Light And Breezy: 8 Types Of Fabrics To Beat The Heat In India
Summer in bustling metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru is not for the faint-hearted. The days are long, the sun unrelenting, and the heat? It wraps around you like a thick blanket you can't shake off. You sweat buckets, your throat feels like sandpaper, and you're constantly on the lookout for a patch of shade. Needless to say, your wardrobe becomes more important than ever during this season. What you wear can make the difference between feeling like you're melting and staying cool, composed, and somewhat cheerful.
While winters give us the freedom to play with heavy fabrics and layering, summer is quite the opposite. It demands that we pay attention, particularly to fabric. A wrong choice like satin or polyester can cling to the skin, trap heat, and leave you feeling irritable, sweaty, and uncomfortable. So, when the temperatures soar, it's time to say goodbye to synthetic materials and hello to breathable, summer-friendly fabrics.
We dug the internet and rounded up eight of the best fabrics to wear during the Indian summer. These materials are not just stylish but also light, airy, and gentle on the skin, making them your best bet to beat the heat. Here's what to stock up on this season:
1. Cotton
8 Lightweight Fabrics For Summer; Photo Credit: Pexels
Let's start with the undisputed king of summer fabrics, cotton. Whether it's your school uniform from childhood or your everyday kurta, cotton has been the go-to fabric for Indian summers for generations. It's breathable, soft, and allows air to circulate freely through your clothes, helping sweat evaporate quickly. Bonus: it's also very easy to maintain.
From crisp white shirts to flowy cotton dresses and salwar suits, the fabric is versatile enough for every style and occasion. Pick 100% pure cotton for best results, and if you can, pick lighter colours, they reflect sunlight and help keep your body temperature down.
2. Linen
8 Lightweight Fabrics For Summer; Photo Credit: Pexels
Linen might just be cotton's slightly more stylish cousin. It's made from flax fibres and is incredibly lightweight. The best part? It gets softer with every wash. Known for its natural texture and elegant look, linen is perfect for both casual and formal wear.
Its biggest strength is moisture-wicking, meaning it absorbs sweat and dries quickly. Yes, it creases easily, but that's part of its charm. There's something inherently effortless and summery about linen trousers or a relaxed linen shirt paired with sandals.
3. Mul Mul
8 Lightweight Fabrics For Summer; Photo Credit: Pexels
If you've never wrapped yourself in mul mul, you're missing out on a slice of heaven. This ultra-soft cotton weave is known for its lightness and almost cloud-like feel. Originally popularised by Indian royalty, mul mul is now a staple in many summer wardrobes.
It's especially great for Indian wear, think kurtas, dupattas, and sarees. The fabric allows for easy movement and breathability, making it a dream to wear on hot days. Look out for hand-block printed mulmul pieces, which are both aesthetic and easy on the skin.
4. Chambray
8 Lightweight Fabrics For Summer; Photo Credit: Pexels
Love the look of denim but can't bear to wear it in the heat? Say hello to chambray. This fabric mimics the look of denim but is made using a much lighter weave, usually in cotton or linen blends. It offers the casual cool of jeans without the weight.
Perfect for shirts, skirts, and even summer dresses, chambray is a great option when you want something structured but breathable. Just be sure to avoid heavy lining underneath and let the fabric speak for itself.
5. Sheer Fabrics
8 Lightweight Fabrics For Summer; Photo Credit: Pexels
When done right, sheer fabrics can be a lifesaver during hot weather. Whether it's georgette, chiffon, or organza, these see-through fabrics allow for air flow and a sense of lightness. The key is to layer smartly, wear them with breathable cotton slips or bralettes underneath.
Sheers add an element of femininity and drama to your outfit while keeping things light. Imagine a flowing sheer shirt thrown over a crop top, or a translucent organza saree that flutters in the summer breeze.
6. Khadi
8 Lightweight Fabrics For Summer; Photo Credit: Pexels
A fabric born from India's freedom movement, khadi is more than just a material, it's a philosophy. Hand-spun and hand-woven, khadi is usually made of cotton and is incredibly breathable. It has a coarse texture but softens with use.
It's also one of the most sustainable fabrics you can wear. Khadi kurtas, dresses, and even trousers are not just cool in temperature, but cool in a sartorial sense too. Many designers are embracing khadi in modern cuts, making it easier than ever to be stylish and sweat-free.
7. Seersucker
8 Lightweight Fabrics For Summer; Photo Credit: Pexels
If you like fabrics with a bit of character, seersucker is for you. Its puckered texture allows the fabric to sit slightly away from the skin, creating air pockets that help with ventilation. Traditionally made of cotton, seersucker often features thin stripes or checks and has a playful, summery vibe.
It's a favourite for blazers, co-ord sets, and shirts, offering a crisp yet comfortable look. Perfect for both brunches and boardrooms (with a relaxed dress code, of course).
8. Jersey (Lightweight)
8 Lightweight Fabrics For Summer; Photo Credit: Pexels
Often mistaken as just a fabric for T-shirts or gym wear, jersey is a type of knit fabric that can be made from a variety of fibres, most commonly from natural ones like cotton, bamboo, or viscose. What sets jersey apart is its soft stretch, smooth texture, and excellent drape.
Lightweight cotton jersey, in particular, is perfect for hot days. It moves with your body, allows air to pass through, and doesn't cling uncomfortably to your skin. The fabric's knit structure helps it stay wrinkle-free and makes it ideal for summer dresses, relaxed tops, and even skirts. Just make sure to skip synthetic blends, which can trap heat and make you feel stuffy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best fabric to wear during Indian summers?
Cotton is widely considered the best fabric for Indian summers due to its breathability, softness, and ability to absorb moisture.
2. Is linen suitable for everyday wear in hot weather?
Yes, linen is an excellent summer fabric. It's lightweight, airy, and perfect for both casual and semi-formal outfits.
3. How is mulmul different from regular cotton?
Mulmul is a finer, softer version of cotton known for its delicate weave, making it extra breathable and comfortable in hot, humid conditions.
4. Can I wear denim in summer?
Traditional denim can feel heavy, but chambray offers a similar look with a much lighter and more breathable texture, ideal for summer.
5. Are sheer fabrics appropriate for daily use in summer?
Sheer fabrics like chiffon and georgette are suitable for daily wear when layered smartly. They allow airflow and add a stylish edge to your outfit.
When it comes to surviving the summers, your fabric choices are just as important as your SPF. The right material not only keeps you cool but also lifts your mood and helps you enjoy the season without constantly battling discomfort. Whether you're dressing for a meeting, a monsoon outing, or a lazy Sunday at home, choosing fabrics that let your skin breathe can make all the difference.
