You know those hot, humid days when you open the door to leave your apartment and feel like you've walked into a city-sized steam room? When that happens, it's basically impossible not to immediately regret any piece of clothing I've decided to wear. If the chances of becoming the next viral video star were lower, I would just rip off my clothes and continue on my way in the nude.
Unfortunately, that scenario is just begging to go viral, so it really isn't an option. And equally as unfortunate, the personal AC unit that I tote around (a.k.a. my trusty misting fan) doesn't cut it on sweltering days, either. So, the only viable solution is to be strategic with the clothing choices I make on the hottest days of the year. In an effort to feel a little cooler, I've hunted and gathered the most functional clothing for hellishly warm weather. While it may not be ideal to wear clothes at all, the 10 picks ahead are definitely the next best thing.
The Two-Piece Set
The key to getting away with wearing a bra as a top? Embrace it by way of a matching set. You still look put-together and TBH, fancy. Plus, the wrap skirt is conducive to airflow.
Celeste Tesoriero Gingham Wrap Skirt, $85 available at Curriculum; Celeste Tesoriero Gingham Bralette, $45, available at Curriculum.
The Swimsuit As A Bodysuit
Swimsuits are made for getting wet, which means they are good at handling your sweat, too. Try swapping your tank for a one-piece that looks like a tank, especially if you love wearing a color that is prone to showing off your sweat marks.
Prism Samar Swimsuit, $345, available at Net-A-Porter.
The White-Tee Spin-Off
A loose white tee is always a good move in heinous temps, but even better is swapping your white tee for a white T-shirt dress like this one. Since it's the only thing you'll have to throw on, the thin sheath will make you feel extra-cool (in temp and aesthetic), won't cling to your body, and you can wear it over pants on colder days.
T by Alexander Wang Classic Boatneck Dress, $95, available at Need Supply Co.
The Athletic Short
Yes, you can wear athletic shorts during the day! Adidas' track-pant craze isn't going anywhere anytime soon, so get in on the trend now with a pair of the brand's shorts, instead.
Adidas On Court Mesh Basketball Shorts, $28, available at Kohl's.
The Mesh Shirt
There's absolutely nothing more breathable than a mesh top. It's also an ideal layering piece: Wear it with a bra, a tank, something high-waisted, something low-waisted, or even a long-sleeved top underneath in the winter.
Zara Mesh T-shirt, $15.90, available at Zara.
The Not-Just-For-The-Pool Slide Sandal
Slide sandals might be an obvious choice. They slip on and off with ease, so you can really air those feet out when necessary throughout the day. They're good for the pool or the gym, but they're also good for other wet environments (i.e., very sweaty feet). This pair is ideal, because the patent leather dresses things up, but they're still functional for hot days.
Melissa Beach Slide, $77, available at Melissa.
The Flowy Skirt
In extreme heat, you may think the less fabric, the better. Sometimes, though, our miniskirts can be too structured and not-so-breathable — they end up trapping a lot of heat and are uncomfortable to sit in. So, instead of basing your selection on short vs. long, look at the silhouette more closely.
This skirt will hang loosely, so as to not touch most of your body. The asymmetric hem will move as you move, allowing for some airflow. Plus, the dark option (like most of the items in this slideshow because...sweat) will hide your sweat, but still employs a cute pattern to put that extra pep in your step.
Tibi Estrella Printed Silk Ruffle Skirt, $495, available at Tibi.
The Loose, Open-Back Dress
Let that back breathe in a dress that won't cling to the rest of your body, either.
Loéil Verona Dress, $62, available at Loéil.
The Breathable Pant
Sometimes, you just want to wear pants. Maybe the reason is you don't like shorts. Maybe you feel like you can be more active in pants — or maybe you have no reason at all. If you're going to go for pants in the hot, hot heat, try a pair that is built for the task. Sheer panels don't hurt all that much, either.
MSGM Wide Leg Linen Pants $960 $672, available at Stylebop.com.
The Sports Bra As A Top
Like many of the other picks in this slideshow, it's smart to utilize items that are built for sweat. A longer-line sports bra that doesn't have a traditional sports-bra cut can be a cool layering piece with super flimsy, low-cut tanks — or as a top on its own.
No Ka'Oi Multi Colour Block Lani Sports Bra, $110, available at Avenue32.
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