How to dress modestly during hot weather
Choosing natural fabrics in lighter colours and avoiding layering can make a significant difference during a heatwave
As our summers become hotter and heatwaves become more frequent, figuring out how to dress for the weather is vital. For Muslim women, it can be a challenge finding clothes that offer coverage while still feeling comfortable in soaring temperatures. But dressing modestly in the heat doesn’t have to mean overheating or compromising on style. A few simple tweaks, from choosing natural fabrics to rethinking layering, can make a significant difference.
Here’s how to make your wardrobe work with the weather.
Prioritise natural fabrics
Natural materials such as cotton and linen are your best friends during hot weather. They’re lightweight and breathable, helping sweat evaporate more easily and keeping you feeling fresh throughout the day. Whereas synthetic materials such as polyester tend to trap both heat and moisture, leaving you feeling sweaty and sticky.
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If you’re investing in a few summer staples, check the composition label before you buy. A cotton maxi dress or linen abaya might cost a little more than its polyester equivalent, but you won’t regret it when the temperature rises. Brands such as Abayas Boutique have a beautiful collection of summer abayas made from breathable fabrics, with prices ranging from £39 to £180. For a more sleek, everyday look, Jawda’s linen-cotton ruched slit dress (£44.95) can take you from day to evening with ease.
Loose silhouettes are cooler
When people think about dressing modestly, they often focus on coverage, but how your clothes fit can also impact how comfortable you feel in the heat. Loose-fitting clothing allows air to circulate and helps your body regulate its temperature better, while tight clothing will only trap heat.
Think flowing abayas, oversized shirts, wide-leg trousers and airy maxi skirts. A cotton poplin skirt, like Hawaa’s (£45), is easy to style throughout the summer, while Aab’s Oxford blue maxi shirt (£69) is a lightweight option bringing together both coverage and comfort in style.
Rethink layering
Instead of piling on multiple layers, look for outfits that provide coverage on their own. If you do need an extra layer, an oversized linen shirt such as H&M’s linen-blend shirt (£22.99), worn open over a sleeveless maxi dress offers arm coverage without adding too much weight. Wide-leg linen trousers paired with an oversized long-sleeved t-shirt, such as this item from Arket (£35) allow for airflow while maintaining full coverage.
Arm sleeves are another practical option — they’re lightweight, easy to slip on and much cooler than wearing a long-sleeved top underneath or adding a layer on top.
Your hijab matters
Jersey hijabs are perfect for the colder months, but they may become uncomfortable in warmer weather. Cotton and modal are some of the best options for hot weather and feel lighter around the neck. Some women may also prefer slightly smaller scarves in the summer months, as they require fewer folds and less fabric, while still providing the coverage they’re looking for.
For everyday wear, try Klay The Label’s premium modal hijabs (£13) or Dutch brand Merrachi’s weightless woven hijabs (£25-£45).
Opt for lighter colours
During a heatwave, aim to wear lighter shades as dark colours absorb more of the sun’s energy, while whites, neutral colours and pastel shades reflect more sunlight. That doesn’t mean you have to do away with your favourite black abaya for the summer, but opting for lighter colours from time to time can help you stay cooler.
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Butter yellow remains one of this summer’s biggest trends, and Hawaa’s Spanish sleeve abaya (£55) in the colour offers a modest way to embrace it. If you prefer a more timeless colour option, there’s Lyra Modest’s maxi panel dress in white (£65).
Build a capsule wardrobe
While it’s tempting to buy an entirely new wardrobe every summer, focus on a handful of pieces that work together. A pair of linen trousers, such as Uniqlo’s linen blend easy trousers (£19.90), a breathable maxi dress, a lightweight abaya, an oversized cotton shirt and a couple of summer-friendly hijabs can be mixed and matched into a variety of outfits.
Complete your outfit with breathable footwear — leather sandals and ballet flats can help keep your feet cool. Tap into this summer’s trend with sheer ballet flats, or for something more practical, the Adidas Samba Jane (£80) brings together the comfort of a trainer with the sleek silhouette of a ballet flat.
