Beat The Heat… In STYLE

Beat the heat dome in styleFeeling the heat? Blame the heat dome! According to Wikipedia, “A heat dome is caused when atmosphere traps hot ocean air, as if bound by a lid or cap… The upper air weather patterns are slow to move, referred to by meteorologists as an Omega block.”

In the past few weeks, the Pacific Northwest has sweltered under a record-breaking heat wave. Seattle topped 108 degrees and Portland reached an incredible 116 degrees Fahrenheit. The intense heat has buckled roads and melted power cables. And, it’s not just the West Coast. From the Deep South, to the Midwest, to here on the East Coast, temps have soared into the 90s and show no signs of letting up.

So, how can you beat the heat dome and remain super stylish (without melting) as temperatures soar? Here are five simple tips:

Wear black. The color black actually keeps you cooler than white. Although this may feel counterintuitive, it’s true. While black absorbs energy coming from the sun, it also absorbs energy from the body, instead of reflecting it back.

Of course, not all black fabrics are created equally. Breathable, loose-fitting cotton or linen choices, like the trapeze dress pictured, are best.

Ponies, headbands, and messy buns. Since the neck is a pulse point, it makes sense to keep it free of hair as temps surpass the 90 degree mark. To beat the heat, keep both long and short hair up. Choose a high pony, messy bun, or even simply keep it pulled away from the face with a cute headband.

Minimal jewelry. Keeping jewelry to a minimum will keep you infinitely cooler. Save the clinging collar necklaces, armfuls of bangles, and multiple knuckle rings for fall. Even dangly earrings can make you feel hot.

Opt instead, for simple stud earrings. But studs don’t have to be boring! Select whimsical earrings with personality.

Pretty parasols.  Take a cue from Japanese women and carry a parasol.  Since Japan can be dangerously hot in the summer, savvy women carry their own personal sun protection. Today, there are even UV parasols, which are different from typical umbrellas. They actually have specially treated fabric that protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays.

Broad brimmed hat. When a parasol isn’t an option, choose a cool, comfortable straw hat. A woven straw hat will allow air circulation, but will simultaneously keep the sun from roasting your head and hair.

Of course, it’s great to be stylish, but it’s more important to stay safe. For important tips on hydration, exercise, and more during a heat wave, visit CDC website’s heat stress and hydration section.

Thanks so much for reading! While you’re here, please don’t forget to enter our most recent fashion, beauty and style giveaways. And, if you enjoyed this post, visit Women’s Fashion for more beauty and fashion trends, amazing products, giveaways and contests, designer interviews and style inspiration.

DO YOU NEED A PRODUCT REVIEW OR GIVEAWAY? If you have a fashion, beauty or style product line and want an honest evaluation, or if you would like to create a giveaway or promotional event, please contact us.

DISCLAIMER: No financial compensation was received in exchange for this Beat The Heat… In Style post. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I believe will be good for my readers.

Named one of the Top 50 Beauty Blogs in the World by RebateZone.com, Susan Said… WHAT?! is your guide to a life filled with style. From must-have fashion, handbags, jewelry and accessories, to gorgeous gardens and gardening tips, stunning interior design, plus the latest products for chic parties, you’ll find it here. Editor, author and entrepreneur Susan Conforte McNeill is also the co-founder of the Delaware based literacy organization Success Won’t Wait!

2 Comments

Add Yours
  1. 2
    Lauryn R

    This is great advice for staying cool in the Summer! I actually had no idea about wearing black, I always avoid it (besides bathing suits)! I can definitely see how breathable black would be helpful though. Thank you so much for sharing.

Say it here!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.