The Trove Guide to Summer Fabrics

If you feel stuck in a heat wave fashion rut, you’re not alone:  it can be challenging to put together an outfit that’s both cute and comfortable when the heat and humidity are off the charts. There’s nothing worse than feeling damp or less-than-fresh when you’re out on a patio with friends! 

To stay cool in any situation, we like to reach for breathable fabrics that help rather than hinder. But with so many fabric types out there, it can be difficult to know where to start. Today, we’re sharing our Trove guide to the best summer fabrics to beat the heat (as well as a few to avoid).

Our Summer Fabrics Picks

Cotton

Pros: Cotton is a plant fiber that is widely used in clothing production. This breathable fabric type allows air to circulate, which can help you stay cool on a hot day.

Note: Cotton is non-moisture wicking, so we don’t recommend it for high-humidity days or outdoor exercise. If your outdoor time includes physical activity, keep reading!

Linen

Pros: Linen is the ultimate summer fabric. It has a looser weave than cotton, which allows more air to circulate through the fabric. The durable fibers can withstand multiple washes, so your pieces will last several seasons.

Note: Linen wrinkles! We recommend leaning into the look since it’s unavoidable. To deal with deep creases, sprinkle the area with water and smooth it out with your hand. Allow to dry before wearing.

Chambray

Pros: Chambray is a woven fabric made from cotton yarn. It is generally light blue in colour and has a similar appearance to denim. Chambray has all the benefits of cotton fabric, and the lightweight quality of the weave makes chambray suitable for anything from shirts to shorts to maxi dresses.

Note: Like cotton, chambray pieces can shrink when exposed to heat. To avoid disappointment, skip the dryer and hang your chambray pieces to dry.

Tencel

Pros: Tencel is a semi-synthetic fabric derived from natural materials. It is often blended with other fibers, such as cotton, to create activewear garments. Unlike synthetic fibers, Tencel is less susceptible to bacteria growth, so it’s perfect for activewear (or just wearing on a hot day).

Note: Tencel pieces can pill if not cared for correctly. For better results, machine wash your pieces on a gentle/delicate cycle and hang to dry.

Fabrics to Avoid:

Synthetic fabrics such as acrylic, nylon, and polyester are all derived from petroleum. These types of fabrics have low breathability and tend to trap heat, which in turn can lead to bacteria growth and bad odours. We don’t recommend these fabrics for summer garments!

Trove Tip: Need some help finding the perfect piece? Visit us in store! The Trove team is always happy to assist you. We’re located at 1000 Wellington St W. in the heart of beautiful Hintonburg in Ottawa. The shop is open Tuesday-Sunday and is wheelchair/stroller accessible. See you soon!