Summers in Pakistan are long, hot and, in cities like Karachi, very humid. Babies and toddlers can't tell us when they feel too warm, so what they wear makes a real difference to how comfortable, and how happy, they are through the day.
1. Start with a breathable fabric
Choose natural, lightweight fabrics that let air move and soak up sweat. Fine cotton weaves like lawn are a popular choice in Pakistan for exactly this reason: they're thin, soft and dry quickly. Avoid polyester and heavy blends on hot days. They trap heat against the skin and can leave little ones sticky and irritable.
2. Go loose, not tight
2. Go loose, not tight
A slightly roomy frock with an easy neckline lets air circulate around the body. Look for:
- flutter or short sleeves rather than tight cuffs,
- soft elastic waists on shorts and bloomers, and
- no heavy embellishment, lace backing or thick linings in the hottest months.
A frock-and-shorts set works especially well for crawlers and new walkers: the shorts keep them covered while the frock stays airy.
3. Pick light colours for outdoor time
Pastels and light prints absorb less sunlight than dark colours, so they feel cooler outdoors. Save darker or richer shades for evenings and indoor occasions.
4. Dress for the AC, too
4. Dress for the AC, too
Many homes switch between a hot veranda and an air-conditioned bedroom. Keep a thin cotton cardigan or muslin wrap nearby rather than dressing your baby in heavier clothes all day. One extra layer you can add or remove beats an outfit that's too warm half the time.
5. Keep a spare set handy
Sweat, spills and lunch happen, and a damp outfit quickly gets uncomfortable in humid weather. A spare frock set in the nappy bag means you can change your little one as soon as she feels damp.
6. Night-time dressing
At night, one light cotton layer is usually enough in summer. If your baby's neck or back feels sweaty, she's likely too warm. Remove a layer or lower the room temperature. Avoid bundling babies in thick blankets during hot weather.
7. Care that keeps clothes comfortable
Wash new clothes before first wear, use a mild detergent, and dry them in the shade so prints stay bright. Soft, well-washed cotton feels even gentler against delicate skin.
A quick summer checklist
- Breathable cotton or lawn fabric
- Loose fit with an easy neckline
- Light colours for outdoor time
- A thin layer for AC rooms
- A spare outfit in the bag
Looking for summer-ready outfits? Our lawn frock and shorts sets are made for hot days, in sizes from 12 months to 2.5 years. Not sure about sizing? See our size guide.
This guide is general clothing advice. If your baby seems unwell in the heat (unusually sleepy, feeding poorly, or very hot to the touch), contact your doctor.
