Staying Dry In The Florida Rain
The unfortunate Florida rain season is fast approaching, and before we know it, there will be some type of rainfall everyday for at least two months . The rain is so terrible the summer heat becomes the least of our worries. The easiest way to combat the rain (and the heat) is to wear clothing that is dries quickly if you were to get caught in a storm or from your sweat. The best fabrics to wear are polyester, cotton, linen, and silk. The textiles to avoid in the Florida summer are rayon and nylon as they retain water for longer periods of time, thus not drying as quickly as the others listed above.
But sometimes you simply don’t want to be wet at all, and that is totally understandable. So, here are a few waterproof items to add to your closet this season.
The Raincoat
The raincoat is the easiest way to stay dry when making it from the inside the store to in the car. The majority raincoats on the market are… how do you say this nicely? Drab. Most are shapeless and have no pizzazz. However, there are some that can make you still look like the fashionista you are or are striving to be. The clear raincoat is always a stylish option. It creates a futuristic aesthetic without feeling too streetwear or The Jetsons. One with a black tint is less in your face with a touch of edgy flare. A clear coat with a vibrant, colorful print rides the line of bold and exciting. But for who prefer an understated style, then finding a neutral raincoat that accentuates the waist with a tie or tailored finish is the way to go. It’s an effective way to stay dry while maintaining a feminine figure.
Sandals
Rainbows are cute up north in the spring where the weather is cooler and you can afford to have your food and ankle covered. But the Florida rains season is in the middle of summer, and any type of boot is not going to fly. Sneakers are always acceptable for the heat, but aren’t equipped for the rain, leaving the sandal as your only option. And the best tip of sandal to chose is one with no fabric, cork or metal finishes. Fabric and cork will absorb water, taking longer for it to dry and any metal finishes might tarnish from the water since it’s not sterling silver or gold plated. To spice up your sandal game, choose shoes with a pop of color or unique design. A metallic finish is also a great way to add a subtle wow factor to your outfit. And colors like navy, burgundy, red, or army green are unique alternatives to black, brown, tan, and white.
Hats
The day you walk out of a building and there’s a surprise downpour outside might be the same day of a fresh blowout or twist out on day one. Carrying a cute hat in your daily bag might just be the thing that saves your new hairdo. Similar to the raincoats, a clear hat weather with a pop of color or not is funky that will be sure to elevate an outfit instead of bringing it down. Again, the clear may not be everyone’s favorite. If that’s the case, then choose a hat in a color that suits your skin tone or a neutral shade that that a less blah shape to it. The brim on the example to the right has a bit more character than your standard rain hat.
Purses
The idea of a waterproof bag besides the clear ones currently trending — who wants to always have their personal items on display? — isn’t really a thing. The puffer purse is a cute option for those who like this style. However, I understand the reviews are mixed. An alternative to those who want to wear their usual daily bags but don’t want to ruin them, especially if you payed a lot for it, is to invest in a purse cover. It’s not the most stylish option, but it will keep your dry, is easily foldable to fit inside most purses, and is extremely affordable.
Umbrellas
And we can’t discuss fashionable ways to stay dry without discussing the umbrella. This seems like a no brainer, but there are few things to consider when deciding on what style is right for you. I keep bringing it up, but the clear fabric is cool and here to stay. It’s a bold style that really does elevate a look. On the other end, a classic black umbrella can never go wrong. It’s effortless and chic. A large black umbrella screams drama without making you seem like a drama queen. And for the fun-loving individual who is in between, a vibrant red will surely catch some eyes, especially if your closet is fairly neutral.
Excluding sandals, every category had an option where the garment was made out of a clear material. If it’s not for you, that is totally okay. But if you’ve been interested in trying the style, then do it! There are also plenty of other options as well. The most important thing is that the item adds to your outfit whether it be through construction as in raincoats and hats, design or color. Wishing you the best of luck this rain season. Stay dry!