is awareness important?

Because gaslighting people or worse not providing them a place to cool down just because you "feel fine" is extremely fucking dangerous.

What are the medicines that can cause heat intolerance?

Antihistamines (Allergy medications) . Decongestants (Sudafed or any medication that has the D at the end of it). Stimulants (ADHD medications. Steroids. Caffeine.) Beta-blockers (blood pressure medications). Overactive bladder treatment. Psychiatric medications (including but not limited to medications for depression and anxiety). Pain relievers. Antibiotics.

What medical conditions can cause heat intolerance?

EDS (Elhers-Danlos syndrome). Autism. ADHD. Migraines. Brain/spinal-cord injury. Sensory processing disorder. Chronic fatigue syndrome. Endocrin problems. POTS. Menopause. Hypothyroidism. Diabetes. Heart Disease. Multiple sclerosis. Mental health disorders.

What should I do if I suspect I have heat intolerance?

Reduce time outside during hot months. Keep your electrolytes up. Drink plenty of water. Stay out of the sun whenever possible if outside. Be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Clothes that are best worn for heat intolerance. Loose lightweight breathable fabrics. Natural fibers. Long sleeves that protect from sunburn as sunburns will increase your risk. Light clothes that reflect light. Wide brimmed hats that shade the face and neck.

Cool. So what are those symptoms I'm supposed you be looking for?

Headaches. Excessive fatigue. Mood changes. Muscle cramping or weakness. Nausea/ vomiting. Rapid heartbeat. Excessive sweating or not sweating at all.

When should I do to the doctor?

If you suspect you have heat intolerance you can go to your PCP to discuss what medications you may be on and what you can do about it. Otherwise, please go to the emergency room if you have symptoms of heat stroke.

This is good information and all but why are you making this post?

To raise awareness. Not just for the people that have it but weren't aware of what it was called. But for all of the idiots that tried to gaslight me when I was in school because I was like "I don't think this is normal. Every time we do our mile run outside I vomit all over the place but other kids aren't doing that."

Also because people always blame me for over heating if I wear long sleeves or pants. I always like to take notes from what people in the middle east wear because they literally live in the excessive heat and spend long hours in the excessive heat. Often in clothing that covers most of their body. They've gotta know what they're doing, right?

I have some type of xenophobic comment about why people from the middle east cover up

Shut the fuck up 😊

-fae

[zumaira]

Gul Ahmed Fresh Summer Lawn Dresses Collection 2023

[magazinepk]

Gul Ahmed Fresh Summer Lawn Dresses Collection 2023

[sultaul20]

Sports T-Shirts Get Comfortable Stylish Find your perfect T-shirt for sports & shop now!

[remaxx111]

Stay Cool and Refreshed with Remaxx Cooling Towels - The Ultimate Summer Essential.

Remaxx Cooling Towels are the perfect solution for hot summer days, workouts, and outdoor activities. Our towels are made with premium-quality, breathable fabric that is designed to instantly cool you down when wet. The towels are lightweight, portable, and come in a variety of colors and sizes to fit your style and needs. Simply wet the towel with water, wring it out, and place it around your neck or on your forehead for instant relief. Keep cool and comfortable with Remaxx Cooling Towels.

[tarotwithavi]

How to dress according to your venus sign

Can also be applied for Rising and mid heaven.

For entertainment purposes only!

Aries venus

Bold. you should embrace bold and adventurous styles that reflect your fiery and passionate nature. Opt for vibrant, eye-catching colors like red, orange, and hot pink to showcase your enthusiasm and energy. Choose clothing that highlights your individuality, such as unique statement pieces and daring accessories. Aries Venus individuals often enjoy a sporty, active lifestyle, so incorporate athleisure elements into your wardrobe, like sneakers or activewear-inspired outfits. Show off your confident and independent spirit with edgy cuts and styles, like asymmetrical hemlines or bold patterns. Don't be afraid to experiment with fashion and be the trendsetter in your group.

