Knit on fire: trend in Panama's weather

Panama's unique rain forest/tropical climate directly influences the fashion and clothing that people can wear, as we need materials and fabrics that can be worn comfortably in the heat and humidity as well as when we enter the freezing air conditioning which is also so typical here as a respite from the heat.

In the spirit of versatile clothing and having our wardrobes packed with pieces that can be worn in all seasons we have spotted a new trend in the International fashion scene, where winter pieces are gliding into the summer months and therefore could be a perfect solution to the Panama heat/freeze combination of inside and outside dramatic temperature changes, as well as the transition into our Winter months.  

Cable knits are entering the limelight as a summer fashion statement. The thought of wearing sweaters in the tropical heat may not immediately spring to mind, but cable knits are offering a less 'oven-like' and more 'chic' look. It doesn't matter if you get these pieces from your grandma (the more retro, the more cool you look in our opinion) or from the latest store collections, just make sure you introduce your wardrobe to these classic season must-haves. Cable knits are not necessarily worn to make you feel cosy and warm, but these will make you want to reveal more skin.

Isabel Marant

Isabel Marant styled her cable knits with tailored shorts, giving them a summery look. The bright threads used to knit the asymmetric pattern is what makes this ensemble a darling of SS2012. To make it more wearable, look for pieces with knitted cotton thread instead of wool. For obvious reasons, you don’t want to wear wool all the time in Panama. Also, if you pick a full-sleeves knit, then it's better one with loose, almost peasant-type cut. The looser the knit is, the more Panama-friendly it is.

Fendi

Street Style at Paris Fashion Week, by Vanessa Jackman

If sleeveless cable knits prove to be a more wearable option for you, then Fendi and Bora Aksu are a great reference. These are probably more versatile than others, because they can be layered as well so you are prepared for those changes in temperature and also ready for any international trips where you need to throw in a few cover ups and warmer clothes for those seasoned travelers among us.