Chronicle Editor
Yoliswa Dube-Moyo
ONE of my biggest regrets in the last two weeks or so has been getting braids. It’s been so hot I’ve wished I had just let my hair be. You know, tousled and all.
In hindsight, I should’ve seen summer coming and opted for something airier.
While braids can provide good protection for your hair, they can be burdensome when it’s hot. Same as weaves, wigs and anything in-between.
Sometimes you just want something that will help you catch your breath in the mornings I know, but maybe now is a good time to enjoy cuts and natural hair styling.
I’ve come to a point where I’m convinced that braids are better left for the winter season. But then again, that’s just me. At the end of the day you want to pick a hairstyle that’s functional and obviously looks good on you. Just like you want to wear strappy sandals on well-manicured feet.
We’re going towards the festive season and there’ll be so many reasons to look pretty and get out of the house. You can still beat the heat with finesse with the right fabrics, shoes and hairstyle.
Cotton is one of the best fabrics for summer and hot weather. Not only is it cheap and hugely available, but it is also great for the heat. Cotton is soft, lightweight, breathable, and soaks up sweat, allowing heat to escape the body and for you to stay cool.
So is linen — it is also very light and is loosely woven which allows heat to escape from the body. It absorbs a lot of moisture and dries quickly, keeping you cool and dry. It tends to be stiff, but that also means it is not sticking to your body.
Denim, rayon, chiffon and khakhi are also great for hot weather. I know the temptation to wear flip flops and shorts is always high but where you’re going and what you’re going to be doing should be the first consideration you make.
I mean, surely, you can’t be chairing a formal meeting in an AMA KIP KIP T-shirt. Sometimes you just have to brave the heat. I know gents, having to wear a pair of socks, tie and blazer must be a nightmare in the heat. But you know what they say — a gentleman knows no weather.
The way you dress can go a long way in keeping you comfortable in the sweltering heat. The white linen shirt every male movie star wears on the beach isn’t just fashionably conscious; it’s also intelligent for hot, sunny days.
Dark clothing absorbs more heat, and tight clothes don’t let sweat — your body’s natural cooling system — evaporate. Try to remember this whenever you’re getting dressed. If you want to have a less crappy day under the sun, avoid dark coloured clothing and pieces that won’t let your skin breathe.
You need to try and keep your skin dry otherwise you might find yourself nursing rashes and skin infections as a result of excessive sweating.
Dresses are such a clever investment for times like these — they go on easy and let in air through all the right places. Make them your best friend and if you don’t already own any — put them on your budget for the next time you go out shopping.
Sunglasses are chic and functional. They prevent harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from scorching your corneas and protect your eyes for many more summers to come.
Choose sunglasses that block 90 to 100 percent of UV rays. It might be a long shot maybe, but if you can afford it, don’t settle for those $5 sunglasses sold by the street corner — they might hurt your eyes over time.
Unlike eight-inch-high heels at the park, a hat is smart summer fashion. Throwing on a wide-brimmed hat prevents UV rays from hitting the sensitive spots on your face and keeps your skin looking young and wrinkle-free.
Nothing knocks good days off a summer calendar like nasty sunburn. When outdoors, use sunscreen with an SPF rating of at least 15. Use a higher-rated, waterproof sunscreen if you’ll be under the sun for prolonged periods.
Don’t forget to cover areas that burn easily such as the nose, ears, shoulders, and the back of the neck. I know most of us don’t think we need sunscreen, neither do we value its purpose but believe me when I say whether you’re yellow bone or chocolate brown, you need sunscreen.
Just like sunscreen protects the rest of your skin, a lip balm with SPF protection blocks out the sun and locks in moisture for your lips.
There’s a lot to do when the weather is right: family picnics, endless hours on the golf course, or lounging in your backyard hammock.
Unfortunately, too much fun in the sun can be dangerous. Excessive heat exposure can cause dehydration, which in turn can cause dangerous conditions such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
No matter what your plans are, fighting the toll of the heat and sun on your body will keep you healthy and active.
Until next week, flaunt your pattern and style and don’t forget to catch up with me on Twitter handle – @Yolisswa or WhatsApp +263774492700.
Online Reporter