Taurus venus

Taurus venus is for luxurious, earthy, and sensuous attire. Begin with soft, tactile fabrics like silk, velvet, or cashmere in earthy tones such as deep greens, browns, and soft pinks. Your style should prioritize comfort and quality, so invest in well-fitted, timeless pieces like tailored blazers, flowy maxi dresses, or high-waisted trousers. Accessories should be elegant and understated, favoring natural gemstones like emeralds and rose quartz. Shoes should be both stylish and comfortable, such as leather ankle boots or suede loafers. Hair and makeup should be natural and effortless, with loose waves or soft curls and a nude or earth-toned palette. Show off that neck gurlll.

Gemini Venus

you should embrace versatility and a playful sense of style. Gemini is ruled by Mercury, making communication and adaptability key. Opt for outfits that allow you to mix and match, like a wardrobe full of separates, bright colors, and patterns. Experiment with various accessories to express your ever-changing tastes. Consider wearing clothing that incorporates elements of duality or contrast, such as asymmetrical designs or reversible pieces. Gemini is an air sign, so lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and silk can be your best friend. Don't forget to change up your style regularly to keep things interesting, as Venus in Gemini individuals thrive on variety and novelty in fashion.

Cancer Venus

You should embrace a style that reflects your emotional and nurturing nature. For example, soft, flowing fabrics in gentle, watery colors like seafoam green, silver, and pastel blues that soothe your sensitive spirit. Incorporate vintage or nostalgic elements into your wardrobe. Embrace feminine, figure-flattering silhouettes that accentuate your curves and emphasize your nurturing qualities. Jewelry with moonstone, pearls, and other iridescent gems complements your lunar sensibilities. Wearcozy, comfortable clothing that exudes warmth and comfort, like oversized sweaters and cardigans. Incorporate subtle touches of sea-inspired accessories, such as seashell-shaped pendants or bracelets.

Leo venus

Channel your inner confidence and glamor. Choose bold and attention-grabbing colors like fiery reds, golds, and vibrant purples. Like luxurious fabrics that exude regality, such as silk or velvet. Incorporate statement pieces like a dramatic, floor-length gown or a tailored suit with a dramatic flair. Don't shy away from sequins, metallics, or animal prints. Accessorize with bold and extravagant jewelry, such as statement necklaces or oversized earrings, and make sure your hair is styled to perfection, whether it's flowing locks or a bold updo. Animal prints and gold jewellery were made for leo venus.

Virgo Venus

Go for clean, practical, and detail-oriented fashion choices. Embrace earthy tones such as muted greens, browns, and neutrals, which resonate with Virgo's grounded nature. Pay attention to the smallest details in your outfit, like perfectly tailored clothing and well-coordinated accessories. Choose modest, well-fitted pieces that emphasize your natural beauty and avoid anything overly flashy or extravagant. Your style should exude professionalism and functionality, so consider incorporating classic pieces like tailored blazers, pencil skirts, and crisp white shirts. Also go for comfortable yet stylish footwear, and keep your hair and makeup understated, emphasizing a natural and polished look. Adding a hint of vintage charm or retro-inspired pieces can also align with Venus in Virgo's appreciation for the past.

Libra Venus

You should embrace elegance and harmony in your attire. Choose clothing that embodies balance and refined taste, such as well-tailored suits or dresses in soft, pastel colors or shades of pink, which resonate with Venus's love for beauty. Opt for outfits with clean lines and symmetrical patterns, as they appeal to Libra's sense of equilibrium. Accessories like tasteful jewelry, scarves, and belts can enhance your look, adding a touch of sophistication. Keep your hair and makeup balanced and graceful, avoiding overly bold or dramatic styles. Ultimately, aim for an ensemble that exudes charm, grace, and a sense of unity to align with the traits associated with Venus in Libra.

