Rayon, Cotton or Linen? Choosing a Co-ord Fabric for Indian Summers

When the temperature climbs past 35°C, the fabric you wear matters more than the cut. The same shirt can feel like a breeze or a blanket depending on what it is made of. Most of our co-ord sets are made in one of three fabric families, rayon blends, cotton blends and linen blends, and each one suits a different kind of day.

Here is what each fabric feels like, how it handles heat and humidity, and how to care for it.

Linen and linen blends: the coolest in dry heat

Linen is woven from flax fibre. It is naturally crisp, lets air move through the weave easily and dries quickly, which is why it feels cool against the skin even on very hot days. A linen blend mixes linen with another fibre to soften the hand-feel and reduce some of the creasing, while keeping the airy texture.

Best for: hot, dry afternoons, travel, holidays and anyone who runs warm. Pieces like the Ovel linen-blend set and the Lara linen shirt and shorts set are made for exactly these days.

Good to know: linen creases naturally. That relaxed, slightly rumpled finish is part of its character. If you prefer it smooth, iron it while it is still slightly damp, or hang it in a steamy bathroom.

Cotton and cotton blends: the everyday all-rounder

Cotton is the fabric most of us grew up in, and for good reason. It is soft, breathable and absorbs sweat well, so it stays comfortable through a long, busy day. Cotton blends add a little smoothness or stretch and help the fabric hold its shape after washing.

Best for: office days, errands, college and everyday wear. A relaxed set like the Orvella ivory cotton-blend set or our printed cotton-blend shirts work from morning to night.

Good to know: cotton can feel heavier when it is soaked with sweat in very humid weather, and it can shrink slightly if washed hot. Cold washes keep it true to size.

Rayon blends: soft, fluid and made for prints

Rayon (also called viscose) is made from plant cellulose, usually wood pulp, that is processed into a soft fibre. It drapes and moves beautifully, feels smooth and cool when you first put it on, and takes dye very well, so prints look rich and colours stay vivid. That is why most of our printed co-ords, from Soft Bloom to GeoPop and Boho Royale, are made in soft rayon blends.

Best for: printed sets, flowing shirts and tunics, brunches and everyday wear when you want something that moves.

Good to know: rayon is more delicate when wet. Wash it in cold water, don’t wring it, and dry it in the shade. Our rayon care guide walks you through it step by step.

Side by side: which fabric should you choose?

Match the fabric to your weather

Dry heat (North India, May–June)

Choose linen and linen blends in light colours. Loose cuts, like a relaxed shirt with wide-leg pants or shorts, let air circulate.

Humid heat (coastal cities and the monsoon)

Pick lightweight cotton blends or soft rayon blends that dry quickly. Darker prints hide water spots on rainy days.

Air-conditioned offices

Cotton blends and rayon blends are comfortable in the cold indoors and the heat outdoors. Carry a light layer for meetings.

Does colour make a difference?

Yes. Light colours such as ivory, sage, sky blue and soft pink reflect more sunlight than black or navy, so they feel cooler outdoors in direct sun. Save deep shades for evenings and indoor plans. For more on every fabric we use, see our fabrics page.

Frequently asked questions

Which fabric is coolest for summer in India?

Linen and linen blends are usually the coolest, because the open weave lets air move and the fabric dries quickly. Lightweight cotton is a close second for everyday wear.

Is rayon good for summer?

Yes. Rayon is light, smooth and comfortable in warm weather, and it drapes well. Wash it gently in cold water to keep it soft and bright.

Why does linen crease so much?

Flax fibre has very little natural stretch, so it holds folds and creases. It is part of linen’s relaxed character. Ironing while slightly damp gives a smoother finish.

Does cotton shrink?

Cotton can shrink a little in hot water or a hot dryer. Washing in cold water and drying in the shade helps it keep its size.

Shop summer co-ord sets →