I don’t know about you, but I’m a huge HUGE fan of Uniqlo. Sure, I’ve had people tell me that their clothes aren’t fashion forward, too simple and in some cases, very aunty-looking. To all that I say “Pfbfttt!” I’m not fashion forward, I like simple and why, I’m in aunty-category! Gone are the days when young kids will call me “Jie Jie PB”, now it’s “Aunty PB” and I’ve (thankfully) come to terms with it HAHA!
But this obsession of mine with Uniqlo means that I physically avoid the stores, because I’d always walk out with something, and now that they have online shopping, that’s even more dangerous. I have to physically stop myself from going to the online store! That said, I’ve also picked up some excellent deals online, so let’s just say that I don’t hold back that often. Hah!
What I really wanted to share with you however, is not my obsession with Uniqlo, but with the Uniqlo Airism range. (NB: I’m not sponsored, although I won’t say no to Uniqlo showering me with Airism clothing in all forms, thank you LOL) The Airism range is what I think was formerly known as Dry Lux, something I’d shared with you many years ago, and it is the anti-thesis to the famed and popular Heattech range which is targeted at winter-wear. But for those of us living where the sun beats down relentlessly on us for practically 365 days of the year (366 this year!) Airism is the way to go. In fact, if you’re suffocating in this heat, but are loathe to parade in the altogether, then get thee to a Uniqlo store stat! It’s the next best thing to going naked 😀
The Airism range is now fairly large, with tops ranging from the bra-tops to camisoles, and even down to underwear. I haven’t tried everything in the range, but of the items I’ve tried, my favourite are the Bra-tops and now, the camisoles. Oh the Airism camisoles, they’re a God-send for long hot summer nights! <- read that any way you will 😉
Uniqlo Airism Camisoles are thin enough to be worn as innerwear
What makes the Airism range of clothing so unique, is the material. The tops are made of a synthetic material that is very thin and moulds to the body. I believe they are really meant to be worn as innerwear e.g. under a blouse or shirt, hence the thinness. They aren’t meant to be worn on their own, that’s for certain. Not unless you have the body and confidence of a nymph. They make great layering items, for thin or sheer tops as they keep you cool so you don’t feel uncomfortable even though you layer. They really are form-fitting, and unfortunately, show up every line, crease and lace of your bras underneath, if you wear them out, and every lump and bump of your body as well. Sigh… 😛 I have noticed that they now make T-shirts that are less fitted, but I haven’t tried those.
Uniqlo Airism material keeps your body cool
But what really makes these tops the most comfortable I’ve worn in hot weather, is how it miraculously keeps you cool. For some reason, the material draws heat and sweat away from your body and cools you down quickly, so you actually feel far more comfortable than if you were cavorting in the altogether.
When I travel, I usually travel in the Uniqlo Bra Tops, and I made sure I bought a few in the Airism range, because they kept me far more comfortable, especially when I go to places like Bangkok, where it’s hot and I get sweaty walking around. I even got my Mom to buy some, simply because every one needs an Airism bra top. In fact, everyone needs a Uniqlo Bra Top, but that’s another story! LOL! 😀
Uniqlo Airism camisoles help you sleep better!
It was during this current heat wave that I discovered how much better the Airism camisoles helped me sleep. At its peak, when temperatures were nudging 38°C in the day, not even the air-conditioning was helping. At night, the temperature barely fell below 30°C and I found myself tossing and turning, and sitting up, drenched in sweat. It was awful.
But one day, I decided to clear out my closet, and saw an Airism camisole that I’d bought a while ago on sale, but not yet worn. As I had nothing to lose, I decided to try it that evening, to see if it would help me stay cooler, since the bra tops did feel more comfortable than usual. What I did not expect however, was a full and complete night’s rest! I did not wake up once, sweating, and I felt incredibly comfortable.