Scorpio Venus

Go for dark, intense colors like deep burgundy, black, or dark purple to exude passion and depth. Choose clothing that highlights your curves and adds an element of intrigue, such as form-fitting dresses, lacy lingerie, or leather accents. Incorporate accessories like statement jewelry with mystical or occult symbolism, and don't shy away from bold makeup with smoky eyes and deep, rich lip colors. Embrace fabrics like silk and velvet for their sensuality, and let your clothing choices reveal just enough skin to leave an air of mystery.

Sagittarius Venus

You should go for bold and vibrant colors that reflect your love for exploration and spontaneity. Choose comfortable, travel-friendly outfits that allow you to move freely. Consider loose-fitting bohemian dresses, wide-legged pants, and flowy tops for a laid-back yet stylish look. Accessorize with statement pieces like oversized sunglasses, feathered jewelry, or colorful scarves to showcase your eclectic taste. Footwear should be practical yet fashionable, such as comfy sandals or unique, eye-catching boots..

Capricorn Venus

You should opt for a classic and sophisticated style that exudes professionalism and ambition. Choose well-tailored, timeless pieces such as tailored blazers, pencil skirts, and crisp white shirts. Earthy and muted colors like black, navy, gray, and olive green are ideal, as they convey a sense of seriousness and authority. Invest in high-quality, durable materials like wool and leather. Accessories should be understated but elegant, such as a simple pearl necklace or a quality leather handbag. Practicality and functionality are key, so go for comfortable yet stylish shoes like classic pumps or ankle boots.

Aquarius Venus

Embody a unique and futuristic style that reflects your individuality and love for unconventional beauty. Go for clothing that incorporates metallic accents, electric blues, and vibrant purples, as these colors resonate with Aquarius energy. Experiment with asymmetrical and avant-garde designs, such as one-shoulder tops or geometric patterns. Statement accessories like chunky silver jewelry, oversized sunglasses, and tech-inspired pieces can add a touch of eccentricity to your look.

Pisces Venus

Embrace a dreamy and romantic style. Opt for flowing, ethereal fabrics like chiffon or silk in soft, oceanic colors like seafoam green, lavender, or aqua. Incorporate loose-fitting and comfortable clothing that allows you to move gracefully. Accessorize with subtle, mystical jewelry such as seashell necklaces, pearl earrings, or pieces featuring fish motifs, as Pisces is associated with the fish symbol. Don't shy away from pastel hues, and consider outfits with a touch of shimmer or iridescence to capture the Pisces love for fantasy and illusion. Flowing maxi dresses, bohemian-inspired attire, or anything reminiscent of a mermaid's allure will resonate.

Let me know your thoughts

[creativepromptsforwriting]

what should people wear in a desert? I have been stuck on this for ages 😞.

There are many tour guides on the internet that give you lists on what the best options for a trip through the desert are.

What to wear in a desert

long sleeves and long pant legs - even if it's hot, direct sunlight is never the best option, cover your shoulders and neck at all times

loose fitting clothes to allow air circulation

lightweight layers - it can get cold in the desert, so a lightweight jacket and more than one layer can come in handy

breathable fabrics - linen, cotton, merino wool

headpieces - sunstrokes are no joke, don't forget your neck

fabrics that shield you from UV light

light colours - easier with the sun, even though washing the sand out of it, is a bitch

sunglasses to shield your eyes

good walking shoes, like sneakers that are breathable, but protect your feet from the hot sand and rocks and keep you warm at night

actual hiking boots if you intend to walk around a lot

scarves to protect yourself from the sand

Other important items:

drinks

food

sunscreen

lip balms and cremes (dry desert air)

wet wipes, because everything is full of dust

(and things to save yourself of course)

And from experience, it really does get chilly as soon as the sun goes down. And the sand goes absolutely everywhere and it stains. I have a pair of shoes that is still tainted red from a trip to the desert from four years ago.

