The Best Cooling Clothing That Will Keep You Comfortable All Summer Long

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Now that summer is in full swing, we’re constantly looking for ways to keep cool despite the rising temperatures outside. Whether you’re curious about comfortable loungewear that will keep you cool while you’re staying at home or you’re on the hunt for activewear to help regulate your body temperature while you’re on the trail, we’ve got you covered. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best cooling clothing for summer, from stylish dresses to quick-drying athletic shorts.

a woman in a dress: Courtesy of Amazon

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Courtesy of Amazon

Related: More summer must-haves

What exactly puts a clothing item in the “cooling” category, you might ask? In this case, we’re specifically looking at clothing that’s designed to be breathable, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying, so it will have no problem keeping up with you as you sweat. Plus, some items even have high-tech fibers that make the fabric cool to the touch for added comfort.

Keep reading for our favorite cooling clothing for the summertime.

ADAY Cool-Down Crop

a person standing posing for the camera: Courtesy of ADAY

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Courtesy of ADAY

When you think of clothing that is specifically designed to keep you cool, you probably picture lounge or activewear. Luckily, if you are aiming to dress up while remaining comfortable in the heat, ADAY’s summer line has just what you’re looking for. The Cool-Down Crop is a standout piece, with its chic v-neck and wrap style. It’s made from the brand’s soft, breathable Cool Weave fabric that’s made to keep you cool as your body heats up. It’s also moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and has a UPF rating of 50+.

a woman in a dress: Summer temperatures are no match for these cooling items

© Courtesy of Amazon
Summer temperatures are no match for these cooling items

To buy: thisisaday.com, $135

Columbia Freezer III Dress

a woman in a dress: Amazon

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Amazon

Shoppers rave about how comfortable this dress is to wear during the summer, thanks to moisture-wicking and advanced cooling technology. The stretchy, silk-smooth material feels cool to the touch, making it the perfect choice for particularly warm days.

To buy: amazon.com, columbia.com, from $25

Knix Thigh Saver 6″ Shorts

a woman posing for a picture: Courtesy of Knix

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Courtesy of Knix

If you live in sundresses during the summer, these shorts are a must-have, especially when temperatures are at a seasonal high. They’re made from a soft, breathable blend of nylon and lycra and they’re designed to eliminate chafing and sweat. The shorts are available in black and beige, so you’ll be sure to find an option that goes with all your favorite dresses this season.

To buy: knix.com, $36

CALIA by Carrie Underwood Women’s Anywhere Petal Hem Shorts

a woman wearing a dress: Courtesy of Dick's Sporting Goods

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Courtesy of Dick’s Sporting Goods

Whether you’re exercising in the summer heat or lounging around the house, these athletic shorts are help keep you cool and dry. They’re made with antimicrobial, sweat-wicking technology that pulls moisture away from the skin and allows it to evaporate quickly. The shorts also feature a lightweight, four-way stretch material and a back pocket that can fit a smartphone.

To buy: dickssportinggoods.com, $40

L.L.Bean Coolmax Nano Glide Multisport Socks

Courtesy of L.L.Bean

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Courtesy of L.L.Bean

Don’t forget about your feet when it comes to staying comfortable in the heat this summer. L.L.Bean’s CoolMax yarn regulates temperature, while mesh ensures breathability. These socks are especially helpful for hiking and other outdoor activities, since they feature cushioning in the heel and toes, as well as NanoGlide technology that helps minimize blisters.

To buy: llbean.com, $20 for pack of two

Lunya Cool Every Body Long Sleeve Tee

a person standing posing for the camera: Courtesy of Lunya

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Courtesy of Lunya

Luxe sleepwear brand has warm-weather lounge separates down to a science. Even on hot summer evenings, this long sleeve tee will do its part in helping you get a good night’s sleep. The shirt’s flowy, oversized fit and breathable, cotton material make for a comfortable feel on the body, while silver fibers keep you cool and dry.

To buy: lunya.co, $98

Columbia Zero Rules Short Sleeve Shirt

a person standing posing for the camera: Courtesy of Columbia

© Provided by Travel + Leisure
Courtesy of Columbia

This t-shirt is far more high-tech than it looks — it features Columbia’s Omni-Freeze ZERO technology, which cools you down as you sweat. This shirt also features UPF 30 sun protection, making it a solid option to wear on a day spent outdoors.

To buy: amazon.com, columbia.com, from $20

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Gallery: 10 Stylish Mini Backpacks With Just Enough Room for the Essentials (Travel + Leisure)

mini small backpacks

If there is one thing every traveler needs, it’s a backpack. Whether you’re toting it through the airport or using it as your day bag in a new city, it’s the ideal companion for a hands-free day. The perfect backpack is comfortable, lightweight, and practical, yet doesn’t compromise style. Mini backpacks are particularly trendy at the moment, because in today’s fast-paced world, carrying around less means the opportunity to do more.

There are all kinds of small backpacks that appeal to various style aesthetics — whether you’re looking for a sportier, more functional style you can take from city streets to nature trails or a more classic silhouette that lends itself to casual and dressy outfits. Then, there’s also the fashion backpack that functions as a key ingredient to your travel look. Some backpacks can even be worn multiple ways so you get a bag that’s 2-in-1.

No matter your style, we’ve rounded up the best small backpacks to travel with.

Madewell Mini Lorimer Backpack

The worn-in look of this cognanc leather mini backpack from Madewell gives it a distinctively vintage look. It’s also available in black.

To buy: madewell.com, $158

Herschel Supply Co. Mini Nova Backpack

Herschel’s classic style, minimized.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $50 (originally $55)

Longchamp Le Pliage Backpack

Always a crowd-favorite, Longchamp’s nylon backpack is durable and water-resistant. The best part? When you’re done using it, you can fold it up and store it in your suitcase.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $125

Tumi Serra Mini Convertible Backpack

For the classic traveler who’s looking for a sized-down version of their favorite backpack, Tumi’s Serra Mini Convertible Backpack has everything you’ll need.

To buy: tumi.com, $295

Cole Haan Grand Ambition Mini Backpack

Travel in style with this chic leather backpack with gold-tone hardware. Plus, interior and exterior pockets make it easier than ever to stay organized.

To buy: colehaan.com, $100 (originally $287)

Mifland Bedford Bag

This stylish, structured backpack is a miniature version of the brand’s signature bag. It has adjustable straps that allow you to carry it as a traditional backpack, as well as a crossbody and shoulder bag.

To buy: mifland.com, $290

Fjällräven Mini Kånken Water Resistant Backpack

The mini version of Fjällräven’s customer-loved backpack has just enough room for the essentials. It’s also made from durable, water resistant material, making it perfect for travel.

To buy: nordstrom.com, $70

Matt & Nat BRAVEMINI Mini Backpack

This mini backpack from Matt & Nat is perfect if you’re in the market for a vegan leather bag. It’s available in five colors, including this chic muted purple with industrial metal hardware.

To buy: mattandnat.com, from $94 (originally $125)