As the temperatures rise during the summer months, keeping cool becomes a priority for everyone. For individuals who choose to dress modestly, such as wearing abayas and hijabs, staying comfortable while maintaining their modesty can be a challenge. This article aims to provide practical tips and strategies to help individuals wearing modest clothing beat the heat and stay cool during the scorching summer days.
Choose Breathable Fabrics:
Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, and chiffon for your abayas and hijabs. These materials allow air circulation, wick away moisture, and keep you cool by preventing excessive heat buildup.
Choose The Right Abaya Designs:
Consider abayas with loose-fitting designs that allow air to flow freely. Look for styles with wider sleeves, A-line cuts, and flared or maxi-length skirts, as they provide ample ventilation and minimize direct contact with the body, enhancing comfort in hot weather.
Select Hijabs Wisely:
When it comes to hijabs, opt for lightweight fabrics and styles that allow airflow. Choose hijabs made of breathable materials like cotton or viscose, and consider styles such as wrap-around hijabs or lightweight scarves that can be easily adjusted to allow better airflow around the head and neck.
Layer Strategically:
Layering is a common practice in modest dressing, but during the summer, it’s essential to layer strategically. Instead of multiple thick layers, opt for a single lightweight layer to maintain modesty while minimizing heat retention. For example, choose a lightweight cardigan or kimono-style abaya to provide coverage without adding excessive warmth.
Embrace Light Colors:
Light-colored clothing reflects sunlight rather than absorbing it, helping to keep you cool. Opt for pastel shades, whites, or light neutrals for your abayas and hijabs. Darker colors tend to absorb heat and can make you feel hotter in the summer sun.
Use Cooling Accessories:
Invest in cooling accessories such as cooling towels, which can be wrapped around your neck or placed on your head to provide instant relief from the heat. Additionally, consider wearing cooling caps or hats made from breathable materials to protect your face and scalp from direct sunlight.
Stay Hydrated:
Keeping your body hydrated is crucial in hot weather. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and regulate your body temperature. Carry a water bottle with you at all times and make it a habit to drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Seek Shade:
Whenever possible, seek shade to protect yourself from direct sunlight. Stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day, or if you must be outside, find shaded areas such as parks with trees or use umbrellas to shield yourself from the sun’s rays.
Use Sunscreen:
Apply sunscreen with a high SPF to exposed skin to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. This is particularly important for areas like the face, neck, and hands that may be exposed while wearing modest clothing.
Prioritize Ventilation:
Ensure that your living spaces, prayer areas, and workplaces are well-ventilated. Use fans or air conditioning to circulate air and create a comfortable environment. Portable fans or misting fans can be particularly helpful in providing instant relief when you’re outdoors.
Staying cool in summer while wearing modest clothing is achievable with the right strategies and choices. By selecting breathable fabrics, optimizing abaya and hijab designs, layering strategically, embracing light colors, utilizing cooling accessories, staying hydrated, seeking shade, using sunscreen, and prioritizing ventilation, individuals can enjoy the summer season comfortably and confidently while maintaining their modesty. Remember, comfort and modesty can go hand in hand, even in the hottest of summers.
