A SUMMER FILLED WITH TEXTURE

Words by Jamal Grootboom | Images: Supplied

Playing with textures even during the blazing summer months is a great way to add interest to your wardrobe. These different fabrications allow for layers without making it feel like you are adding unnecessary weight to your outfit.

As big days are ramping up, going to the beach, out for brunch, a wine farm outing, and hitting your favourite summer event followed by a night out on the town means you need versatility. Time moves quickly during this period, and stopping at home for a quick change isn’t always an option.

Luckily, summer textured pieces are here to give you many options to add interest to an outfit without feeling sticky from the heat. Airy linens, crochet pieces, and lightweight knits give you the freedom to look your best while enjoying being outside.

No longer only regulated to beach attire, crochet pieces have moved to the must-have breezy fabric for hot days. The netted nature of this unique textile offers a myriad of possibilities for styling with other colourful chevron skirts, resort shirts and destination-inspired tops. This doesn’t mean coverups have gone out the window. Opt for cropped and kaftan-esque styles, and try crochet accessories that bring a boho feel to any look.

The fabric made for summer, linen is unique as it absorbs moisture easily while drying down relatively quickly. Since the heat will have most people sweating, the absorptive nature of linen allows for that clammy feeling to be minimised.

Linen’s stiff nature gives clothing pieces a sleek structure that makes for easy day-to-day wear. This makes it a great textile in shirts, dresses, pants, and shorts. Style these breezy items with sandals, hats, and sunglasses to finish off your summer linen look.

Often associated with winter, knitwear is wearable year-round. In summer, the biggest difference comes in the thickness and the weaving patterns. Summer knits are made with a lighter fabrication with a looser weaving pattern to allow them to be more breathable. These are ideal to layer over other pieces or wear on their own. Go for sleeveless options to keep the summer heat at bay, knitted shirts and fitted dresses.