The thin stretchy material is so form-fitting that even if you toss and turn in the night, it doesn’t wind itself around your body, trying to choke you like a python, but moves with you. It literally feels like a second skin, only better, because it wicks away sweat from your body and magically keeps your body temperature down, better than your skin can on its own. It was like having your own personal air-conditioning for your body, and if you have ever had to toss and turn in stifling summer humidity, you will understand when I say that your body heats up like an overheated engine, trying desperately to keep your body thermostat stable, by excreting heat through sweat, so you end up a sticky, sweaty mess. Wearing Airism to bed helped me regulate that temperature so I stay cool, not sweaty, and as a result, I get my beauty sleep, instead of waking up looking like a panda.
Since my discovery, I almost immediately ran out and stocked up on a few more camisoles for rotation, despite breaking my cardinal rule to never buy anything at full price 😛 This was an emergency, dammit! I HAD to have my Airism camisoles for bed! Marilyn Monroe famously slept with nothing on except Chanel no. 5 – I think she would have liked the Airism camisole too LOL! 😀
Are you a fan of the Uniqlo Airism range as well? Have you tried wearing the camisoles to bed?
I picked up a few at full price (approx RM39.90 | US$9.90) in store, but I’m going to wait for when they go on sale again to pick up more. I’ve realised that my wardrobe is slowly but surely turning into a Uniqlo store in itself, but you know what? I’m happy about it, the clothes fit me, they are affordable and of decent quality and hey, it’s really better than going naked! 😀 Tell me your Uniqlo story so I know I’m not alone in my obsession 😛
Paris B
Jenn says
Yes, yes and yes! 😀 I live in these at home – they’re so comfy and they’re still going strong after being abused by my washing machine for almost 2 years now 😀 And I totally agree with you – they’re so smooth they won’t catch when i toss and turn when sleeping! 😀 Still finding the courage to wear the bra tops out in public though… but hey, maybe i’ll try someday! Bras take up too much space in the luggage 🙁
I can fit into their Kids’ top so yay for paying only RM19.90 for their Airism T-shirts! 😛 And yes, my wardrobe is slowly but surely turning into a Uniqlo store as well… I just did a rough count and shuddered at the number of stuff I have from there :/
Paris B says
Haha I wear the bra tops out often – spares me the problem of having bra straps showing in strapless tops LOL! But a cardigan over does help preserve the modesty somewhat hehe… And tsk, I don’t like you small ones! My SIL can wear the kids tops too and I’m jealous because that means you get it cheaper than I even do 😛
Bugs says
Ooh, I didn’t know there’s kids Airism, need to check whether I can still fit into a kids size as I’ve put on so much weight with no effort at all. Blame the age. I have a kid reversible jacket in the largest size :p
Tried the bra top but too hugging, all bulges showing with no shame… ==”’ Maybe a camisole is different ?
Paris B says
Erm the camisole is just as figure hugging, I’m afraid 😛
Fireangel says
Uniqlo is EVIL. Every time I walk pass one i always have the urge to walk into it. My husband knows this and will physically restrain me by yanking on my hand and leading me away from the shop, haha.
Every time i masuk the shop, confirm will come out with something. :/
Now I always keep a look out for the bra tops (both heat tech and airism range) because they are so excellent for travelling and for days when I’m too lazy to put on a bra AND a top HAHAHAHA.
Paris B says
I’m the same with the bra tops. They’re perfect under suits or cardigans and they always stay in shape, which is perfect 😀 As for Uniqlo, I have to physically stop myself from going in because like you, I will DEFINITELY come out with something. I suppose you and your husband won’t like me telling you that the online store is just as good and evil right? 😛
Isabel says
Airism bra tops are even better than sliced bread! #noelaborationrequired #auntydontcare
p/s: would totally appreciate it if you could give a shout out if you chance upon the bra tops going on sale.
Paris B says
They’re on sale, Isabel! 😀 (I shared on FB) And yes infinitely better than sliced bread. I love them in the basic shades. How many black bra tops do I need? Hmm… many 😛
synical says
I have one that they did a giveaway for, and… totally agree about not wearing it alone outside the house. The bra tops only go up to a certain size (which I can’t wear), so if nothing else, I won’t be tempted by those.
