COMMUTER CHIC

Staying cool, from one Tube Girl to another

“Tube Girl” Sabrina Bahsoon, because duh.

October is here, y’all. It’s time to be knee-deep in hearty soups at home and candlelit pints at the pub. So we bring out our croc leather, our Uggs, our afghans, and our cable knits to ring in the new season…only to peel them off furiously in a rush and hope to god none of the other AirPodded travelers can notice your hairline getting slick/the crease of boob sweat on your white tee.

As a public transport survivor – dead serious here – I’ve learned I need to adjust my outfits not with the weather, but based on what bus or tube I’m taking (and at what time of day). A hoe may never get cold while briskly walking to work, but she will absolutely be uncomfortably hot as one of dozens of sardines on the Victoria line screeching through central London. Help yourself out and be one less armpit someone smells before they’ve even had their first cup of coffee.

But before we get to the clothes, let’s state the obvious. Just bring deodorant!! Swiping on at the beginning of the day just isn’t enough, folks. You’re probably lugging a massive tote around the city anyway, so just squeeze a lil travel size companion to touch up throughout the day. Maybe spray the sweaty, manspreading gym bro sitting next to you while you’re at it.

When it comes to quality, use pieces that are either 100% natural/organic or have as little synthetic blended into its fibers as possible. Polyester and other synthetic materials aren’t built to adjust to changes with your body – oftentimes, you’ll find they actually work against it. Super fun for those of us with skin sensitivity. On the flip side, organic or eco-fabrics are hypoallergenic, particularly if they aren’t treated with toxic chemicals in the final stages of production. It’s also just better in the long run for a closet with minimal climate impact. They even have a higher resistance to bacteria and fungus, which is totally the name of the game in the Underground if you ask me. I hope to never find out what filth is taking a ride on the Piccadilly line.

Alright material gworls! There needs to be a protection barrier between you and your leather, be it your bag or a jacket. Even if it’s light on layers with a simple tank underneath, your skin won’t have any breathing room and the leather will trap and overheat. Wedging a loose button-up or something light with long sleeves in between ensures a less sticky commute; and if you do have to ditch the leather mid-travel, at least you’ll still have a look that is weather appropriate once you’re back outside.

I know I’m writing a how-to on avoiding overheating on public transport, but understand this one is less about temperature than it is about hygiene: if you’re sitting, your bottoms should be long enough to cover any skin that would be exposed to a seat that has sat millions of thighs before you. A skirt is definitely more breathable, but unless you’re wearing a sickening amount of mohair it’s best to focus the layering on top and keep it classic and covered on bottom.

With these notes in mind, here’s what I’ve seen lately for curating easy-peasy, breathable layers safe for your next commute (of course, once tube strikes have wrapped up):

Airy fits via Pinterest

My next post will be a follow-up to this quick bite, detailing knitwear trends as well as a deep dive into materials like mohair, cashmere and wool. I’m looking forward to it!

See ya then!!!

Ryann x