What Not to Wear in Summer: Smart Choices for Irish Weather

When it comes to what not to wear in summer, the real issue isn’t style—it’s survival in Ireland’s unpredictable climate. It’s not about avoiding shorts or bright colors—it’s about skipping fabrics and designs that trap heat, hold moisture, or fall apart in a drizzle. Many people assume summer means light fabrics and bare legs, but in Ireland, that’s a recipe for shivering on a sunny afternoon or soaking through by lunchtime.

One big mistake? Wearing cotton, a fabric that absorbs sweat and dries slowly. Cotton t-shirts feel cool at first, but in Ireland’s damp air, they turn heavy and clingy. You’ll be colder than if you’d worn a lightweight synthetic blend or merino wool. Same goes for thin denim, which doesn’t repel rain and takes forever to dry. Lightweight jeans might look nice, but they’re a liability when the clouds roll in off the Atlantic. Another trap? flat sandals, the kind with no grip or support. Flip-flops might be fine on a Mediterranean beach, but on Dublin’s wet cobblestones or Galway’s muddy trails, they’re a slip hazard waiting to happen. You don’t need boots in July, but you do need shoes that stay on your feet and keep water out.

And let’s talk about layering. A lot of people think summer means one thin layer—and that’s why you see so many people shivering under umbrellas in June. The smart move? A light, packable windbreaker. Not a hoodie. Not a puffer. Something that folds into your bag and pulls on in five seconds when the wind picks up. Same with dresses: go for ones with a built-in liner or pair them with a breathable cardigan. It’s not about being overdressed—it’s about being ready.

You’ll find real, tested advice in the posts below. No guesswork. No trends that don’t survive a Dublin rainstorm. Just what Irish people actually wear—and what they avoid—when the sun finally shows up. Whether it’s why you shouldn’t wear white sneakers in Galway, or why a linen-blend top beats 100% cotton every time, you’ll see the patterns. And you’ll walk away knowing exactly what to skip this summer.