Do Black Clothes Make You Feel Hotter in Summer? Expert Explains

Summer is the time of excessive sun exposure and dehydration. Whenever you step outside, sweating is inevitable. To avoid this, people carry water bottles, wear shades and hats as well. Some people prefer white or light-colored clothes due to this reason, and completely avoid black outfits. Do black clothes actually make you feel hotter? Read on to know the answer.

To understand this better, we reached out to Dr Brunda M S, Senior Consultant , Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore.

Can Black Clothes in Summer Raise Body Temperature?

Dr Brunda says that many people believe that wearing black clothes in summer makes the body much hotter, and there is some truth to this. “Black clothing absorbs more sunlight and heat compared to lighter colours such as white, beige, or pastel shades. Because black absorbs a wider range of light wavelengths, the fabric can become warmer when exposed to direct sunlight,” she adds.

The expert continues, “However, the effect on body temperature is not always straightforward. Several factors influence how hot a person feels, including the type of fabric, the fit of the clothing, humidity levels, air circulation, and the amount of time spent outdoors.”

Which Clothes Can Keep Your Body Cool in Summer?

Dr Brunda says that loose-fitting clothes made from breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen can help the body stay cooler, even if the clothing is dark in colour. 

“Light-coloured clothes reflect more sunlight and generally keep the fabric surface cooler. This is why white and other light shades are often recommended during hot weather. In direct sunlight, black clothing may feel warmer to the touch and may increase heat absorption from the environment,” she adds.

“At the same time, some studies suggest that loose black clothing can allow heat to dissipate effectively, especially when there is good airflow between the fabric and the skin. This may explain why dark-coloured robes are traditionally worn in some hot desert regions. The design and material of the clothing can be just as important as the colour itself. To stay comfortable during summer, it is advisable to wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable fabrics. Staying hydrated, seeking shade when possible, and avoiding prolonged exposure to the midday sun are also important measures to prevent overheating,” explains the expert.

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Conclusion

Wearing black clothes alone is unlikely to cause a significant rise in core body temperature in healthy individuals. However, black clothing can absorb more solar heat and may make a person feel hotter when standing in direct sunlight for long periods. Therefore, while black clothes do absorb more heat, fabric choice, clothing style, and environmental conditions play a larger role in determining overall comfort and body temperature during summer.