Summer Activities to Beat the Heat
Have fun and beat the heat this summer with these activities. We’ve put together a list of fun things to do when it’s hot outside, along with fashion tips and outfit ideas for each occasion. Here are our favorite activities to engage in when the temperature soars:
Go Swimming
If you can’t resist the outdoors, even in the dog days of summer, go swimming. Whether you prefer the pool or the beach, chlorine-resistant swimwear is a must-have. Chlorine-resistant one-piece swimsuits come in many styles, including the classic tugless tank. The fabric won’t shift even when swimming or playing water sports, so you can relax and have fun instead of adjusting your bathing suit.
Tankinis are another fashion option for swim days. They come in many styles—high-neck tankini tops for a modest look and retro-inspired bandeau styles. You’ll also find classic scoop-neck tankini tops and V-neck wrap styles that flatter every body type. When it comes to bathing suit bottoms, high-waisted bottoms and swim shorts provide ample coverage. You can also pair any tankini top with a swim skirt in your preferred length.
Rash guard cover-ups are another must-have for swimming. Cover-up dresses come in medium- and long lengths and short-sleeve and tank styles. Rash guard hoodies provide the most coverage and are lightweight and fast-drying. You can wear rash guard dresses, shirts, and jackets to the concession stand or beachfront restaurant or in between swim sessions while lounging on your beach towel.
Spend Time on a Boat
Boating is another summer-day activity that’s perfect for hot days. You may find it’s cooler on the water, especially if there’s a breeze blowing. The apparel guidelines for swimming apply to boating, too—think comfortable swimwear and rash-guard cover-ups. Even with sun protection swimwear and clothing, it’s imperative to wear sunscreen and sunglasses for eye protection against UV rays. Hats are another good idea, especially if you’re out on a boat.
For semi-dressy dinner cruises on warm evenings, summer dresses and wedge sandals are always a fashionable option. If you prefer a long dress over a midi dress, consider tiered maxi dresses for women in a sleeveless style and summery color or print. When it comes to footwear, boat shoes are a comfortable, practical style that goes with almost any outfit.
Take a Drive
No matter where you live, there’s likely a scenic route somewhere in the area. A leisurely drive with the windows down or the air conditioning on can be just the thing to beat the heat. Dress for a car ride in comfortable elastic-waist capri pants and a Supima cotton T-shirt. Canvas sneakers or any kind of flat-heeled slip-on shoe is a comfortable footwear style with any casual summer outfit. If you tend to get chilly in the evenings or air-conditioned environments, bring along a lightweight sweater.
See a Movie
Movie theaters are a great escape from the summer heat. As with air-conditioned vehicles, it may be a good idea to bring a summer sweater or lightweight jacket. Jean jackets are a stylish summer option for movie night, especially when you pair one with a mid-length fit-and-flare dress or comfy T-shirt dress. Also, button-front shirt dresses work for any casual occasion, whether you’re going to a movie or another entertainment venue.
Visit a Museum
Stay cool while enjoying some culture at a local museum. A sleeveless mock-neck top with white capris and heeled sandals is a casual yet elegant outfit idea. Or you can wear a simple sheath dress with short sleeves if you want a more formal look. For local art galleries with a laid-back vibe, wear a floaty maxi dress with slip-on shoes. You can even wear shorts to a museum or gallery; however, choose a structured knee-length style such as Bermuda shorts with a women’s white blouse.
Go for Ice Cream
Another way to stay cool during the summer is to stop by an ice cream parlor. Some establishments have air-conditioned interiors where you can sit and enjoy a frozen treat. Or you can hit a drive-through and head to the beach or park for scenery while you indulge in a frosty desert. When choosing your outfit, opt for a machine-washable top such as a cotton T-shirt or tank top. Cotton dresses are another good outfit idea for visiting an ice cream shop, as they’re lightweight and comfortable.
No matter what kind of cotton apparel you choose this summer, look for Supima cotton for the longest wear. This cotton type is grown in the USA in only a handful of states. It has a long-staple fiber that retains its shape and has twice the strength of regular cotton, plus it has excellent color retention properties for lasting vibrancy.
These are just some of the summer activities to consider on hot days. With a little planning, you can have fun this summer while looking and feeling great.