- Jana

[handweavers]

i sew most of my own clothes and want to share more about that on here. my primary reasons behind sewing my own garments come from issues finding clothes in my size that accommodate my body shape as well as various health issues that require my clothes to be loose fitting and made from breathable fibers. for reference i wear a us size 20

my sewing is mostly self taught, although my nan showed me how to use a sewing machine as a kid. while i have a sewing machine, i prefer to handsew my clothes with a trusty backstitch and use hand-finishing techniques. i work mostly with 100% cotton thread that i coat in beeswax for better stitching and longevity, and fibers like cotton and linen. linen tends to look rumpled when worn but i don't mind.

both items in the top photos were fully handstitched and handfinished. in the top photos: my shirt is adapted from the all well box top and sewn in a lightweight cotton-linen blend. the pants are stylearc's ethel pants in a midweight linen that i embroidered around the knees (not pictured) and they have inseam pockets. both fabrics were bought at spotlight in malaysia.

bottom photos: the shirt is another box top adaptation (i pieced scraps of this fabric together to make the shirt, hence the seam at the front and more seams along the sides) and the pants are readytosew's pleat pants inspired by traditional thai fisherman's pants. i did some sashiko embroidery on the butt pockets of these. both are in a black cotton-linen blend, i can't remember where i got it but i know it was some online fabric store in canada. i've worn the pants more than the shirt so the black dye has faded more from it, but i like that when they're worn together it looks like a jumpsuit. i machine sewed both of these but finished them by hand.

[wonnieaura]

THE ULTIMATE SUMMER GLOW UP GUIDE

Wanna glow up this summer? Here are some few tips I’ve put down for y’all to help everyone of y’all have the best summer ever. You’re welcome girlies 🥹💗🫶🏻

Skincare

1. Hydration

- Drink plenty of water.

- Use hydrating serums and moisturizers.

- Apply a hydrating mask weekly.

2. Sun Protection

- Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily.

- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.

- Wear protective clothing and hats.

3. Cleansing

- Double cleanse at night.

- Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser.

- Exfoliate 1-2 times a week.

4. Targeted Treatments

- Use vitamin C serum in the morning.

- Apply retinoids at night (if not too sensitive).

- Incorporate a hyaluronic acid serum.

Haircare

1. Hydration and Protection

- Use a leave-in conditioner.

- Apply a heat protectant before styling.

- Wear hats or use UV protection sprays.

2. Styling

- Embrace natural textures.

- Avoid excessive heat styling.

- Use lightweight, non-greasy products.

3. Maintenance

- Get regular trims.

- Deep condition weekly.

- Use a clarifying shampoo once a month.

Nutrition

1. Hydration

- Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.

- Consume water-rich foods (fruits and vegetables).

- Limit caffeine and alcohol intake.

2. Balanced Diet

- Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

- Incorporate lean proteins and whole grains.

- Limit processed foods and sugars.

3. Supplements

- Consider taking a multivitamin.

- Use omega-3 supplements.

- Incorporate probiotics for gut health.

Fitness

1. Cardio

- Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio per week.

- Try activities like swimming, running, or cycling.

- Include interval training for variety.

2. Strength Training

- Do strength training exercises 2-3 times a week.

- Focus on all major muscle groups.

- Incorporate bodyweight exercises like squats and push-ups.

3. Flexibility

- Stretch daily or after workouts.

- Consider yoga or Pilates classes.

- Focus on full-body stretches.

Mental Wellbeing

1. Mindfulness

- Practice meditation or deep breathing exercises.

- Keep a journal for reflection.

- Spend time in nature.

2. Stress Management

- Engage in hobbies or activities you enjoy.

- Set aside time for relaxation.

- Connect with friends and family.

3. Sleep

- Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

- Establish a regular sleep schedule.

- Create a calming bedtime routine.

Fashion

1. Wardrobe Essentials

- Invest in versatile summer pieces (e.g., sundresses, shorts).

- Choose breathable fabrics like cotton and linen.

- Opt for light and bright colors.

2. Accessories

- Use statement sunglasses and hats.

- Incorporate light scarves and jewelry.

- Carry a stylish yet functional bag.

