Final answer:
Loose-fitting white or light-colored clothing is ideal for desert environments because it reflects sunlight and allows for better air circulation during the day, facilitating cooling, and can be layered at night to retain warmth. It also offers protection against the sun during the day and from cooler temperatures at night.
Step-by-step explanation:
The clothing choice that would be best for people living in deserts is loose-fitting clothing with head protection. During the intense heat of the day, loose, light-colored garments reflect sunlight and allow air to circulate, making it easier for sweat to evaporate and cool the body. During the cold desert nights, these clothes can be layered to provide insulation and retain body heat. Traditional desert dwellers, like the Bedouin, wear clothing that covers most of their body, protecting them from the sun's harmful rays and also keeping them warm during cooler temperatures.
Moreover, white or lighter colored clothing reflects more sunlight than darker colors, which absorb more heat. That’s why the traditional black abaya, while an option for modesty according to Islamic principles, might not be as comfortable as white or lighter clothing in the heat of the desert. Lastly, keeping oneself covered can protect skin from the harsh winds and occasional sandstorms that are common in desert regions.