I recently had a request for a blog post on how to look polished in hot and humid weather, and it made me think about our trip to Italy last summer, when it was upwards of 100 degrees Fahrenheit the first few days of our trip. In fact, it’s almost that hot here in Philly right now!
similar linen sweater tank (S) // similar linen shorts (8) // YSL belt (option) // Tory Burch Miller Sandals (8) // YSL handbag (option) // similar necklace // LAGOS bracelets one & two
I was thinking about this exact topic when I was sitting outside at a graduation party on Sunday, and it was 94 degrees in the shade. It’s definitely a challenge to maintain a polished and put-together appearance when the temps are soaring, but it can be done with some strategic planning.
Tips for Looking Polished In Hot & Humid Weather
#1. Wear natural fibers or moisture-wicking fabrics.
The most obvious piece of advice I can offer is to wear natural fibers — linen and cotton are typically more breathable than rayon and polyester. The linen sweater tank and linen shorts I’m wearing above were quite comfortable in Italy last summer, even in the extreme heat.
Another option is moisture-wicking clothing. I brought this dress with me to Italy last summer, and it was perfect. I felt chic in the black sheath, but the moisture-wicking fabric kept me comfortable in the 100-degree weather. I like this one a lot too.
Columbia Chill River Sheath Dress (M) // Tory Burch Miller Sandals (8) // Away The Medium Suitcase // Away The Everywhere Bag
#2. Keep it simple, but wear one statement piece.
One-and-done dresses are usually the coolest option, but if you prefer to wear a top and pants, choose one piece that makes a statement (either with a print, fun details like embroidery, or a graphic tee) so you don’t need to add much in the way of layers or accessories for interest points.
#3. Invest in Thigh Society Cooling Shorts.
My Thigh Society Cooling Shorts were a lifesaver in Italy, and I’ve worn them a few times recently here at home on super hot days under dresses or skirts. They not only prevent chafing, but they’re moisture-wicking and have some kind of magic fabric that keeps you cool and comfortable down there.
SIZING NOTES: If they are too small or too short, they may roll up on you. I wear the M/L, and I prefer the 7″ length.
#4. Accessorize with lightweight statement pieces.
Rather than layering on a bunch of accessories, choose one or two lightweight pieces that are large enough to make a statement. Raffia and other natural materials are perfect for this, like these raffia hoops I’ve been wearing with so many of my summer outfits.
gauze top (S) // MOTHER denim (29) // raffia earrings // Tom Ford sunnies
#5. Add a chic pair of sunglasses.
Sunglasses are an easy and practical way to level up your style game, especially when it’s super hot outside. Make sure they’re an updated style, in a shape and color that flatters you.
#6. Carry a stylish handbag that complements your outfit.
No matter how hot it is, you probably need a handbag, so make it count. Current trending styles are crochet and raffia fabrics, or a bright color is always fun in the summertime.
Capital Z Shoreline Stripe Sling Bag // raffia earrings // linen tee (S) // white shorts (8) // Birks (39)
#7. Swap out your plastic flip flops for a chic leather sandal.
Just like accessories, your footwear can make or break an outfit, and you have to wear shoes no matter how hot it is outside, so choose something that complements your outfit and levels up your look.
beek Sunbeam Flip Flops (8) // linen pants (6) // white tee (M) // denim jacket (#NSale!)
#8. Keep up with your pedicure.
Just say no to dry, cracked ankles and chipped toenail polish. Nothing cheapens a look faster than chipped nail polish. Whether you go to the salon or prefer to DIY it, make sure to keep your feet moisturized and your nail polish fresh.
#9. Use an oil-free daytime moisturizer, and lighten up on your makeup.
Swap out your heavy moisturizer for a lightweight oil-free version, especially for morning use under makeup. Also, mineral powder or a tinted moisturizer will wear better throughout the day than a heavy full-coverage foundation. I’m a huge fan of Jane Iredale (I wear Latte in the summer) with this setting spray.
linen sheath (M) // comfort sandals (8)
#10. Switch to waterproof mascara.
In the wintertime, my regular mascara is fine, but in the summer, it tends to run and look messy so I’ve switched to waterproof version. I’m actually quite impressed by this budget-friendly one by Maybelline.
#11. Keep a travel-sized deodorant in your glove box.
There’s nothing worse than getting in the car and realizing you forgot deodorant, so I like to keep a mini size of my favorite deodorant in my glove box in case I need to freshen up during the day.
And then there all of the usual tips that are important for looking polished at anytime of year, but especially when you may be feeling hot and sweaty and a little droopy: Wear the right bra, pay attention to fit and proportion, keep up your hands neatly manicured, keep up with your haircuts (and color, if you color your hair), etc.
What would you add to this list?
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31 Responses
Great tips & tricks! I have one toe nail that is trying to get a fungus so my foot doctor put me on some stuff to paint over toenails and I can’t even wear toe nail polish unless I go somewhere special and have to take off soon as I get home. This goes on till October, ugh! I also have her stuff to mix in nail polish to make it more friendly to toenails. Do you have any ideas besides neutral sandals to not cause attention to my toes? The other day in J Jill a lady loved my neutral shoes and I thought omg…….is this working? ha! Also on Jane Iredale I got the cream that use to be moist and creamy , Glow Time Pro BB cream and it is so thick now and off with my color. Any ideas on how to correct that? I got at the derms office and the girl supposely matched me correctly……thanks for your help!!!
