What Do Clothes Look Like in a Climate-Changed Future?
If you think dressing for the weather is hard now, wait until you see what the future holds. Climate change is not only making the planet hotter, but also more unpredictable, with extreme events like heat waves, floods, droughts and storms becoming more frequent and intense. So how will we adapt our wardrobe to cope with these challenges? Here are some possible scenarios and suggestions for what to wear in a climate-changed future.
Scenario 1: The Heat Is On
Imagine living in a world where the average temperature is 4°C higher than today, and some regions experience heat waves of over 50°C. How do you stay cool and comfortable in such conditions? Here are some tips:
– Choose natural fabrics like cotton, linen and hemp that are breathable and absorb sweat.
– Avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon that trap heat and moisture.
– Wear light colors that reflect sunlight and dark colors that absorb it.
– Opt for loose-fitting clothes that allow air circulation and avoid tight clothes that cling to your skin.
– Wear hats, sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from UV rays and sunburns.
– Carry a water bottle and a fan to hydrate yourself and cool yourself down.
Scenario 2: Water World
Imagine living in a world where sea levels have risen by several meters, flooding coastal cities and islands. How do you stay dry and safe in such conditions? Here are some tips:
– Choose waterproof fabrics like nylon, polyester and Gore-Tex that repel water and dry quickly.
– Avoid fabrics like wool, silk and leather that absorb water and take long to dry.
– Wear layers that can be easily added or removed depending on the temperature and humidity.
– Opt for bright colors that make you visible in case of emergencies and dark colors that camouflage you from predators.
– Wear boots, gloves and raincoats to protect yourself from water and mud.
– Carry a backpack or a waterproof bag to store your belongings and a flashlight or a whistle to signal for help.
Scenario 3: Mad Max
Imagine living in a world where resources are scarce, conflicts are rampant and lawlessness prevails. How do you survive and thrive in such conditions? Here are some tips:
– Choose durable fabrics like denim, leather and canvas that can withstand wear and tear.
– Avoid fabrics like lace, velvet and satin that are delicate and impractical.
– Wear layers that can be easily adapted to different situations and environments.
– Opt for neutral colors that blend in with your surroundings and avoid bright colors that attract attention.
– Wear accessories like belts, buckles, chains and spikes that can serve as weapons or tools.
– Carry a knife or a gun to defend yourself and a map or a compass to navigate.
These are just some of the possible scenarios and suggestions for what to wear in a climate-changed future. Of course, we hope that none of these scenarios will come true, but it doesn’t hurt to be prepared. After all, fashion is not only about looking good, but also about feeling good and being ready for anything. So what do you think? What do clothes look like in a climate-changed future?
