Summer heat doesn’t have to mean saying goodbye to denim. At Mott & Bow, we’ve created lightweight jeans for summer that offer breathability, stretch, and all-day comfort—so you can keep wearing your favorite pair even when the temperature hits 90°.
Our denim blends are engineered for warm weather, using flexible, breathable fabrics that move with you and wick away heat. Whether you're commuting, traveling, or spending a day out, these are jeans that keep you cool without sacrificing style.
In this post, we’ll answer common questions like: Are jeans good for hot weather? What are the best jeans to wear when it’s hot? We’ll also show you how to style them for any summer occasion, and highlight the best stretch jeans for summer travel. Denim doesn’t need a season—it just needs the right design.
Are Jeans Good for Hot Weather?
Yes—jeans can absolutely be worn in hot weather—if you choose the right pair. The idea that denim is too heavy or suffocating for summer is outdated. Traditional jeans may have been thick and stiff, but modern options are a different story entirely.
At Mott & Bow, we design jeans specifically for year-round wear, including the hottest days of the year. The key lies in the fabric. Our summer-ready jeans are crafted with lightweight cotton blends and a carefully engineered weave that promotes airflow while maintaining structure. These materials offer the comfort of stretch without the weight of traditional denim, allowing you to move freely and stay cool.
It’s not about skipping denim in summer—it’s about choosing jeans made to handle the heat. With breathable construction and cooling flexibility, Mott & Bow makes it possible to wear your favorite style even when it’s 90° outside.
What to Look for in Hot Weather Jeans
When it comes to choosing the best jeans for hot weather, the right construction makes all the difference. Look for fabrics that prioritize breathability and comfort without sacrificing structure. Lightweight denim and cotton blends with spandex are ideal—they keep things cool while giving you the flexibility to move throughout the day.
Fit also matters. Skip anything too tight or heavy, and go for slim or straight fits that allow for better airflow. Lighter washes reflect sunlight more than darker denim, making them a smarter choice when temperatures rise. Here are Mott & Bow’s heat-ready picks:
Men’s Summer Jeans
Wooster: Designed with a 35% stretch factor, this jean moves with your body and offers excellent breathability. It’s built for comfort in motion, making it an ideal choice for summer’s most active days.
Warren: Crafted from premium Italian fabric, the Warren combines a polished look with an ultra-soft feel that’s airy and smooth against the skin.
Slim Mercer Stretch: A go-to for business casual in warm weather, this style comes in a range of modern summer shades and delivers sharp style with lightweight comfort.
Women’s Summer Jeans
High-Rise Jane: Our bestselling skinny jean, the Jane offers a 35% stretch factor and stays breathable even on the hottest days. It’s designed not to cling, keeping you cool without sacrificing shape.
Hubert: The light blue hue of the Hubert makes it the ultimate summer statement jean. It’s soft, easy to wear, and perfectly tailored for warm-weather looks that feel as fresh as they look.
These styles are proof that the best jeans to wear in hot weather aren’t just about looking good—they’re engineered to perform in the heat.
How to Style Jeans When It’s 90° Outside
Yes, you can wear jeans when it’s 90°—if you know how to style them. The key is to pair your lightweight summer denim with breathable, minimal layers and accessories that complement the heat without compromising style.
For Men, keep it clean and cool by pairing jeans with a lightweight tee or polo. The Driggs Tee is a summer essential—made from fresh, breathable fabric and available in over five different colors perfect for warm weather. It’s designed to keep you feeling comfortable even under the sun. Finish the look with minimalist sneakers or slip-ons, and consider adding a pair of sunglasses or a lightweight woven belt for that effortless summer polish.
For Women, styling jeans in the heat is all about balance. Pair your favorite high-rise or slim styles with breezy tops like the Marcy Tee—once named “the holy grail of all v-necks” by The New York Times. It’s breathable, ultra-soft, and flatters with just the right depth in the neckline. Prefer something flowier? The Cotton Boxy Deep V-Neck is your go-to. Made from the softest Peruvian cotton, its relaxed, cropped silhouette pairs perfectly with high or mid-rise jeans. It floats with the summer breeze, offering a fit that’s both sensual and effortless.
To finish the look, stick to lightweight accessories: summer hats, slim belts, or delicate jewelry can elevate the outfit without adding bulk. Sandals or white sneakers keep it casual but chic, letting your jeans for summer take center stage.
With the right styling, even the hottest days are denim days.
Editor’s picks: Mott & Bow Summer Staples
These are the jeans we’re reaching for all summer long. Lightweight, breathable, and stylish—each pair delivers on comfort without sacrificing polish.
Mercer
Available in a wide range of summer-perfect shades—like bone, khaki, and light khaki—the Mercer is your business casual essential. Lightweight, breathable, and polished enough for the boardroom yet relaxed enough for rooftop drinks, this is your summer all-rounder.
Crosby
Combining the comfort of stretch with a refined medium-weight denim, the Crosby delivers maximum breathability and all-day ease. Sleek, comfortable, and endlessly versatile.
Benson
This light-blue jean is cut from ultra-soft denim and designed to keep you cool. It's the kind of fresh summer shade that instantly upgrades your warm-weather wardrobe.
Ridge
A customer favorite for a reason. The Ridge features shape-retaining stretch and a flattering silhouette that stays smooth and supportive from morning to night.
Jane
Our original bestseller. Jane offers curve-hugging compression with a 35% stretch factor, delivering both comfort and confidence in every step.
Laight
Designed for breathability and softness, the Laight is a go-to for summer ease. It’s lightweight, relaxed, and incredibly comfortable from the first wear.
Pro Tips for Staying Cool in Denim
Wearing jeans in the summer isn’t just about choosing the right pair—it’s also about how you wear and care for them. Here are a few quick tips to help you beat the heat while staying stylish in denim:
- Go lighter—both in color and cut. Light-wash jeans reflect sunlight more effectively than dark ones, and relaxed or slim cuts allow more airflow than skinnier styles. A looser fit keeps you cooler and more comfortable without losing shape.
- Wash less, air dry more. Over-washing your jeans not only wears them down but can also strip away the softness that makes them breathable. Instead, air them out between wears and hang them to dry to preserve their comfort and airflow.
- Always opt for stretch and breathable fabrics. The best summer jeans are made from cotton blends with built-in stretch. These fabrics don’t trap heat like traditional denim and let your skin breathe—even in triple-digit temps.
With these tips and the right pair from Mott & Bow, you’ll be ready to take on summer in style and comfort.
Conclusion
Jeans don’t need to be boxed into fall and winter. With the right fabric, fit, and styling approach, they can easily become your go-to for the warmest months of the year. At Mott & Bow, we’ve reimagined denim to be as breathable and flexible as your favorite summer staples—without compromising on style or polish. Whether you're heading to the office, catching a flight, or strolling through the city, our jeans are built to move with you and keep you cool.
Don’t sweat your style—literally. Discover the jeans made for 90° days. Shop Mott & Bow’s breathable denim for men and women today.