Looking for long-sleeve tops you can still wear when the weather heats up? No problem. I’m always excited to see the sun, but if you prefer to keep your arms covered up, summer can come with a sense of dread. Nearly all summer tops are sleeveless or strappy, but I promise it’s possible to find long-sleeve tops that don’t leave you sweating through them in the heat.
The sun isn’t always shining here in the UK, so there are plenty of opportunities to wear long-sleeve tops comfortably without feeling overdressed or sweaty. Whatever the reason you want to cover your arms, be it religion, scars or simply self-consciousness, there are so many styles of tops, shirts and blouses out there to suit your needs and leave you feeling at ease with your body.
A good way to cover up your arms is to wear open shirts over tank tops or opt for crop tops with high-waisted bottoms. If you’re comfortable showing off your legs, try shorts or opt for midi or maxi skirts if you want keep your skin covered. You can add chic accessories, a pair of summer sandals and of course, a straw bag.
Can you wear long sleeve tops in summer?
Absolutely! While you’ll definitely feel the coolest with your arms out, you don’t have to wear vest tops when the weather hots up. There are a number of long-sleeved tops that still work, like open shirts, cropped shirts or crochet or netted tops that allow your skin to breathe. Play with showing other parts of your body, like your shoulders, legs or tummy instead.
What type of long sleeve shirts are best for summer?
The most important thing to look for when shopping for tops that won’t leave you sweating are lightweight materials like cotton and linen. These are breathable and actually work to draw heat away from the body, which is ideal when the weather gets hot. You want to avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester, acrylic and nylon, as these do the exact opposite and actually trap the heat. Great in the colder months, not so great during a heatwave.
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Textured Off-The-Shoulder Top, £19.99, Zara
Textured Off-The-Shoulder Top, £19.99, Zara – buy now
At first glance, granted, this top might look a little toasty – but I love off the shoulder tops for showing a little bit of skin while keeping my arms covered. This is best for evenings out or those days when you’re not sure how the weather will turn out.
Flounced Chiffon Top, £14.99, H&M
Flounced Chiffon Top, £14.99, H&M – buy now
If you’re comfortable showing your tummy, you can find some seriously cute tops like this chiffon style from H&M that allow you to keep your arms covered without looking frumpy. This affordable top comes in white too!
Beaded Crochet Top, £75, Susan Fang x & Other Stories
Beaded Crochet Top, £75, Susan Fang x & Other Stories – buy now
& Other Stories just dropped its latest co-lab with Susan Fang, and this top is one of my favourite pieces. The crochet style means you can still feel the air on your skin, but you’re able to keep your arms covered up.
Lana Blouse – Broderie, £95, Damson Madder
Lana Blouse – Broderie, £95, Damson Madder – buy now
Broderie anglaise is another one of my secret weapons, as it’s pretty breathable, looks cute and is often designed to keep you covered. Damson Madder just keeps dropping the cutest pieces, like this adorable blouse. Get the shorts to complete the whole look!
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Blouse, £22.99, Lindex
Blouse, £22.99, Lindex – buy now
Every high street brand under the sun has a tie-front blouse these days (hello, Ganni dupes) and I’m seriously into them. They show off some skin but still allow you to keep those arms under wraps.
Brunch Babe Blouse, £118, Free People
Brunch Babe Blouse, £118, Free People – buy now
If you prefer a pop of colour like I do, you’ll probably love this pretty pink style from Free People. You can wear this over a vest top or bralette too if you’re nervous about wearing an open top.
Pure Linen Collared Popover Blouse, £39.50, M&S Collection
Pure Linen Collared Popover Blouse, £39.50, M&S Collection – buy now
As mentioned, linen is such a good bet for staying cool in the heat. This blouse from M&S keeps things interesting as its so colourful.
Cotton Broderie Layering Shirt, £125, Me+Em
Cotton Broderie Layering Shirt, £125, Me+Em – buy now
Another broderie option with an even longer sleeve comes from Me+Em. It’s definitely more on the formal side, but allows some air to pass through and keep your body temp down.
Sheila Blouse, £110, Sezane
Sheila Blouse, £110, Sezane – buy now
Lace works in the same way and shows a little bit of skin without you having to bare all.
Irene Green Vine Leaf Top, £125, KITRI
Irene Green Vine Leaf Top, £125, KITRI – buy now
Yep, it’s those ties again! The V-neck stops this blouse from looking too frumpy.
Moss Leopard Silk Blouse, £175, Rixo
Moss Leopard Silk Blouse, £175, Rixo – buy now
This Rixo blouse shows a hint of skin at the forearms and neckline, but keeps the upper arms covered up. I love the tie around the neck for something a little bit different.
Relaxed Shirt with Linen, £26, ASOS DESIGN
Relaxed Shirt with Linen, £26, ASOS DESIGN – buy now
If you’re comfortable to show your legs off, it’s a great way to keep yourself cool while still covering your upper half. This co-ord is gorgeous, not to mention affordable.
Bonnie Linen Top, £125, Boden
Bonnie Linen Top, £125, Boden – buy now
This lovely linen top from Boden is giving serious holiday vibes. I can picture this with a pair of denim shorts and sandals on a hot summer’s day.
Open-Sleeve Blouse, £85, COS
Open-Sleeve Blouse, £85, COS – buy now
If you’re happy to show a little bit of arm, this open-sleeve blouse could be the perfect solution!
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