How To Ace Effortless And Lightweight Summer Layers

Layering in summer? No, we haven't lost our mind due to the excessive heat!

While it may seem perfectly legal to strip down to bare skin, one can actually be more comfortable with more clothing. Trust us, super lightweight layering in breathable textiles will not only shield you from the UV rays, the boxy cuts can help actually keep you cool and ventilated.

Picture a tucked in tank top and a cotton-poplin overshirt. Easy breezy yet dressy! Vedang Raina recently sported a cotton short-sleeved Oxford shirt layered over an undershirt and offset with a pair of denim shorts, trainers and a Palm tree patch cap - all from Louis Vuitton.

As far as extra layers go, one can’t possibly go wrong with a super lightweight knitted sweater. Pick one with slightly ripped stitches and fabrics with ample temperature regulation qualities. At the Gucci cruise held in Florence, Paul Mescal sported a white knitted tee layered over a cropped jumper featuring an asymmetrical V-neck. The Gladiator hottie offset the ensemble with a leather belt and black trousers as he strolled down the Florentine cobblestone.

If knitwear is a bit much for you then chore jackets or overshirts work wonderfully. They look statement-making adding just the right amount of polish without making you feel uncomfortable. A great reference point could be The Batman heartthrob Robert Pattinson, who exemplified masterful summer tone on tone layering under the Côte d'Azur sun. Layering a buttercup yellow crew neck with a chambray shirt layered over a brown chore jacket, R-Patz channelled Riviera chic to a T in a Dior ensemble.

Also worth mentioning is actor Pedro Pascal's attire. The Last Of Us actor radiated a cool dad energy as he showed up in a cotton twill blouson from Bottega Veneta layered over a white tee at Cannes while accessorising the look with an Andiamo sling tote.

This season, heritage brands like Canali have explored the concept of absolute lightness, brought to life through ultra-light, comfortable garments. Crafted from ultra-light nylon and cotton-cashmere jersey, the Italian label's Spring Summer 25 pieces root for exceptional comfort besides enhanced breathability and durability. Among the homegrown labels, Nicobar offers layering ensembles in breathable separates. Aparna Chandra, Co-creative Director, Nicobar suggests that it’s best to opt for breathable layers like an airy cotton shirt over a tee or a light linen overshirt. "The key is to incorporate relaxed silhouettes and natural fabrics while styling oneself that allow for ease and movement. Linen, cotton, and their blends are ideal for summer as they are naturally lightweight, airy and breathable," she shares. Sticking to soft neutrals, pastels, and earthy tones is ideal as it tends to reflect heat and feels easier on the eyes. "They also pair well with relaxed silhouettes for an effortless summer look," she adds.

Arun Kumar, Head of Design at Rare Rabbit suggests focusing on lightness while layering. "Go for base layers like sleeveless or short-sleeved tees, or even a tank top. If you want to play with texture, mesh is a great option too. They’re breathable and won’t trap heat. Now, when it comes to your top layer, add layers like open-front shirts, lightweight button-downs, or overshirts you can leave unbuttoned. Something you can throw on and leave open, so you get the structure of layering without trapping heat," says Arun.

Textile-wise, stick with breathable, natural fabrics. Cotton, linen, chambray denim, khaki, and even lightweight silk are your best options. These materials allow air to flow and help wick away moisture, so you stay cool and dry throughout the day. As for colour, lean into light and soft tones. "Summers are for pastels. Colours like white, powder pink, butter yellow, and baby blue. Earthy neutrals like beige also work beautifully; they reflect sunlight and pair easily with just about anything. Remember, the goal is to look sharp without sacrificing comfort. Play with texture, layer lightly, and keep your palette soft and easy," he adds.

Most importantly, have fun with layering and make the most of these carefree summer months.

Summer Layers To Keep You Sool And Chic

Dior

Layer a brown jacket over a poplin shirt and a buttercup yellow tee like R-Patz did at Cannes. Leave the layers untucked nonchalantly and throw on a pair of lace-up trainers. Doesn't get more South of France than this!

Gucci

Paul Mescal knows the power of lightweight summer knits. He layered a white ribbed one with a solid jumper at the Gucci show in Florence. All in all, a polished look for lunch under the Tuscan sun.

Nicobar

Offset a solid tee in a bold hue with a neutral overshirt and complete your look with sunnies. An apt look for a day out in the sun.

Canali

Embrace soothing shades of nature by clashing a muted green with a neutral crew neck inside. Perfect for entertaining friends at home.

Rare Rabbit

Go tone on tone by layering with hues in the same family of colours. An ideal look for a hike or a safari.