Our Best Ways to Stay Cool

Heat in the South is not for the weak, but we just love when those first sweltering days come through. Whether you’re out buying extra fans or putting a cold rag on your neck, we all have ways to survive the warm weather. Our heat is serious business! With temperatures rising across the country, we’ll share some of our best tips on staying cool through a gorgeous Southern summer.

Nothing cools off a sweaty day like a dip in cool water. Whether you’re close enough to a beach or have a pool in the backyard, there is no better way to beat the heat than to put on a stylish bathing suit and take a dip. You’ll give yourself time to relax and enjoy the day. And if you don’t have a pool or beach of your own, it might be time to make a new friend. Just be sure it’s a friend with a nice big pool in the back.

I know we’ve all heard this before, but nothing is more important in the summer heat than drinking lots of water. But don’t just take our word for it. The Harvard School of Public Health says, “Drinking enough water each day is crucial to regulate body temperature.” So not only will water keep you from getting heatstroke on a 90-degree day, but it will also help you feel cooler. That’s a win-win if you ask us.

And while we all love our sweet tea, mixing some non-sugared liquids in there is also important. Try unsweetened tea or water with some lemons, berries, cucumber, or ginger. Your body will thank you for that cool hydration.

We love a good hustle and bustle as much as the next person, but it might be time to relax in the shade when that summer heat is just too much. Slow down your day with a cold drink on the porch swing, chat with friends under a huge beach umbrella, or hide under a wide-brimmed hat for a well-deserved nap. Give yourself that shady break. You earned it.

In the South, our clothes change right along with the weather. If you’re new to this kind of heat, it’s time to switch up that wardrobe. Trade the dark colors and tighter fits of winter for loose, light-colored clothing. No one wants sweaty, tight sleeves clinging to their arms. We also love natural fabrics like linen and cotton. But we’re not asking you to sacrifice your Southern style; a nice, loose-fitting white dress will keep you stylish and cool no matter how hot the sun gets.

Whether you’re beating the heat with air conditioning or a cool breeze on the porch, we hope you’re enjoying this beautiful Southern weather. We’ll get through the heat with a lot of water, some cool clothes, and a whole bunch of Southern charm. The heat might not be for everyone, but it sure is for us.