Let’s face it: everyone loves summer, but no one likes to be dripping with sweat. If you haven’t already rotated your closet — and stowed away that cozy cashmere and wool for next season — now is the time to do it. It is officially summer, after all.
Counter-intuitive as it may seem, clothing is actually your biggest ally when it comes to staying cool and breezy this season. I mean, we’re all for stripping down to your birthday suit and laying in front of the fan, but at some point we all have to step outside or enter the virtual world of Zoom meetings.
Sweat is your body’s attempt at cooling itself down and, unfortunately, most fabrics trap that moisture and prevent it from evaporating and doing its job. That’s why we’re counting down the best naturally breathable fabrics for an airy, sweat-free summer.
Modal 
This bio-based fabric is a game-changer when it comes to staying cool. It’s known for being silky-soft, stretchy, and naturally breathable. Since it’s more porous than most fabrics, you can count on it to easily absorb sweat. The unique fabric is also the star of our Sleepwear Collection which is made up of comfy nightgowns, sleep shorts, and camis for the most serene of summer sleeps.
Micro Modal
OK, we’ve taken you through the merits of modal — but what about micro modal? Lightweight and summery, micro modal combines a rayon base with modal cotton for silky textured fabric that keeps its shape. As seen in our Ashley Graham x Knix Micro Modal Collection, this fabric is a summer must that’s body-hugging and barely-there all at once. It’s also naturally breathable, allowing air to pass through and sweat to evaporate.
Flax Linen
Flax linen is all the rage these days — and for good reason. It’s eco-friendly, moisture-absorbent, and hella durable. If you’re a hot sleeper, consider swapping out your bedding for flax linen. Its cooling properties can help regulate your body temperature — so you can curl up under the sheets without getting sweaty.
Chambray
Often mistaken for denim, chambray is a summer favorite that’s typically weaved of pure cotton or linen. It has the blue-and-white woven look of denim, but with a lightweight and airy feel. Its higher thread count makes it ultra breathable, while its refined texture makes any look feel elevated. Chambray, you stay.
Pure Cotton
While you’re probably no stranger to cotton (it’s in just about everything), you might not know that pure cotton is among the most naturally breathable fabrics around. Since it’s naturally absorbent, it’s less likely to leave you with sweat marks like synthetic fabrics do. One more reason to make friends with simple cotton tees — or lounge around the pool in our cotton Beach Shirt — all summer long.
Moisture-Wicking Blends
Keep that body temperature regulated (and those sweat marks at bay) with a little help from moisture-wicking fabric blends this summer. Our Longevity Bra, for instance, is a nylon-spandex blend that shapes to your body and naturally draws moisture away from your skin.