The only reason to step into Uniqlo at all is to check out what’s on “Limited Offer” or their clearance bins which doesn’t always show up online. And their “Limited Offer” items are usually revealed on Fridays on their website; I check to see if anything I’m looking for is on sale, and then I buy in store.
Paris B says
LOL I’m always shopping the Limited Offer bins in store too! If I see something I like that’s not on sale, I tell myself to wait because it might just go on sale soon. Sometimes it works, often it doesn’t 😛 I didn’t know about the specific days they release info on the limited offers! Thanks for letting me know – now I have even more excuse to shop 😛
Trah says
Airism is a godsend during our annual heat wave. Not only it’s soft it’s also very light, suitable for travels.
If you would like to wear full airism to bed buy a few men’s airism x steteco shorts to bed. It’s knee length and the waist band is thin so no pinches on the waist. It is extra comfy to wear. Few years ago they sold nice patterned ones but recently they are all in one color. Do look it up on the online site 🙂
I also recommend their fine supima collection for night wear as the light cotton material is cooling too. I bought a supima tshirt from the best buy bin for less than RM 10 and it is also a heavenly combo for good sleep.
Paris B says
THANK YOU for the tip to look in the men’s department for shorts! I sleep in cami-shorts combos so this would be perfect 😀 Now to wait till they go on sale haha! I had always seen the Supima cotton tees but never tried them (never sure why) but now I will too! More excuse to go to Uniqlo 😀
kuri says
I like Uniqlo bra tops for travelling too! Haven’t tried Airism – will check them out!
I love rooting around the sale racks at Uniqlo – I can always find something good. I really like their denim too. And the mens cotton socks. Dangerous shop!
Paris B says
Yes, their sale bins are amazing places for deals! I love rooting through them 😀 I can imagine it must be even better in Japan! I remember going to the huge Uniqlo store in Tokyo and was in 6 stories of bliss haha! I wear their denim too! Affordable and looks decent. You might like Airism for summer – you’d definitely prefer Heat Tech for winter 😉
Peggy Rider says
I love the heattech for winter and spring (coz its still colder than what i like). This post makes me think i should try the airism for this coming summer. I love them as they are super comfy, the heattech is so soft and lightweight for winter clothing
Paris B says
The Airism has a similar, light texture with Heat Tech so I think you would definitely like it for summer – keeps the body cool when it’s hot outside 😀
Ashley D says
I loooove Uniqlo! There isn’t a store in my area so I shop online. After I figured out the sizing (runs small), I’ve been a devoted can. The airism camisoles are great. I’ve always had issues, when wearing button-up blouses, with the dreaded bust gap (if you know what I mean). Wearing an airism camisole under the blouse takes care of that problem without adding bulk or heat. Love
’em!
I also love their supima t-shirts. I can’t tell you how many brands I went through before finding them. They fit, are smooth and comfortable, hold up after repeated washings, and are CHEAP.
Paris B says
Ooh yes I know what you mean about the dreaded bust gap! Also, sheer tops. An airism camisole sits well underneath all of this without being bulky and keeping us cool. So perfect right? 😀 I’m going to have to look at the Supima T-shirts. I had seen them around but never tried them because I wasn’t sure if they would hold up since they’re so cheap. Now that a few of you have mentioned how good they are, I’m definitely checking some out! 😉
Firn says
I wear the Airism bra tops to the gym. I have about 8 of them… No sweat patches!
I still find natural materials more cooling than synthetics. Uniqlo also has some lovely SS designs out. I got 3 linen dresses and some tops recently.
Paris B says
I never thought to use Airism to the gym, so now I have to try! Thanks for the idea. I got the flare skirt from the Lemaire collection 😀 I like the collaborations they do as well and am always checking out what there is or if I’d like it 😉
Fiona says
I like Airism too! A few months ago they had a giveaway. I managed to secure myself a free Airism top but there was a system error that I received 2 redemption email with 2 different code :P. The size are quite small though. I had to take two size larger. Even the cashier had to ask why I took a big size.