3. Footwear

- Wear comfortable yet stylish sandals.

- Opt for breathable sneakers.

- Ensure proper foot care with pedicures.

[tradeunofabrics]

Discover the ultimate guide to staying cool and stylish this summer with 9 breathable fabrics. From lightweight cotton to breezy linen, explore the perfect choices for a comfortable and fashionable summer wardrobe.

[marzipanandminutiae]

Friend Marzi, why do we have an inclination to believe that all historical clothing was very heavy? Fabrics varied in lightness and for the very heat of summer for example an all-silk or all-muslin ensemble could be made very light and breathable if necessary, even foregoing implements like boning, etc. Like, there are ways to not be dragging your skirts around.

Working people and people with active hobbies were already wearing fewer layers anyway, so we shouldn't expect them to be encumbered. Why do we anyway?

Friend Tumblr User Chasingtheskyline! Hello!

(This answer will focus primarily on conventionally feminine clothing, since that's my area of expertise. Just to disclaim.)

I think it's because of the layering, really. And the idea that, as you touched on, Only Rich People Wore All That (not so much- the basic makeup of chemise/combinations, maybe drawers post-1820s, corset/stays, at least one petticoat, skirt, bodice for women was pretty consistent across most of the social ladder during the 18th and 19th centuries at least) so of COURSE it's heavy and impractical. And as we all know, rich people didn't have lives or do things! They just lounged around being rich and not moving! </s>

We're used to one layer of our mostly-polyester clothing being extremely warming in summer because. It's polyester. Breathability is not something people think about much nowadays, since we're so used to just exposing as much skin as possible to cool down. Ergo, the idea that it's layers of lightweight fabric doesn't really occur to people, I think.

Another element, I think, may be that some of these people have carried reproduction historical garments but never worn them. Or weighed them in a heap on a scale- yes, really -and never taken into account the weight distribution when they're on a body. I've owned garments that were a bear to carry, but perfectly comfortable to wear.

Also, you know. We've long had a vested interest in making our own garments seem like The Best Most Advanced Garments. You can find articles from as early as the 1920s decrying Victorian "trailing skirts and trailing hair" as unhygienic and uncomfortable Never mind that the ADULTS saying this would have known full well that shorter skirts were commonplace for situations where Excessive Dirt would be present and grown women wore their hair up. (Also, you know. Unless you're licking your hem, your skirts cannot get you sick.)

Either you're getting only the experiences of women who hated what they wore before- which would somehow be the same fashion writers who once declared that the gowns of 1915 were the best, or 1910, or 1905 -or they had a vested interest in selling something to the public: in this case, the hottest, newest clothes (and hairstyles that required more regular trips to the hairdresser than long hair pinned up). Of course you get those writers calling earlier clothing heavy- they're trying to get people to buy rayon flapper dresses!

Now, does that mean that nobody in history found their clothing heavy? Of course not. One of Amelia Bloomer's key complaints about the fashions of the 1840s and early 50s was the many layers of petticoats women often wore to create the fashionable skirt shape- and while I'm often loath to take dress reformers as sole arbiters of women's opinion, the invention of the cage crinoline/hoop skirt was widely hailed as a marvel for enabling big skirts with much less weight.

But you're so right that this perception is extremely exaggerated nowadays. I do my best to fight it- had this conversation with a colleague today, as I was wearing a long-sleeved blouse of cotton voile and a long cotton skirt to work in 80-degree (F) weather -but. Well. It DOES get frustrating at times.

[lichilly]

"Hello there, friend."

𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀🌞⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒

I've been playing around with the idea of Jack being the leader of the Cloudy Town cult!

The town is very picturesque and vibrant, with colorful houses, well-kept gardens, and friendly residents. The streets are always clean, and theres a perpetual atmosphere of celebration!

The Sun is revered as a life-giving deity, and to maintain the sun’s favor, periodic sacrifices are made—animals, and in most extreme cases, humans. The symbol of the Sun is a recurring motif in Cloudy Town. found on buildings, clothes, decorations, and just about everything!

