When the sun is shining and temperatures soar, finding the right outfit can feel like a balancing act - especially if you prefer a modest style. Staying comfortably covered while keeping cool is entirely possible, and with a few clever fabric choices, silhouettes, and styling tips, you can breeze through warm weather days without compromising your values, or your fashion sense.
We believe in style that supports you, whatever the season. Our range of modest dresses is designed with real women in mind, offering breathable fabrics, flattering fits, and elegant detailing that’s ideal for sunny strolls, garden gatherings or even summer holidays abroad.
Let’s explore how to stay cool and stylish during sun-filled days, with modesty always in mind.
The Challenge: Staying Covered Yet Cool
We’ve all been there - caught between the desire to stay sun-safe and modest while wishing we could wear something light and airy in the height of summer. While strappy tops and short shorts flood high street shop windows, it can feel like modest fashion is left out of the seasonal style equation.
But modest dressing and summer sun don’t have to be at odds. In fact, covering up can be one of the best ways to protect your skin from UV rays. The key lies in fabric choice, cut, and clever layering to keep air flowing freely and help your skin breathe, even under the hottest rays.
Fabric Focus: Breathable Loose Weaves
When it comes to summer-friendly modest fashion, fabric is everything. Breathable, natural fibres allow air to circulate while helping to wick moisture away from the skin. We prioritise quality materials that feel light and fresh all day long.
Cotton Voile is a standout choice. This semi-sheer, plain weave cotton is feather-light and has a soft, crisp drape that’s ideal for loose-fitting summer dresses. Its breathable structure allows heat to escape, making it a top pick for garden parties, beach days, or city strolls.
Bamboo Jersey is another favourite. Silky-smooth with a touch of stretch, bamboo fabric is naturally antibacterial and thermoregulating - meaning it keeps you cooler when it’s warm and warmer when it’s cool. It’s also incredibly soft against the skin, making it perfect for those with sensitivities or who prefer non-synthetic fibres.
Other reliable summer fabrics include linen blends, which combine linen’s natural cooling properties with other fibres like cotton or viscose for a less wrinkle-prone finish.
Silhouette Secrets: High Necklines, Elbow Sleeves, Midi Hems
Choosing the right silhouette can make a huge difference to how comfortable and stylish you feel. For modest summer dressing, the trick is to aim for loose, flowing shapes that skim the body without clinging.
High necklines not only protect the delicate chest and collarbone area from the sun but also offer timeless elegance. From soft cowl styles to structured mock necks, a higher neckline keeps your look polished without feeling stuffy.
Elbow-length sleeves are another smart summer pick. Offering more coverage than a cap sleeve without the heat retention of full-length arms, they strike the perfect balance between modesty and breathability. Look for flutter sleeves, kimono shapes or soft dropped shoulders for added airiness.
Midi hems are wonderfully versatile. Falling below the knee but above the ankle, they offer excellent coverage without feeling heavy or restrictive. Whether you're moving through a busy day of errands or relaxing in the garden, a midi-length dress flows easily with your body and provides all-day comfort.
Many of our favourites, like the Brindisi Cowl Neck Linen Dressor the Alessandra Crinkle Cotton Dress, combine these features into beautifully breezy pieces you’ll reach for time and again.
Clever Layering: Slips and Cooling Undershirts
While layering might sound counterintuitive in the summer, lightweight, breathable base layers can actually improve your comfort on hot days. The trick is to choose ultra-thin, moisture-wicking options that sit smoothly beneath your dress and help prevent fabric from sticking to your skin.
Cooling undershirts made from bamboo or modal can act as a barrier between your skin and outer garments, keeping you feeling dry and confident. They’re especially useful under lighter-coloured dresses or more sheer fabrics like cotton voile.
Similarly, lightweight slips (either full-length or half-length) can add modesty under floaty dresses while helping everything drape more cleanly. Look for seamless designs in neutral tones for the most invisible finish.
Many women find that layering this way not only keeps them cooler but also adds longevity to their summer wardrobe, enabling them to wear slightly sheer or lighter pieces with ease.
Finishing Touches: Scarves, Hats and Accessories
No summer look is complete without the right accessories - and when dressing modestly, these finishing touches can enhance both your style and your sun protection.
Lightweight scarves in breathable fabrics like cotton, viscose or silk blends can be worn in countless ways - draped over the shoulders, tied as a headwrap or even belted over a dress for shape. Choose prints that echo the colours of your outfit for a harmonious finish or go bold with a pop of colour to brighten up your look.
Wide-brimmed hats offer both elegance and essential protection from harsh rays. Whether you prefer a structured straw hat or a more bohemian floppy brim, a good sun hat can elevate your outfit instantly while shielding your face and neck from the sun.
Don’t forget sunglasses, an underrated style essential that adds polish while protecting your eyes. And when it comes to footwear, breathable sandals or espadrilles made from natural fibres keep your feet cool while complementing a modest summer ensemble.
Staying stylishly modest in the summer is not only possible - it’s enjoyable with the right wardrobe staples. By choosing breathable fabrics like cotton voile and bamboo jersey, leaning into flowing silhouettes with modest coverage, and adding thoughtful layers and accessories, you can feel both elegant and at ease through the warmest of days.
We’re proud to support women who dress with intention and grace. Our collections are designed to make modest dressing feel joyful, effortless, and stylish - no matter the season. So the next time the forecast promises sunshine, reach for your favourite modest dress, add a sun hat and scarf, and step out in confidence.
