Keeping Cool in L.A.: The Future of Fashion

In Los Angeles, where summer heat can be relentless, staying cool is more than just about comfort—it's essential. Scientists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst have developed a chalk-based fabric coating that could be a game-changer, according to CNN . This innovation reduces fabric temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit compared to untreated materials, potentially transforming everyday clothing into personal cooling systems.

Inspired by traditional cooling techniques, the researchers used calcium carbonate—found in chalk and limestone—to create a flexible coating. This material reflects sunlight while allowing body heat to escape, keeping the wearer significantly cooler without altering the fabric's look or feel.

Related: How California Avoided Rolling Blackouts in Historic Heat Wave

“Without any power input, we’re able to reduce how hot a person feels,” says Evan Patamia

Evan is a graduate student working on the project. In a city where air conditioning can be expensive and energy-intensive, this could offer an affordable and sustainable alternative.

The potential of cooling fabrics extends beyond fashion. As heat waves intensify, these materials could be used in buildings and vehicles, reducing the reliance on air conditioning. Other researchers, like those at RMIT University in Melbourne, are exploring similar technologies using nanodiamonds to create cooling effects, further highlighting the growing interest in this field.

Scaling up production is the next challenge, but with plans to create larger fabric sheets, the UMass team is hopeful. As L.A. continues to grapple with rising temperatures, cooling fabrics could soon become a vital part of urban life, offering a stylish and practical way to beat the heat.