Jack is a very well-loved and respected figure in Cloudy Town. He has a special connection to the Sun, often leading prayers, festivals, sacrifices, and much more!

Every morning at sunrise, Jack and the townspeople gather in the central plaza to perform a morning prayer and chant, welcoming the Sun's rise. This helps show their gratitude for the Sun's light and warmth, reinforcing their devotion while also bringing the community together in unity. At sunset, they will gather in the plaza again to pray for the Sun's return, expressing hope and trust in the Sun's cyclical nature, while also strengthening faith.

Once a month, Jack will lead a blessing ceremony, where he anoints participants with a mixture of sunflower oil and herbs under the noon sun. This purifies and bless those in need, ensuring good health and fertility.

Summer Solstice is a beloved celebration for the townsfolk. A special prayer is said at sunrise, kicking off the day with positive energy and high sprits for the special day to come. A grand feast is held at high noon, featuring grilled vegtables, fruits, and meats cooked over open flames to honor the Sun. Dishes are often infused with citrus falvors and herbs lke basil and thyme. Sun-shaped breads and cakes decorated with yellow and orange fruits are served as well, courtesy of Rory's bakery.

The kids of Cloudy Town are welcomed to join in activites like creating sun-inspired crafts and decorations. Sun masks are especially popular, created out of paper plates and decorated with markers and paint to look like the Sun.

As sunset during Summer Solstice, the townsfolk parktake in a fire dance around a large bonfire. Music is played, consiting of joyful singing and instruments. At the end of the fire dance, families will bring offerings such as wreaths, floral arrangments, and sun symbols and throw them in the fire. The smoke that billows from the bonfire will carry the offerings up the sky for the Sun to recieve.

Instead of clown costumes, the people in Cloudy Town wear lightweight, breathable fabrics like dresses, blouses, skirts, and tunics with loose-fitting trousers or shorts, which are more suitable for the sunny weather. The clothes are decorated in sun motifs, often embroidered with yellow stiching that creates beautiful sun rays and abstract swirls across the fabric. Everyone wears a sun pendant around their neck, and are often used during prayers to help feel more connected to the Sun.

In the image above you can see Jack wearing his ritual clothes—a long golden robe with a sun pendant clasping it all together. During rituals, everyone involved wears a sun-themed mask. Special rituals are held at the hidden Sun Temple in the woods by Cloudy Town and are either held at sunrise or sunset. These rituals are usually where human sacrifices are made.

The MC is on a roadtrip with their friends Shaun, Nick, and boyfriend Ian, when their van breaks down a mile or two away from Cloudy Town. With no other option and no cell service, they start to walk in search of a nearby town. After hours of walking, they stumble across Cloudy Town and are quickly welcomed with open arms and warm smiles. The group found the town eerie, far too perfect and welcoming, and is set on leaving as soon as they can. Jack assures the group that he'll get their van fixed promptly and invites them to stay in town for the night. Upon accepting his offer, Jack quickly takes a warm liking to the MC, often making subtle, flatttering remarks about the MC's radiant energy, comparing it to the Sun's radiance.

There still a lot I'm thinking over when it comes to this AU! Some of this info may change with time, but this is the main brain dumb I'm mulling over. I hope you enjoy it!

𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀🌞⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒

BLOOD VER. UNDER CUT

[portraitoftheoddity]

Beginner Hiking Guide Part Three: What to Wear Hiking

Adequate and appropriate attire while hiking can make a big difference in your mobility, comfort, and even survival. Don’t worry about fashion -- nobody on the trail cares if you look good, and feeling good is far more important. Plus, you don’t want to wear anything that you don’t mind getting dirty, since you’re going to get sweaty and potentially dusty, muddy, etc. Focus on functional clothing for the activity you’re engaging in! 

