Dressing at twenty five degrees

Short answer: Loose and light coloured. At twenty five degrees the fabric should not lie close to the skin, because air between fabric and skin is what cools.

Why loose beats close fitting

A loose garment lets air move between the fabric and the skin. That movement evaporates the sweat, and evaporation is the body's only real cooling technique. A close fitting garment blocks it.

Colour matters too

Light colours reflect sunlight, dark ones absorb it. In direct sun the difference at the skin can be several degrees. See bamboo t-shirts for women.

The underwear beneath

A thin layer that absorbs sweat is better than none, because it keeps the sweat away from the outer clothes. See bamboo underwear for men and bamboo shorts for women.

Frequently asked questions

Is a dress cooler than shorts

Often yes, because air can circulate freely underneath.

Why is white cooler

Because it reflects the sun's rays instead of absorbing them.

Should you avoid synthetic fabric

In the heat yes. It does not carry moisture away as well.