Summer is a season of sun, fun, and outdoor activities, but it also brings the challenge of staying cool in the sweltering heat. Especially if you live under the blazing Florida sun of Florida’s east coast. As we’re located in Vero Beach, FL, we know what we’re talking about. What you wear plays a significant role in how comfortable you will feel throughout the day, and color choice is more important than you might think. The colors you choose can either help you stay cool or retain the heat, making you feel suffocated. Most of us already know the cardinal rule that black clothing absorbs the heat from the sun’s rays, but what colors should we be wearing to stay cool? We’re here to decide the best colors to wear in the summer heat, so you can enjoy the sunshine while staying stylish and (mostly) comfortable. Color science is a real thing, kids!
Wondering how we know? Morningstar Screen printing is on its way to be Florida’s premier custom apparel provider. We pride ourselves on being able to consult with our customers and determine not only how we can make their awesome shirts and hats come to life, but how they should look! If you want to learn more, check us out!
Light Colors Reflect Heat, Dark Colors Take Defeat
When the sun is blazing and the humidity is close to unbearable, the last thing you want is to attract more heat. Light colors, especially white, reflect sunlight rather than absorbing it. This means that wearing white, pastels, and other light shades can help keep you cool by deflecting the sun’s rays away from your body. It’s like wearing your very own Captain America shield! Unlike the science behind Cap’s super soldier serum, the science behind this is simple: white and other light colors reflect a higher percentage of light, including infrared light, which is responsible for the heat we feel.
For example, in desert regions where temperatures can soar, light-colored robes are a traditional choice. Not only are they chosen for cultural or religious reasons, but because they help keep the body cooler. Now, you may not want to wear a robe to work or the gym, but you can still incorporate this principle into your summer wardrobe. Choosing light-colored t-shirts, shorts, and dresses made from breathable fabrics like linen will help you beat the heat. Pastels like baby blue, soft pink, or mint green are also great options. They add a stylish pop of color and some much needed contrast while still reaping the cooling benefits of lighter shades. We have tons of bright color choices for you to choose from!
Embrace Brights and Add Vibrancy Without Overheating
Let’s paint the picture together, shall we? A coral sundress or a turquoise top not only makes a bold fashion statement but also keeps you feeling cooler than if you were wearing darker colors, like black or navy. Bright colors are also a great way to express your personality and mood during the summer months. Accessorizing with brightly colored hats or sunglasses can also add a burst of color without making your outfit look too busy. (P.S. we embroider hats too!) Not only will you be able to walk outside without overheating, you’ll also look darn good while doing so.
As we mentioned above, summer is the perfect time to embrace bright, bold colors like coral, turquoise, and lemon yellow. These shades are vibrant and eye-catching, making them ideal for summer parties, beach outings, or casual daytime events. Brilliant, vivid colors are bound to make you a topic of conversation. But did you know that bright colors also have the added benefit of reflecting sunlight, much like the lighter shades? This is because bright colors, while more saturated than pastels, still reflect much of the sun’s rays, helping to keep your body temperature down and your spirits up. The brighter the color, the better protected you are.
Earthy Tones for a Natural Vibe
If bright colors aren’t your thing, we have you covered too. Earthy tones such as olive green, beige, and soft browns can be a great alternative to the overwhelming look of bold brights. These colors are neutral enough to wear with just about anything and don’t absorb as much heat as darker colors. Earthy tones are often associated with a natural, grounded persona. So, if being in touch with nature and going with the flow is your vibe, these colors should make up the majority of your warm weather wardrobe. Earthy tones are also a perfect choice building stylish but efficient outfits for activities like hiking, picnics, or beach days.
One such outfit could be a lightweight olive green t-shirt paired with neutral colored biker shorts, which creates a stylish yet understated look that works well in essentially any outdoor setting. Beige is another versatile color that not only keeps you cool but also pairs well with almost any other color. A beige sundress or a pair of tan chinos can be dressed up or down with the right accessories, making them perfect for transitioning from hot day to warm night. Soft browns, like those found in natural linen or cotton, evoke a sense of calm and comfort, ideal for avoiding the heat on a relaxing summer day.
Pro tip: As comfortable as it is, cotton is actually not the best for beating the heat. It’s a heavy material that doesn’t wick away moisture and absorbs smells from things like sweat. Gross.
Cool Blues and Summer Hues
Blue is often associated with feelings of calm and tranquility, and it’s no surprise that this color is a summer favorite. Cool tones are ideal for powering through the heat and actually enjoying what the warm weather has to offer. Cool blues, ranging from sky blue to aquamarine, capture the refreshing feel of water and help you channel your inner cool. Lighter shades of blue, like powder blue or baby blue, reflect more sunlight and have a cooling effect, much like white or pastels.
Blue is also known to have a psychological effect that can help you feel cooler, even if the temperature is rising. It basically Jedi mind-tricks you into believing you’re cooling down despite the rising temperatures. Incorporating shades of blue into your summer wardrobe can help you stay cool, calm, and collected.
Color Your Florida Summer Wisely With Custom Apparel!
Choosing the right colors to wear during the summer can make a huge difference in how comfortable you feel throughout the day. Light colors, bright hues, earthy tones, and cool blues help you beat the heat while bringing out your natural beauty. As you build up your warm weather wardrobe, be sure to incorporate these colors to stay cool, calm, and stylish all season long. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring the outdoors, or trotting the globe, these color tips will ensure you stay fresh and cool under the sun.
If you have a color in mind, let’s get started. Morningstar Screen printing is ready to start your project in Vero Beach, FL and beyond. We have the equipment you need to make your designs come to life, in the boldest, brightest, heat-deflecting colors. If you’re ready to get started, contact us today.