Is Black a Summer Color?

Unless you’re a New Yorker who thinks that black is a year round color, you’ll probably think that the answer to this question is an obvious no. The color myth goes something like this: black is supposed to absorb heat, making you hot, and thus not a great color to wear in the summer. Yes it’s sort of true. But when it comes to staying cool in the summer time, you really should be more concerned about what kind of fabric your wearing, rather than the color of your outfit. So which fabric should you pick then? Hint: it’s got to be something breathable.

1. Cotton
The king of fabrics that works well in pretty much any weather. Cotton is made from natural fibers that allow air to move more freely between the fabric, and hence better at keeping you cool. But be careful about washing them since cotton do shrink. I always make sure to hang dry all of my fave cotton dresses so that it doesn’t shrink.

2. Linen
Just like cotton, linen is also made from natural fibers. But the thing I don’t like about linen is that it wrinkles so easily. I’m sure you guys have gotten the dreaded lap crease on your dress, which you can get from simply sitting down. And since I can’t be expected to stand up all day long, sometimes linen is not a practical 12hr-day option for me. Which brings me to one of my favorite fabric option…

3. Rayon
Naturalists are probably going to hate on me for this because rayon is not exactly a natural fiber. Although some are made with bamboo, which is a natural material, it goes through a process that morphs the fabric into a state that falls somewhere between natural and synthetic. But it’s one of my go-to summer fabric because not only is it breatheable, is also more lightweight than cotton and doesn’t wrinkle as easily as linen. I also love the soft “silky” feel of rayon. I even have bamboo rayon bedsheets since I tend to run hot while I sleep.

Now as far as the color goes, it’s really a matter of taste on whether you think black is appropriate for summer or not. I, for one, don’t like to put limits on when a color should be worn. So if you feel like wearing black, go right on ahead. But make sure that fabric is breathable and heat resistant. I like both white and black, but the later does have a slight extra advantage when it comes to hiding sweat marks. Not a bad advantage to have for a hot sweaty summer day.

What about you guys? What’s your go to summer fabric and color?

Before you read on, by the way, the rubes at FTC requires me to let you know that there may be affiliate links below.
Outfit Combo: sleeveless v-neck maxi dress from Old Navy, faux-leather slide sandals from Old Navy, faux-leather drawstring bag from Old Navy, lightweight printed neckerchief from Old Navy, TB701 sunglasses from Thom Browne, storm king ring from LM White Jewelry, hex symbol bracelet from Ettika, onyx bracelet from Charged Jewelry.