Arizona Heat Meets Style: How to Stay Cool and Look Sharp

If you’ve spent a single summer in Arizona, you know one thing for sure: the heat doesn’t play around. But just because temperatures soar doesn’t mean your style has to suffer. With the right materials, construction, and a few expert tricks, you can stay polished and put-together—without melting.

Whether you’re dressing for work, a wedding, or a casual dinner out, here’s how to stay stylish in the summer while keeping comfort front and center.

1. Choose Natural, Breathable Fabrics

The foundation of summer style starts with the right fabric. Synthetic materials trap in heat and sweat—the opposite of what you need in 100+ degree weather.

Best Summer Suit Fabrics:

Linen: Lightweight, airy, and perfect for casual settings or beach weddings.
Cotton: Soft, breathable, and versatile enough to dress up or down.
Tropical Wool: Don’t let the word "wool" fool you. This lightweight weave is breathable, wrinkle-resistant, and perfect for professional settings.
Seersucker: A classic summer staple with puckered texture that allows airflow.

At Artful Tailoring, we source the best of these fabrics for both our custom pieces and off-the-rack options—so you can breathe easy all summer long.

2. Go for Jackets with Half or No Lining

A big factor in how hot a jacket feels? The lining, especially if its polyester.

Fully lined jackets trap heat and reduce breathability. Instead, opt for:

Half-lined jackets: Our ready-made sportscoats feature this design to provide structure without the bulk.
Unlined or quarter-lined custom jackets: We use Bemberg lining, known for its breathability, durability, and cool to the touch smooth feel.

This small change can make a huge difference in keeping your body temperature regulated.

blue loro piana custom made half lined sportscoat

3. Consider Canvas Construction

Many assume fused jackets are lighter and better for summer, but canvas construction is actually more breathable and lasts much longer. Do you know which one your jackets are made with?

Full or half-canvas jackets allow air to move more freely through the layers.
Unlike fused jackets (which glue the fabric together), canvas conforms to your body over time and wears cooler in the heat.

Every Artful Tailoring custom jacket uses canvas construction—because quality matters even more in high temps.

4. Try a Vest Instead of a Full Suit

Want to keep the tailored look without layering a full jacket? A vest is your best friend.

Keeps you looking dressed up without the heat of a blazer
Pairs perfectly with dress trousers or chinos
Adds polish and structure without added bulk

You can even mix it up with a patterned or textured fabric for extra personality. Ask us about designing a custom vest to fit your warm-weather wardrobe.

5. Accessorize to Elevate (Without the Heat)

Accessories are a great way to add personality without layering on more clothing. Here are our favorite summer upgrades:

Suspenders: Ditch the belt and let your pants breathe. Suspenders are both functional and fashion-forward.
Bowties and lightweight ties: Fun patterns and breathable weaves like cotton or linen keep your look sharp without making you sweat.
Unlined loafers or leather sandals: Breathable footwear is key in the Arizona sun.

Want to explore accessories that complete the look? Visit our Chandler shop to see curated seasonal favorites.

6. Prioritize Fit

Even the lightest fabric won’t help if your clothes are too tight.

A tailored fit allows for airflow while avoiding clingy discomfort.
Looser does not mean baggy—it means proportional and breathable.
Sleeves, trousers, and shirt shoulders should all feel easy and mobile.

Our full-service tailoring ensures every piece, not matter if it’s custom or off-the-rack—fits just right.

Looking Sharp, Even in Triple Digits

Style doesn’t have to go out the window just because it’s hot outside. With the right fabrics, construction, and a few strategic swaps, you can stay cool while still looking polished.

Whether you need a summer-weight jacket, a custom vest, or ready-made options with breathable construction, Artful Tailoring has everything you need to stay stylish in the summer.

👉 Book a Consultation Today to explore summer suiting options made for the Arizona heat.