The Most Inappropriate Colours to Wear in a Heatwave

Choosing the wrong clothing colour during a heatwave can significantly affect your comfort. While fabric type, fit, and moisture management are equally important, colour influences how much solar radiation your clothing absorbs.

Dark shades generally absorb more sunlight, causing fabrics to heat up faster than lighter alternatives. However, colour alone does not determine thermal comfort—breathable materials such as linen and lightweight cotton remain essential.

This guide explains the colours that are least suitable during extreme heat and why replacing them with lighter shades can help you stay cooler.