Staying cool in the hot, humid summer in Hong Kong can be a bit of a task but doing so while being flawlessly chic can be hopeless! Here are a few tips from Image Consultant Laura Grace to stay cool while looking hot!
1. Fabric, fabric fabric!
Choosing the right fabric is key for staying cool in the hot, humid months. You will want to choose fabrics that breathe and are good at absorbing such as cotton, linen and other natural fibers. You also want to make sure that the fabric is lightweight and does not cling to the body allowing your skin to breathe and your body temperature to remain normal.
Certain fabrics can actually trap heat and increase sweat and nothing is worse then trying to be a fashionista while having sweat stains under your arms. Avoid fabrics such as Nylon and Polyester as these can be your worst enemy during the summer months.
2. Clothing
We all have been at the gym for the past few months getting ready for our summer shorts, right? Well if you're not quite ready to wear your trendy "hot pants" out try showing a little ankle flesh and going for a Capri or a turned up hem, this will allow a bit more breeze then a regular pair of jeans. Also a maxi dress is a great way to achieve summer chic while still being very forgiving. Skirts and dresses are always great in summer as they allow your body to breathe. Another fun trend for summer is the "jumpsuit" - try strapless and in a solid colour, but make sure it fits you loosely and allows air to circulate throughout. If you're working in an office where the air conditioning is turned up high or you feel uncomfortable without hosiery, bring a pair in your purse and change when you get to the office so you can stay cool while in transit. Also if you have to wear a closed-toe shoe while at the office, bring a pair of open-toed in your bag to change into for after work drinks with the girls. Allowing your tootsies to breathe is a sure fire way to keep cool. Cardigans, shawls and blazers are great pieces for layering when you’re inside and the AC is turned on high and they also don’t add to much bulk to your bag.
3. Accessories
We all know that accessories finalize an outfit. So when you’re choosing your accessories keep the summer heat in mind. Summer's hottest accessory is flesh but a sunburn is never in season, so always remember to wear sunscreen on the parts of your body that are exposed. A great pair of shades is an easy way to go Hollywood glam in the summer. Finding the right pair for your face shape can be a bit difficult. Look for a pair that covers your entire eye area and keep your body proportions in mind - you don’t want to drown behind your sunnies. Hats are also a great way to hide from the heat but they also can trap heat in so be mindful of what your hats are made of. Fedoras are great and usually made of some sort of straw allowing breathability. Your summer accessories should be fashionable but also functional.
4. Colour!
I love summer because that is the time everyone puts away their LBD and brings out the LWD (Little White Dress). This summer’s hottest colours are being called "ice cream coulors" - whites, creams, beiges, peaches, light earth tones and icy blues. If you strive to be a little more flashy don’t be afraid to show your personality and try something a little brighter, like a turquoise or geranium. You can always add a bit of glam to an outfit with a "pop" of colour but always keep your colouring in mind and only choose colours that suit you. If you feel like going for a print, tribal and ethnic prints are great for showing your summery side.