Comfort & Flexibility

You’re going to be moving a lot, so make sure you’re wearing clothes that you can move in! You’ll want clothes that fit comfortably and are sturdy enough that they won’t tear like tissue paper if you take a tumble, but that are stretchy and flexible enough that you don’t feel limited in your movements. Avoid anything that’s going to pinch or chafe.

If you don’t have hiking-specific clothes -- which, if you’re just getting started, you probably don’t -- don’t worry! Odds are there’s something in your closet that will work fine. A lot of non-cotton athleticwear is perfectly good for hiking -- I’ve used my gym leggings and workout shirt on the trail. The key is finding something that uses the right fabrics:

Fabrics

Good: Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon, as well as merino wool, are great for hiking. These fabrics are good at wicking moisture away from your body -- a key quality in base layers, or any fabric that touches your skin. You’re going to work up a sweat, so you want fabrics that will wick that sweat away and allow it to evaporate, rather than trapping it against your skin so you get clammy and chilled. Anything described as “quick dry” is going to be a good option. For socks, I always opt for wool. 

Bad: Cotton of any kind, including denim. Cotton is like a sponge and will absorb moisture and stay wet. You know how when you do laundry, your jeans are often still damp after the rest of your clothes have dried? Jeans will also hold on to moisture from sweat or from wet trail conditions, chilling you on a long hike; a lot of hypothermia cases in backcountry are attributed to cotton clothing. So unless you’re doing a very short, easy hike in optimal weather conditions, avoid cottons. 

Dress for the Conditions

I wrote in a previous segment about the importance of knowing the forecast for your hike; make sure you dress appropriately for the hike you’re undertaking, in the conditions you’re undertaking it in!

Hot weather: Wear light-weight moisture-wicking clothes that won’t trap sweat against your body and that will let you keep cool. If you have longer hair, bring something to tie it up/back to keep sweaty hair out of your face.

Sunny weather: If it’s sunny and you’re going to be out in direct light, consider a lightweight outer layer to protect yourself from the sun. A hat with a wide brim is also a good option, and definitely bring sunglasses!

Wet weather: If it looks like there might be rain, make sure you have clothing on that will dry quickly, and a rain shell/rain jacket -- something lightweight and breathable. Also consider packing an extra pair of socks (because nothing is worse than hiking in wet socks) and an extra warm dry layer since you’re more likely to get chilled when you’re wet. 

Cold weather: Layer up! Make sure you are dressed warmly, and pack one more layer than you think you’re going to need. My dad always says, “If you wore all your layers, you didn’t pack enough layers.” (more on layers below). Also be sure to have a hat that fully covers your ears, a scarf or buff or other means of keeping your face and neck warm, gloves/mittens, and warm wool socks.

While you will probably be pretty warm from exertion while you’re hiking, you’ll find yourself cooling down quickly when you stop for breaks-- or if you have to stop due to an injury or other problem. Always pack for the coldest you might get. (On a longer, more remote hike, this should include ‘how cold I’ll get if I get lost and spend the night outside.’)

How to Layer for Warmth:

Underwear: Synthetic, moisture-wicking, and comfortable. If you have breasts, make sure you have adequate support. I’m a fan of high-impact sports bras and long boxer briefs to avoid chafing/riding up.

Base Layer: Wear a top in a moisture-wicking fabric (pretty much any synthetic workout shirt will do!); if it’s mild enough you don’t need multiple bottom layers, opt for quick-dry pants or athletic leggings and you’re probably good there. If it’s cold, consider wearing non-cotton leggings or long underwear as an insulating layer under a pair of pants -- if you’re like me and slip and fall on your ass a lot, your cold wet butt will thank you.

Mid Layer: This is your insulating layer that traps in heat. In warm or mild temperatures, sticking a light jacket or hoodie in your pack for if you need it is fine, but if temps are dipping colder, bulk up your mid layer(s). I usually wear a fleece jacket and then an insulated puff jacket over it when I hike in winter. You may also consider warmer pants (I have fleece-lined joggers for when it’s REALLY cold).

