My favourite hot weather bee suit is a pair of Birkenstocks, blue jean 
cut-offs and a broad-brimmed hat.  That's it.  No veil to restrict 
vision and cause sweating, but usually sunglasses or, occasionally when 
required, reading glasses.

This costume can be worn even when blowing bees, when used in 
conjunction with discreet and preemptive use of a good smoker, common 
sense, and an awareness of conditions and bee temper -- which you will 
certainly have if you dress this way.

One caveat: don't work dressed like this near anyone wearing a suit and 
veil, and especially anyone wearing gloves.  For one thing, anyone 
dressed like that when you are not is bound to be pretty insensitive and 
clumsy.

That said, I often wear a loose-fitting, very lightweight bee suit over 
shorts to reduce sun exposure if I work at mid-day, if there is much 
dripping honey, or many crawling bees, like when closing up in late 
evening.  I really hate using a veil, but sometimes it is necessary.

Mid-day is a bad time to be in the sun, but commercial beekeepers often 
have to work all day.  Hobbyists and retired beekeepers can usually 
choose their work hours and IMO, evening, especially during flows is a 
great time to be in the beeyard.  Don't tarry too long though or the 
bees will tell you it is time to go home.

Early morning can be a good time, too, but sometimes the bees can be 
crabby or sluggish.

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