Clothing Hacks for Summer (Tips to Beat the Heat)

As someone who grew up loving warm weather, beach days, and fun dips in the pool, I have a soft spot for summer. But let’s be honest, this season also comes with its own set of challenges. The sun feels amazing, yet somehow we’re dealing with sweat patches, blisters, and chafing before the day is even halfway through.

While we can’t control the weather, we can make a few wardrobe adjustments to enjoy every minute of sunshine instead of feeling uncomfortable and frustrated. So if you’ve been wondering how to beat the heat while staying stylish, you’re in the right place.

I’m sharing some of my favorite clothing hacks for dressing comfortably in hot weather, so you can remain cool and put together for as long as summer sticks around.

8 Clothing Hacks for Summer

1. Invest in the right underwear

Undergarments are the base of every outfit, and when the weather heats up, the type of underwear you choose matters even more. You want pieces that are made to handle movement, and long summer days without leaving you uncomfortable.

That’s where Camelnot panties come in. They’re designed with moisture-wicking fabrics that help pull sweat away from intimate areas and dry quickly, keeping you feeling fresh even in hot weather. The smooth gusset also prevents bunching and awkward lines from forming, whether you’re wearing fitted outfits or swimsuits.

Camelnot thongs feature:
• A camel-toe-proof front panel
• A soft gusset for all-day comfort
• Flat seams that eliminate visible lines
• A secure waistband that doesn’t roll or twist

These thongs also come in neutral colours, so they stay invisible under your clothes. If you’re looking to stay comfortable no matter what you throw on, this is one upgrade your wardrobe will thank you for.

2. Wear lightweight clothes

When it comes to surviving summer heat, fabric choice matters just as much as the outfit itself. Lightweight clothing allows air to circulate your body, which helps sweat evaporate faster and keeps you feeling cooler during the day. Start by choosing natural fibers like cotton, linen, silk, and bamboo. These fabrics are breathable and gentle on the skin, making them ideal for hot and humid weather.

Fit also plays a big role here. Avoid pieces with heavy lining, that extra fabric between you and the breeze is enough to turn a stylish outfit into a sweaty situation in no time.

Flare outfits are the unofficial uniform for summer. They allow more airflow and prevent fabric from sticking to your skin. Some styles to consider are: palazzo pants, flowy skirts, A-line dresses and oversized shirts.

3. Fix underarm sweat spots

Underarm sweat is one of those summer struggles we all deal with, especially on really hot days. One simple but very effective hack is using pantyliners to prevent sweat patches and stains on your clothes.

Pantyliners are thin, absorbent, and discreet, which makes them perfect for soaking up sweat before it reaches your outfit. All you need to do is stick the pantyliner to the inside of your top, right along the underarm area. Make sure the adhesive side is firmly pressed onto the fabric so it stays in place.

For best results, choose unscented, ultra-thin pantyliners, so they stay invisible under your clothes and don’t irritate your skin. If you’re going to be out all day, you can even replace them midway through for a fresh, dry feel.

4. Avoid thigh chafing

Inner thigh chafing can ruin even the cutest summer outfit, especially when you’re wearing dresses or skirts. The friction combined with heat and sweat is a recipe for discomfort, but it’s completely avoidable.

Start with anti-chafing products like glide sticks, balms, or even a light layer of petroleum jelly. These create a smooth barrier that reduces friction as you move. For longer days out, anti-chafe shorts or bike shorts worn under dresses are a lifesaver. Look for lightweight, seamless options that don’t roll up or trap heat.

Avoid rough seams or stiff materials in the thigh area. Smooth fabrics help reduce irritation and allow you to walk all day comfortably. And if you’re planning lots of strolling, reapply your anti-chafe product when needed, your thighs will thank you later.

5. Secure bra straps

Nothing pulls you out of a confident look faster than constantly adjusting slipping bra straps. The heat causes sweat, which can make straps slide even more, especially with sleeveless or off-shoulder tops.

Start by making sure your bra fits properly. Loose straps will never stay in place, no matter how many times you adjust them. If your straps still slip, bra strap clips or converters can pull them into a racerback style, keeping them hidden and secure.

For tricky necklines, strapless bras are great summer staples. You can also use fashion tape to hold straps in place against your skin or garment. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference in how put-together and comfortable you feel.

6. Prevent foot blisters

Blisters can easily ruin an otherwise perfect summer outfit, especially when the heat, sweat, and friction all team up against your feet. One of the easiest ways to avoid them is simply choosing the right type of shoes for the season.

Slippers, sandals, and open-toe heels are your best bet in hot weather because they allow your feet to breathe and reduce friction. When less of your foot is trapped inside a shoe, there’s less rubbing, less moisture buildup, and a much lower chance of blisters forming.

If you do need to wear closed shoes, keep them well-broken-in, and always pair them with foot cushions. The goal is to minimize friction as much as possible so your feet stay comfortable.

7. Opt for bright colours

Colour choice can actually affect how hot you feel. Dark colours absorb heat and tend to show sweat more easily, which isn’t ideal when you’re spending time outdoors.

Opt for bright and light colours like white, beige, pastels, soft yellows, and airy prints. These shades reflect sunlight instead of trapping it, helping you stay cooler and more comfortable. Bonus: lighter colours often feel more “summery” and fresh, instantly lifting your overall look.

If you love darker tones, save them for evening outings or air-conditioned spaces, and balance them with breathable fabrics to avoid overheating.

8. Choose transition layers

Choose pieces you can easily put on or take off without disrupting your outfit. Think light knit jackets, button-down shirts, linen blazers, or soft cardigans. These layers are breathable enough for outdoor wear but still provide warmth in air-conditioned spaces.

Button-up shirts are especially versatile, you can wear them open, tied at the waist, or buttoned up, depending on the temperature. The goal is flexibility, clothes that adapt to your environment so you’re never too hot or too cold.

You could also include hats and visors into your outfits. They help protect your skin when you need to limit intense sun exposure. When you match these cover-ups to your outfit, it becomes both stylish and practical.

Final Thoughts

Once you understand what works for your body and your lifestyle, everything becomes a lot easier. You don’t need to follow every rule or copy what everyone else is doing, you just need a system that makes sense for you.

You now have all the tools you need to make smarter choices and enjoy getting dressed, even on the hottest days. Trust yourself, experiment a little, and give yourself permission to keep things simple. Summer goes by quickly, so make the most of it and enjoy every moment along the way.