Summer is synonymous with blooming flowers, blue skies, and warmer temperatures. However, maintaining a polished look during the sweltering heat can be a challenge. You want to look professional, yet the weather may not be conducive to heavy woolen suits and jackets. Worry not, ladies, for there are more lightweight, breathable fabrics available to keep you stylishly cool. In this article, we will delve into the best fabrics for summer blazers in a UK climate.
Linen: A Summer Classic
When you think about summer fabrics, linen inevitably comes to mind. Linen is a natural fabric made from the flax plant. It’s lightweight, breathable, and absorbs moisture, making it an excellent choice for hot, humid weather.
A linen blazer is a wardrobe staple for the summer. Its crinkled texture adds character to your outfit, and its breathability keeps you comfortable. Plus, linen’s natural fibres are environmentally friendly, making this fabric a sustainable choice.
However, linen does have a downside: it wrinkles easily. But don’t let this deter you. Those wrinkles are part of linen’s charm, giving it a relaxed, effortless look. If you’re aiming for a more formal appearance, opt for a linen blend. Blending linen with fabrics like cotton or silk can reduce wrinkling, while still keeping you cool and dry.
Cotton: Versatility and Comfort
A fabric that strikes a balance between comfort and style is cotton. This natural fibre is soft, breathable, and perfect for hot weather. Moreover, cotton is a versatile fabric that can be woven into various textures and weights, making it suitable for both casual and formal attire.
A cotton blazer is a must-have for the summer. Its lightweight nature prevents you from overheating, yet its structured silhouette provides a polished look. Additionally, cotton is durable and easy to care for, making it a practical choice for everyday wear.
While cotton is a great choice, it’s crucial to consider the type of cotton used. Seersucker, for instance, is a type of cotton fabric that’s ideal for summer. Its puckered texture allows for improved air circulation, making it even cooler than regular cotton.
Wool-Silk-Linen Blends: The Best of Three Worlds
Wool may seem counterintuitive for summer wear, but certain types of wool, such as Merino, are surprisingly suitable for warmer weather. By combining wool with silk and linen, you get a fabric that is lightweight, breathable, and maintains a refined appearance.
A wool-silk-linen blend blazer offers a unique blend of texture and sheen. The wool provides structure, the silk adds a subtle lustre, and the linen brings lightness and breathability. This combination results in a blazer that is sophisticated and suitable for both office and social settings.
However, this blend can be pricey due to the high quality of the materials used. But, if you’re willing to invest in a blazer that will keep you cool and stylish during the summer, a wool-silk-linen blend is a worthwhile choice.
Blends of Synthetic and Natural Fibres
There’s a common misconception that synthetic fabrics are always hot and uncomfortable to wear. While it’s true that some synthetics trap heat, certain types can actually be quite cooling. When blended with natural fibres, they create fabrics that are lightweight, durable, and easy to care for.
A blazer made from a blend of natural and synthetic fibres can be a great addition to your summer wardrobe. For instance, a cotton-polyester blend will give you the breathability of cotton and the durability and wrinkle resistance of polyester.
However, it’s important to check the fabric composition. Ideally, the blend should contain a higher percentage of natural fibres to ensure breathability.
Chambray: A Lightweight Denim Alternative
If you enjoy the look of denim but dread the thought of wearing it in the summer heat, chambray is the fabric for you. Chambray is a plain weave fabric, usually made from cotton or a cotton blend, that has a similar appearance to denim but is much lighter and breathable.
A chambray blazer is an excellent casual option for summer. It’s durable, easy to care for, and pairs well with a wide range of outfits. Plus, chambray’s subtle sheen adds an unexpected touch of sophistication to this lightweight fabric.
When choosing a chambray blazer, opt for one in a lighter shade, as it will reflect heat better than darker colours. Also, ensure the fabric is lightweight and breathable to keep you cool and comfortable.
Seersucker: The Puckered Summer Fabric
If you’re looking for a fabric that is synonymous with summer, then seersucker is your go-to. This unique, puckered fabric is a type of cotton that is perfect for hot weather. The crinkled surface of seersucker promotes air circulation, making it a cool and breathable summer fabric.
A seersucker summer blazer is a classic choice for those sweltering days. Its light, airy nature means you won’t feel bogged down by the heat, and the distinctive puckered texture adds a hint of sophistication. Seersucker blazers often come in a striped pattern, adding a touch of whimsy to your look.
However, while choosing a seersucker blazer, it’s essential to consider the fit. Due to its puckered texture, seersucker doesn’t drape as smoothly as other fabrics, so a well-fitted blazer is paramount for a polished look. If done right, a seersucker blazer can be your best summer companion, keeping you cool while ensuring you look stylish.
Double-Breasted Blazers: A Stylish Summer Suit Choice
When it comes to blazer styles, a double-breasted blazer is a fantastic choice for summer. This style traditionally has a row of buttons on each side of the jacket and can be made from any of the fabrics mentioned earlier. The double-breasted blazer is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a summer suit jacket that is a bit more formal than a single-breasted one.
A double-breasted linen cotton blazer is a winner for any summer occasion. The linen cotton blend ensures the blazer is breathable and lightweight, while the double-breasted style adds a touch of formality.
When choosing a double-breasted blazer, opt for one in a light colour. Light colours, such as white, beige, or light blue, reflect the sun and keep you cooler. A Ralph Lauren white linen double-breasted blazer, for instance, is a timeless and elegant choice for any summer event.
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Summer Blazer
Finding the perfect summer blazer can be a daunting task, but understanding the different fabrics and styles available can make the process easier. Whether you prefer a linen blazer, a cotton suit jacket, a wool-silk-linen blend, or even a chambray shirt jacket, there’s a summer blazer out there to suit your needs.
When choosing a blazer, remember to consider the fabric’s weight, breathability, and care instructions. Opt for fabrics that are lightweight and breathable to ensure you stay cool in the hot weather. Also, consider the blazer style. A double-breasted blazer, for instance, offers a more formal look, while a single-breasted one is perfect for casual wear.
With the information provided in this article, we hope to have made your hunt for the perfect summer blazer a little less daunting. Keep exploring and trying on different styles and fabrics until you find the one that suits you best. After all, the best summer blazer is the one that makes you feel confident and comfortable.