Are you a parent living in the Middle East? Are you finding that dressing your little ones in this heat is a little bit of a struggle? Well, don't worry, you're not alone!

Being a mom living in Dubai, I know all too well about the challenges that come with dressing kids in this region. With the temperatures soaring and humidity levels making it feel ten times hotter, ensuring that your child stays cool and comfortable can be a real task.

But fear not, while it may take a little getting used to, I have some tips that will make dressing your little ones in the Middle East a breeze! With these guidelines, you'll have all the tools you need to keep your kids comfortable and trendy, while also considering sustainability. If you have read my posts and blogs, you will know that I am a huge supporter of brands who have sustainability at the core of their business.

Things To Keep In Mind

Understanding the Weather - The Middle East boasts a diverse climate, ranging from scorching summers to mild winters. Ensuring your child's comfort is all about understanding these variations. During the sweltering summers, opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics. For winters, choose cozy layers that can be easily adjusted as temperatures shift throughout the day.

Choosing the Right Fabrics - When it comes to your little one's comfort, fabric choice is paramount. Opt for natural, soft materials like organic cotton and linen to prevent irritation and overheating. Lightweight natural fiber materials allow your child’s skin to breathe, reducing the chances of rashes or discomfort. Look out for certified organic and/or OEKO-tex certified fabrics. This is to ensure you are putting on your little ones’ skin is free from toxic chemicals and has been produced without the use of harmful pesticides.

My Top Tips To Dressing Them Right

1. Layering with Style - While it may seem counterintuitive, covering up with lightweight layers can actually help protect your child from the sun's harmful rays. Moreover, transitional weather often means temperature fluctuations. Invest in lightweight cardigans or cover-ups that can easily be taken on or off. Dress your child in easily removable layers to accommodate these changes.

2. Staying Sun-Safe - The Middle Eastern sun can be harsh, so sun protection is crucial. Dress your child in long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats to shield them from the sun's rays. Don't forget UV-protective sunglasses to safeguard their delicate eyes.

3. Transitioning from Indoor to Outdoor - From air-conditioned interiors to outdoor heat, your child may experience abrupt temperature changes. Dress them in light, breathable clothing indoors, and have a cover-up or blanket for when you step outside. This prevents sudden discomfort due to temperature shifts.

4. Loosefitting Clothing - There's one rule of thumb; the looser, the better! Clothes that are too tight can be uncomfortable and may even lead to heat rash. Loose-fitting clothes allow for better airflow, keeping your child cool and comfortable. Choose clothes made from breathable materials like cotton or linen.

5. Don't forget a hat! - A sun hat is an essential accessory for any child living in the Middle East. Not only does it protect their face and neck from the sun, but it also helps keep them cool.

6. Choose Open-toed Shoes - Closed shoes can cause your child's feet to sweat, so it's best to opt for or flip-flops. Not only are they cooler, but they're also much easier to slip on and off when your little one wants to run around.

7. Sustainable Clothing Choices - Now, let's talk about sustainable clothing – a choice that benefits both your child and the environment. Opt for high-quality garments that withstand multiple washes and wear. These can be passed down to younger siblings or other families, reducing waste.

My absolute favorites are from:

Treehouse (2 years and up)

Started by a mom with a passion for progress. Her focus is doing better for our planet, our society and our children. She believes that moving towards sustainability together one choice at a time, is the only way to shift the landscape of fast fashion. You know what else I love? Each piece in the Treehouse collection is ethically made by artisans paid a living wage, free of harmful chemicals and certified organic. Now, isn`t that wonderful?

TickleTickle (Newborn to 3 years)

By another boss mom. An awesome organic clothing brand of gender neutral clothing. Tickle Tickle eliminates chemical dyes and curates’ clothes that treats sustainability as a lifestyle (and how cute is the name).

When my daughter was a baby, I learned the importance of weather-appropriate dressing the hard way. I dressed her in a not so light outfit, thinking it would keep her warm in the air conditioned restaurant. Little did I know, the weather changed dramatically and she ended up overheating. That day taught me the significance of layering and choosing the right fabrics, ensuring my child's comfort always comes first.

We've all been there – trying to wrestle a squirming toddler into a jacket that they've suddenly decided they despise. It's like a mini-wrestling match, and they're often the undefeated champions! But hey, it's all part of the parenting adventure, right?

To sum it up, dressing your children for the Middle East weather is a balancing act between style, comfort, and sustainability. By following these guidelines, you'll keep your little ones comfortable, stylish and ready for any weather curveball the infamous weather throws your way.

And remember, while sticking to these dressing guidelines is important, it's also essential to keep your child hydrated and in the shade as much as possible.

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