The Properties of Cotton, Satin, and Elastane: Which Fabric Works Best for Summer Outfits?

Cotton – Discover Natural Lightness

There’s a reason cotton has remained one of the most popular summer fabrics for years. It’s a natural plant fiber known for its excellent breathability and moisture-absorbing properties. Thanks to these qualities, cotton is often said to “breathe” with your skin – light, natural, and without compromise.

Cotton dresses, skirts, and blouses offer a pleasant sense of airflow and comfort. Especially in summer, when city streets are drenched in heat and you’re headed for an iced coffee with a friend or a quick shopping trip, you want to feel fresh and light. A comfortable outfit can make every summer moment more enjoyable.

Style tip from Sheila: For active summer days, go for styles made from thin, high-quality cotton. The lighter and more breathable the weave (like batiste or muslin), the more comfortable it feels – no sticky fabric clinging to your skin. You can also look for clothing that contains 2–5% elastane. That’s the ideal amount to improve fit without compromising breathability.

And speaking of elastane...

100% Elastane – Is It a Good Choice for Summer?

Let’s start by clarifying what elastane actually is and how it affects comfort in summer clothing. Elastane, also known as spandex or lycra, is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity. In practical terms, this means garments with elastane fit your body perfectly, allow full freedom of movement, and keep their shape better. They also do a great job of accentuating feminine curves!

But is clothing made entirely of elastane a good option for summer? Not really. Pure elastane doesn’t provide much breathability or air circulation, so in hot weather it works best as a blend with natural fibers like cotton, viscose, or satin made from natural sources. In practice, adding 2–5% elastane helps clothing drape beautifully on the body, wrinkle less, and feel more comfortable day-to-day – all without the unpleasant “sticky” feeling on hot skin.

Style tip from Sheila: When picking out summer clothes, pay close attention to fabric composition. Styles with a small amount of elastane (2–5%) combine comfort with a great fit. But avoid items made entirely of elastane, especially in high heat, when breathability and ventilation are essential to staying comfortable.

Satin – A Touch of Glamour That Elevates Your Summer Look

For years, satin has been associated with luxury and feminine sensuality. But it’s worth knowing that satin isn’t actually a fabric type – it’s a weaving technique that gives the fabric its signature sheen on one side and a matte finish on the other. Interestingly, satin can be made from a variety of fibers, both natural and synthetic. And the type of fiber is what really determines whether satin will be your summer ally.

Satin made from natural fibers like silk or high-quality cotton is lightweight, breathable, and pleasantly cool to the touch. It’s perfect for evening events, weddings, or romantic dinners when the temperature starts to dip and you want to shine in a stylish, feminine look. On the other hand, satin made from synthetic fibers (like polyester) tends to be less breathable, can trap heat, and might make you feel uncomfortable during hot weather.

Style tip from Sheila:
If you’re dreaming of a subtle shimmer and light elegance this summer, go for satin made from natural fibers – silk, viscose, or premium cotton. These fabrics not only look stunning but also ensure comfort even on the hottest of days.