NGALI JOURNAL

How to Wear Silk for Winter and Summer

Silk is often thought of as a delicate, luxury fabric reserved for special occasions or balmy evenings. But its versatility, breathability, and natural thermoregulating properties make it one of the most wearable fabrics across all seasons — including the heat of summer and the chill of winter.

Wearing Silk in Winter: Warmth Without Bulk

Silk’s ability to retain warmth while remaining lightweight makes it an ideal base or layering piece during colder months.

How to style silk for winter:

  • Layer smart: Use silk slips or long-sleeve shirts as underlayers for wool coats or structured jackets. The smooth texture helps regulate body temperature while feeling gentle on the skin.
  • Double down on texture: Combine silk with heavier fabrics like wool or cashmere for a balanced, tactile look. A Ngali silk blouse under a structured blazer offers polish without weight.
  • Scarves as insulation: Ngali silk scarves add both cultural story and practical warmth — wrap around the neck or shoulders to protect against wind without overheating indoors.

Silk vs. Wool Scarves: What Keeps You Warmer?

It may surprise many, but silk scarves can be nearly as warm as wool — and in some ways, even more comfortable. While wool is thicker and more insulating in harsh cold, silk holds warmth close to the skin without the bulk, making it perfect for temperate winters or indoor wear.

Here’s why a silk scarf is a smart choice:

  • Thermal regulation: Silk naturally adjusts to your body temperature — keeping warmth in during cooler days while preventing overheating.
  • Lighter feel: Unlike wool, which can feel heavy or scratchy, silk is smooth and featherlight, making it easier to wear all day.
  • Less irritation: For those with sensitive skin, silk is hypoallergenic and less likely to cause itchiness or irritation around the neck.
  • Refined layering: Silk scarves can be worn under a coat without adding bulk or compromising elegance. The result is warmth with polish — and meaning.

Ngali’s silk scarves also come with the added value of storytelling through design, each piece a reflection of Country and the artist's vision. You’re not just wrapping yourself in fabric — you’re wrapping yourself in narrative.

Wearing Silk in Summer: Cool, Light, and Effortless

Despite its luxurious reputation, silk is one of the most breathable fabrics available. Its natural fibres allow air to circulate, helping your body stay cool even on the warmest days.

How to style silk for summer:

  • Go light and loose: Opt for flowy silk kaftans, easy fit pants, or airy slip dresses that allow movement and breeze. Ngali’s silk pieces are designed to float effortlessly over the body, making them ideal for heat.
  • Layer lightly: Pair a Ngali silk shirt over a simple tank or wear open over a swimsuit for a polished holiday look.
  • Accessorise simply: Let the print and texture speak. A silk scarf can double as a lightweight sarong, hair wrap, or statement neckpiece.

Why Choose Ngali Silk?

Ngali silk is more than just fabric — it’s storyline, sustainability, and soul. Our designs are born from translated First Nations artworks that speak to Country, culture, and kinship. Each piece is consciously created to honour both the land and the hands that make it.

  • Cultural connection: Every Ngali design translates artworks from First Nations artists into wearable stories, creating a deep and respectful connection between fashion and Indigenous culture.
  • Seasonless style: Our pieces are timeless — not trend-based. They’re designed to move effortlessly through your wardrobe all year round.
  • Eco-conscious: Silk is a natural fibre, biodegradable and long-lasting. By choosing Ngali, you’re choosing slow fashion that respects people and the planet.
  • Artisan quality: Our silk is custom-printed and crafted with attention to detail — French seams, thoughtful silhouettes, and signature prints that never compromise on comfort.

Final Thought

Whether you’re soaking in the sun or layering against the cold, silk is a fabric that works with your body — not against it. And when you choose Ngali, you’re not just wearing something beautiful; you’re wearing purpose, culture, and care.

Worn with purpose. Woven with story. Ngali.

By team Ngali.