I like another range of Uniqlo – the Supima I think. It’s more of a thin cotton. Got it from the sale rack for RM19.90.
Paris B says
Wow lucky you! To win 1 and to get 2 haha! 😀 I do take 1 size up but I highly doubt you’re 2 sizes up, honestly! :O You’re the 3rd, or is it 4th person to mention the Supima tees! Now I have to check them out – my wallet doesn’t thank you 😛
Fiona says
Look for it at the sales rack. I just went back last weekend to buy another 2 😛 – one v-neck as backup and a round neck.
plue says
i love Uniqlo’s Airism, and my major bulk of uniqlo airism is from their underwear segment lol. Very comfortable and survived washing machine abuse. Dries super fast so is awesome for travelling. I also love their Relaco shorts, feels goods even in this hot weather. But I hate that they increase the price by RM10!
Most of my basic wear is from Uniqlo… just a small complain though, a little OT, but thought I’d share… I have a few of their legging pants, it’s very comfortable since it’s made of about 95% cotton, so I wanted to buy a new piece to replace my old ones, but alas they changed the material and is just so awful now, but yet still the same/ higher price. Sigh.
Paris B says
I haven’t tried their underwear but I was told it was very comfy and erm… airy LOL! Ok, I”m going to take a look next time I see anything go on sale 😉 I love Relaco shorts too! I’m waiting for a sale so I can get more – perfect for sleeping and lounging at home though I do find they run a little small. That said, be grateful for the price, based on my survey, its the most affordable here compared even to China or Thailand! Oh I haven’t tried their legging pants/jeans but my Mom likes them. I can’t see to get them to fit me well 🙁
Joann says
I literally am counting down the days when Uniqlo is opening in Canada. Fall 2016 baby!!!! The first time I went to NYC a couple years ago, I spent a couple hundred dollars in their store. They’re amazing. I love all their products. It’s plain, but that’s me. I want comfortable plain clothes. The material is great and the price can’t be beat. So I completely understand the obsession.
I haven’t tried their airism clothes though. At the time I went to the store, it was middle of Winter, so only heattech was on sale. But from the looks of the photos, they do look great layering or wearing around the house. I would definitely want to purchase this line to try out.
And yes, Uniqlo is definitely one of the brands I would not mind being sponsored by *cough cough* hahaha
Paris B says
WHEE! So vicariously happy for you to have a Uniqlo store nearby 😀 It is definitely a money sucker, but I’ve been very happy with everything I’ve bought from them so far and I do find the quality good for basics. If you have the chance, do try the Airism although I’m not sure how practical they will be as I’m not sure it gets very hot in Canada! LOL Wouldn’t it be wonderful to be sponsored by Uniqlo? It’ll be a dream! 😀
JackieA says
The bra tops don’t fit my lady lumps :(. I only go in if my teenagers spot something “cool” and need to go in and check it out…..otherwise its not a store that caters to my body type. You lucky things!!
Paris B says
🙁 Sorry to hear that! Previously, the online site used to have larger sizes, but they seem to have removed that option now too. That’s a pity. Their clothes should be made so they can be worn by as many people as possible!
Daphne says
Oh yes… I love Uniqlo so does my husband! Everytime we enter the shop, we will buy at least one item… and Uniqlo is the only brand that can make my husband lose control while shopping.
We live and breathe their Heat Tech (& even Heat Tech Extra Warm) during winter, and Airism during summer (or when we were still in Singapore). Similar to another earlier comment, I’ve been weaing their Supima Cotton tee to sleep lately (not by choice, but I only had one old sleep tee and needed another one to alternate). The tee is surprisingly cooling, and also good enough to wear out!
I love their bra tops too! They used to have them in cotton material, but nowadays they only have the bra tops in the slinky material, which I cannot wear them out alone anymore coz I look like a caterpillar! 😛
Paris B says
Ok now I need the Supima tees – everyone says it’s good 😀 You know I used to have the regular cotton bra tops but I didn’t notice that they don’t have it anymore! I shall have to go and take another look – besides you know what happens to caterpillars right? They turn into butterflies 😉