We’re getting into the hottest part of the summer, and you can’t afford to have the heat cost you a valuable first impression. Here are some tips on beating the heat.
Hot weather guidelines can be summed up with two words: clean and lightweight.
Clean – This means showered, well-groomed and dressed in stain-free clothing. You will perspire in the summer heat, and you need to be prepared. Use an antiperspirant deodorant and carry a clean handkerchief to wipe away any beads of sweat. Have a change of clothes on hand just in case you need to regroup.
Lightweight – Clothes made of breathable weaves in light natural fibers like cotton, linen and light wool blends in light colors will help keep you cool.
Best Summer Shirts
Short-Sleeve Polo: The polo shirt has become standard casual attire for men. They come in a large variety of colors, prints and patterns. Choose shirts that fit your style but don’t draw too much attention. Not all polos are 100-percent cotton; some have a small amount of synthetic fabrics that can trap heat and make you sweat more.
Long-Sleeve Dress Shirt: If it’s 90 degrees and you have no choice but to wear a dress shirt, select ones in light colors or lightly patterned fabric that shows off your individuality so you don’t blend in with a sea of white dress shirts. Not all 100-percent cotton shirts are alike; weaves and lightweights allow heat to escape from the body and keep you cool.
Rolling the Sleeves: A long-sleeve shirt rolled up to the mid-forearm is a very stylish look preferred by many over the short sleeve button-up. If you’re on an interview or just learning the office dress code, though, it’s best to keep it professional.
The Summer Jacket
Cotton: Strong and durable, cotton jackets help you stay cool and provide years of wear. Tropical weight wools are another hot weather alternative. They are a bit warmer and require professional cleaning.
Seersucker: A Southern summer tradition most commonly made from cotton in a striped pattern (blue, brown, gray), these jackets are incredibly breathable and allow air to move through with ease.
Linen: Made from a plant-based fiber that wicks away moisture and dissipates heat, linen fabrics are often rougher and wrinkle easily.
Pants
Cotton Chinos: These are made of a looser weave that allows more air to flow between the fabric and your legs. The fit of the chino plays a big part in keeping you cool. Chinos should always sit right at the waist and fit correctly; not too big, not too tight. Chinos can be worn without a break in the hem and are often shorter than dress pants.
Dress Pants: Tropical wools or high-end cotton weaves should be your fabric of choice for the summer months. They are lightweight and breathable. Cotton is usually less expensive, more durable, and found in more lively colors. However, cotton may not be the best style for your body type.
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3 Must-Haves in Summer Heat:
1) Handkerchief:
Keep your face dry and avoid a collection of dirty, smelly tissues in your pocket.
2) Undershirt:
Always wear a 100-percent cotton undershirt, no matter what type of shirt you’re wearing. A cotton undershirt protects the outer layer from sweat and fabric-staining antiperspirants.
3) Change of clothes: Although it requires a bit of forethought, bringing an extra set of clothing to change into can enable you to look your best as the day’s events unfold. There’s nothing like breaking up a hot day with a cool shower and then changing into a new set of clothing. You’ll be refreshed and reinvigorated.