I have a recent problem too where I don’t want to wear sandals. Problem with ingrown nail caused doctor to remove half my nail on big toe of one foot. He said it’s permanent. Sigh. I would appreciate alternative suggestions for summer shoes that aren’t sandals (that preferably come in wide width).
Pam a friend of mine had her entire toe nail removed. After it healed she just painted the skin. Maybe you can do the same. I wouldn’t worry about it. Who looks at your feet. It’s so hot in Texas I couldn’t go around with closed shoes all the time. Those mesh shoes might be an option for you.
Thank you Terri! Great suggestions and such a positive outlook! I appreciate it😃
Hi Pam! I had the same thing in college. Mine grew back. Although it took a while. Don’t want to give you false hope, but it is possible. In the meantime what about espadrilles? Especially in a canvas or linen type fabric? Although I agree with Terri, I couldn’t give up my sandals! My issue happened in the fall, but on days I wanted to wear sandals I think I just covered my missing toenail with a flesh toned bandaid.
Thank you for the encouragement Megan! And for the great suggestions too! 😃
I did the exact same thing, put a Band-Aid on the missing toenail! 🙂 I’ve lost several toe nails over the years, due to infections I get at pedicure stations, and they’ve always grown back for me.
My mother had a toenail removed and the nail salon made her a nail to “stick” on. No idea what product was used for attaching.
I was going to say, that happened to a friend, and that is what they did. It is like a fake nail, I guess? Hers grew out and it’s fine now.
Because I don’t keep my toenails polished, I make sure that my feet are in good shape by using s body scrub on them every night when I shower. Once my feet are dried off, I apply an adequate amount of Aquaphor to them before putting on some soft socks, that I will wear for at least 3 hrs., so that it can do its job. My feet are sandal ready throughout the year. I’m not really bothered by not keeping my toenails polished, so this works for me.
Yes, I meant keeping them neat and clean, not necessarily polished. I don’t think you have to have polish to look, well, polished… haha! But just not cracking and chipping. 🙂
I feel your pain! I’m in the same boat with one toe developing a fungus and now using the medicinal lacquer daily. What is the mix in you use in nail polish?
I’m not sure about the makeup, why is it off with your color? And as for sandals, yeah, that’s tough. I think your idea to keep your sandal close to your skin tone is a good strategy. I would hate to have to cover my toes in the summer.
I have a couple of the same deodorant travel size in my purse I wear a lot of dresses during the summer they are so much more comfortable and cooler
I see that the wide legs will be going strong through fall/winter. What kind of shoes should we plan on wearing with them ? I usually am wearing sandals and sneakers this summer.
Could you suggest a moisturizer for feet that works for flaky skin?
Aquaphor ointment is amazing for that, and it’s not terribly expensive. Some ladies put it on before bed and then put light cotton socks on to help it soak in. Or they make all kinds of foot creams.
Amlactin lotion. Daily use for about three weeks eliminates dry, cracked foot problems. Then once or twice a week thereafter maintains beautiful feet. Any well stocked retail pharmacy has it. Needs no prescription. A bottle for less than twenty US dollars lasts two or three years. It has worked for me for nearly 25 years.
Hi Jo-Lynne, Great tips on keeping cooler! I finally ordered two pairs of cooling shorts that you recommend. I have another brand, but they are heavier and I’ll wait to cooler weather to bring them out again. Another cooling tip is a light-weave sunhat. I love shielding my face and hair with a hat that is loose and wide. I know sometimes it’s a pain to have when you go into a restaurant or other buildings, but I usually just keep it on! Thanks for all your great ideas!! Have fun at Nordstroms today. I plan to shop on-line on Thursday and will be sure to use your link to get onto the Nordstrom site.
Yes, a hat is a great addition to this list! I always feel like they make me feel hotter, because it’s another layer, but I guess it does shield you from the sun.
When it’s hot and humid, I cannot stand having my hair on my neck. It’s long enough for a ponytail or twist, and I’ve had to practice a bit to get a chic look instead of a juvenile one—but I cannot imagine not putting it up. In fact, it was perimenopause/menopause hot flashes combined with East coast heat and humidity that spurred me to grow out my hair. That in-between length didn’t give me any options and I do not look good in very short hair.
Yep, another good tip. I am terrible with hair and never feel chic when I put my hair up – I need to figure that out. I prefer to keep it down and sweat, lol, but I’d love to master a chic updo.
This is a very good list! Because of how hot and sweaty I get, I have to wear my hair up, off of my neck.
Thanks for your input! I might suggest that your “glovebox” deodorant is a travel sized spray or roll on. Solids will turn to liquids on hot days and can be quite messy. (I found out the hard way.)
Good point!
The Cashmere Mist Deodorant is beautiful and it works.
We have a place on 30a in the FL panhandle and live the rest of the time in Birmingham! Hot and Humid!!! I have Big thick hair with lots of texture. I actually love my hair but when the heat and humidity sets in it’s huge and frizzy and out of control! I found Color Wow dream coat is a life saver! The first day after using it my hair is flatter than I’d usually like but after the second day it’s perfect! Love these tips Jo-Lynn! That first black shorts outfit is soooo chic!!! Blessings Krista
Yes, that stuff is so good! I should have included that here. Also, some people get keratin treatments.
I’m still confused on how to shop my Nordstrom cart so you get credit (a lot of items in there were your suggestions). When I go to my cart tomorrow, how do I link back to you?
You just click though on any of my Nordstrom links and check out. 😊
That Columbia Chill River Dress is one of my travel favorites. Such a great find, packs super small and can be used as everything from a beach coverup to a nice dinner dress.