STAY COOL, NATURALLY

Temperatures climb, and days grow longer. Summer is here, along with its annual wardrobe switch. But while lightweight clothing is a must, many find themselves sweating through synthetic fabrics that trap heat and cling uncomfortably to the skin. It is time to embrace the best cooling fabrics for summer: natural fabrics.

Linen, hemp, and organic cotton clothes are cooling on a hot summer day, but they are also a sustainable alternative for summer fabrics, thanks to renewable, eco-friendly production methods.

Using summer fabrics is in line with MUJI’s values of always proposing more durable, skin-sensitive garments, and products that are versatile, easy to wear and to hold onto. These natural fabrics were selected for their inherent benefits and their environmental characteristics, allowing you to dress the way you want to, while staying fresh, with environmentally-friendly materials. Summer has long been a favourite season for fashion, so why not make it sustainable too?

Why Fabric Choice Matters in Summer

The key to summer clothing is simple: air circulation. Unlike synthetic fibres, which can stifle your skin and lock in heat, natural materials are easily cooling summer fabrics, allowing air to move freely, wicking away moisture and keeping your body temperature stable. Your clothing should work with the climate, not against it - whether you're navigating city streets, relaxing by the sea or walking in the countryside. 

1. Breathable - Natural fibres have a porous structure, helping sweat evaporate rather than accumulate.

2. Soft - These fabrics are kind to sensitive summer skin, reducing the risk of chafing or irritation.

3. Sustainable - Sourced from renewable crops and often processed without harsh chemicals, natural summer fabrics are far less damaging to the environment.

4. Durable - The fabrics are high quality and long lasting, and meant to become staples of your wardrobes: they are durable materials, easy to care for, versatile and resistant enough so you keep and wear them season after season.

Linen - the classic summer staple

Linen is a go-to summer fabric: made from the flax plant, it is known for its exceptional breathability and subtle elegance. Its loosely woven fibres allow for maximum airflow, keeping you cool and collected even during the most intense heat waves.

A linen shirt is the cornerstone of any warm-weather wardrobe: crisp enough for a business meeting, relaxed enough for a seaside stroll. Likewise, linen trousers offer sophistication without sacrificing comfort. For city dwellers, a linen dress provides a chic solution that can take you from the office to a sunny rooftop terrace. 

Summer linen doesn’t stop at clothing, and will integrate into your interior as well. A linen bedding set (fitted sheet, duvet cover & pillow case) is perfect for your summer sleep by staying cool to the touch throughout the night. Lightweight, breathable, and stylish, linen is as functional as it is fashionable.

Hemp - the eco-conscious power fabric

Often overlooked, hemp fabric is nonetheless one of the most interesting materials for the summer season. This powerhouse plant requires little water, grows quickly, and thrives without chemical fertilisers, making it one of the most eco-friendly textiles on the planet.

Antimicrobial, lightweight, odour resistant. Hemp fabric stays fresh for long, and its natural properties make it easy to wear and easy to wash - and when blended with cotton, both fabrics’ benefits add up to make a highly efficient material that stays soft and easy on the skin.

Versatile and cooling in the summer, hemp adapts to you in all weather conditions, and protects your skin from heat and sun. It is a very interesting choice for those looking to build a sustainable wardrobe that doesn't compromise on performance or style.

Organic cotton - soft, pure and breezy

Cotton fibres are naturally soft and breathable, making them ideal for everyday clothing, and the perfect cooling summer fabric. But not all cotton fabrics are created equal: since 1999, MUJI has led the way in raising standards by using organic cotton and committed to 100% sustainable sourcing by 2023. 

Choosing organic cotton clothes has multiple benefits: unlike conventional cotton, which often relies on harmful pesticides and enormous water usage, organic cotton is grown using natural methods that enrich the soil and protect ecosystems. Organic cotton’s ultra-soft texture is perfect for sensitive skin, and its breathability makes it a fundamental choice during hot weather. 

From a basic cotton t-shirt to loose summer shorts, organic cotton clothes offer versatility, comfort. A fashion and home textile staple, organic cotton is always a good, refined, efficient choice.

Styling tips - from city street to seaside getaways

Summer style is often the easiest; but some guidelines can be useful. A few thoughtful choices can help fight the heat in style without sacrificing comfort.

The simple dress outfit - A loose-fitting hemp blend summer dress paired with sandals or comfortable trainers is the perfect, simplest outfit for brunch, errands, or an impromptu beach day.

Natural fabrics dressed up or down - A linen shirt matched with tailored hemp blend trousers can be styled up with loafers or down with trainers, offering flexibility for every summer occasion. Ironed linen is an elegant yet breathable choice, but it actually also works everyday even with a few wrinkles.

The easy cotton t-shirt - Pair a lightweight cool touch cotton T-shirt with breathable bottoms, such as hemp blend skirt or cotton shorts, for a relaxed, timeless ensemble.

Don’t forget accessories - A summer outfit is not right without the right accessories. MUJI’s hemp and cotton hat protects you from the sun with its natural heat-blocking property. For carrying your summer essentials, opt for a cotton tote bag: lightweight, breathable, and soft on the shoulder, it’s the perfect companion for those long summer days.

Stay Cool and Sustainable with MUJI’s natural fabrics

Summer style doesn’t have to be a trade-off between comfort, elegance, and ethics. By choosing natural summer fabrics like linen, hemp, and organic cotton, you’re investing in breathable, beautiful pieces, durable season after season.

These cooling fabrics are kind to your skin, allow air to flow, and reflect a deeper respect for the environment. In line with MUJI’s values, they are a great way to opt for textiles that help you look good, feel great, and do better for the planet.