Summer Fabric

The coolest fabrics are those made from natural, breathable fibres. Linen, 100 percent cotton, and Viscose are the top three choices. These materials allow air to circulate around the body and are excellent at wicking moisture away from the skin. For the ultimate summer comfort, look for ‘open-weave’ fabrics like cheesecloth or very fine cotton lawns.

While spring was about soft neutrals, Summer this year is embracing ‘Vibrant Energy’. The standout shades are ‘Sunset Orange’ and ‘Ocean Teal’. We are seeing a huge move toward bold, large-scale tropical prints and ‘digital’ florals that pop against the summer sun. For those who prefer neutrals, textured unbleached linens remain a high-fashion staple.

For beachwear, you want something lightweight and quick-drying. Voile and Chiffon are excellent for sheer, elegant wraps. If you want something more practical, a lightweight Cotton Jersey or a thin Terry Towelling is perfect for hooded cover-ups that are comfortable to wear directly over a wet swimsuit.

Summer fabrics like viscose and cotton are prone to shrinkage in the wash. To protect your handmade wardrobe, we recommend pre-washing your fabric at 30 degrees before you cut your pattern. Avoid the tumble dryer for summer garments; air-drying not only prevents shrinkage but also helps maintain the ‘crispness’ of linens and the ‘fluidity’ of viscose.