Outer Layer: If base layers keep away the moisture from your skin, and mid layers trap in heat, your outer layer is preventing heat loss and moisture from everything else. Windbreakers and rain shells can keep high winds from biting through your other layers and stealing away body heat, and keep rain from soaking you through and similarly putting you at risk for hypothermia.

Will you need all these layers on a hike? Probably not! In the middle of summer at low elevations, I hike in base layers and throw a rain shell in my pack and I’m pretty much good. But in winter, I’ve had up to 5 layers. So it will depend on the conditions.

Also, be ready to take off and add layers throughout your hike. I usually shed a layer within the first half mile of a hike as I get warmed up, but will often put layers back on when I reach summit, or am taking a snack break. Dropping layers when necessary will prevent you from sweating too much (soaking your clothes and dehydrating you).

Footwear:

Perhaps the most important item in your hiking ensemble is your footwear. Proper shoes can make or break a hike. Or a leg, for that matter. 

Hiking boots are thusly named because, well, they’re good for hiking. You want footwear that:

is sturdy

has good grip/traction

keeps you comfortable by cushioning, supporting, and protecting your foot. 

Good: Hiking boots. Trail/hiking shoes. Hiking sandals, weather permitting. Maybe sneakers, on a really flat and easy trail, though I don’t recommend them for more rugged trails.

Bad: Basically everything else. Ballet flats, flip flops, crocs, converse, etc. Anything that pinches or hurts your feet after a while. Any brand new shoes you’ve never worn or broken in. 

Now admittedly, a good pair of hiking boots can be expensive. But if you’re going to invest in anything to get started while hiking, I beg you to invest in a comfortable pair of hiking boots/shoes. And practice walking in them and breaking them in before you hit the trail -- you will often find that the experience of walking uphill in a particular pair of shoes feels very different from walking in them on flat terrain. 

Additional clothing notes:

Long pants vs. Shorts. I personally always hike in long pants, though I see plenty of people hiking in shorts in summer. I recommend researching trail conditions, the local ecology, and knowing your own heat tolerance. Long pants might not let you cool off like shorts, but they do protect your legs from sun exposure, ticks and other insect bites, and scratches and scrapes from brambles or rocks.

Socks. I highly recommend wool socks for hiking, year-round. Also, make sure that your socks fit well; loose, baggy socks are more likely to slip around in your shoe and cause blisters, along with socks that are shorter than the ankle of your shoe.

Jewelry. In addition to jewelry potentially catching and tangling on things, there’s the risk of it getting lost and being near impossible to find. I recommend you don’t wear or bring anything overly precious to you while hiking. That includes clothes you really really love, because you will get gross.

Binders. If you wear a binder, consider not wearing it while hiking, or wear a binder a size up from your usual. You will know your body and limitations best, but as a matter of safety you don't want your breathing restricted or to risk overheating, and it is widely recommended not to bind while engaging in strenuous activity.

In Summary:

Dress comfortably for activity

Avoid cotton ([Edna Mode voice: NO JEANS!]) and stick to synthetics that will wick away moisture and dry fast

Factor in weather and trail conditions into your clothing choices

Layers are your friend (and pack a spare layer just in case)

Get yourself some decent hiking shoes that won’t fall apart, slip and skid, or leave your feet blistered and hurting

Don't worry about looking stylish; just stay safe, comfortable, and have fun!

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[mayakern]

how are viscose shirts for hot weather? are they more breathable than cotton?

this is not something i can easily quantify, as cotton is a fiber and can be woven or knitted into many types of fabrics, some of which are more breathable than others.

for me personally, i really enjoy wearing the viscose in the summer because it’s so lightweight and cool-feeling, but i cannot predict what you will and won’t find breathable. i’ve had people tell us our previous polyester button shirts were super nice and lightweight and breathable, and had other people say they were stifling and too hot. 🤷‍♀️

anyway if anyone else wants to add in their two cents go ahead!