Fashion
The best fabrics for hot summer days, and other style advice
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Fashion
The best fabrics for hot summer days, and other style advice
Plus the best at-home self-tanners, a must-have summer top and does spray sunscreen actually work?
EDITOR'S TIP
When the mercury hits 30-plus, it's best to avoid synthetic fabrics such as rayon and polyester; instead, opt for natural materials like linen and cotton, which are breathable and absorb wetness. But did you know that flimsy fabrics should also be on the banned list? Lightweight clothing is decent for warm weather, but as temperatures approach sweltering, you need to have some structure to your material so it doesn't cling to your body when the inevitable sweat starts trickling down.
STYLISH STEAL
Tunic, $29, joefresh.com.
No wardrobe is complete without an embroidered tunic. This timeless staple is effortless and carefree—great for your next weekend getaway.
TO SPRAY OR NOT TO SPRAY?
Ombrelle Ultra Light Advanced Body Lotion Continuous Spray SPF 60, $20, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
"Spray sunscreens work just as well as creams, but people aren't applying them correctly. I tell my patients to start with a cream sunscreen as a base, then to touch up with a spray. Sprays are also great for the scalp. There's lots of sun damage on the scalp; it's really disproportionate to [the damage] you see on the face." - Dr. Julia Carroll, dermatologist, Toronto.
WE TRIED IT: SELF-TANNER
If you're a beginner
Jergens Natural Glow 3 Days to Glow Moisturizer, $13, shoppersdrugmart.ca.
Not ready to try a full-on sunless tanner? Try this gradual-glow moisturizer; it's the perfect gateway self-tanner. It gave us a subtle colour adjustment after the three days of continuous use, without any odour caused by DHA (a.k.a. dihydroxyacetone), the active ingredient in self-tanners.
Checklist: moisturizing, economical, foolproof
If you're time-strapped
Vita Liberata Ten Minute Tan, $49, sephora.ca.
If you're new to self-tanning, this buildable tanner is a great entr point; just apply the foolproof organic formula 10 minutes before you shower. Once the cream is washed away, the faux tan continues to develop over eight hours, leaving a streak- and transfer-free golden glow (minus any weird smell).
Checklist: odour-free, skin benefits, fast-acting
If you're a self-tanning aficionado
St, Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mist, $50, thebay.com.
This mist is the latest from the Rolls-Royce of self-tanning brands. The adjustable formula goes on with a guide colour and deepens the longer you let it develop on your skin before showering: One hour gives a light glow; two hours provides a medium tan; and three hours bestows a deep sun-kissed colour.
Checklist: long-lasting, customizable, weightless
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