Summer is here and it is hot out! As a long time resident of the city of New Orleans, I consider myself an expert in the art of surviving insanely hot weather with ease. We all know about linen blend clothing and other summer fashion items, but do you know that your lingerie can make a big difference in your summer heat survival strategies, too?

In general, surviving the summer heat is about something counter-intuitive: layering. In the winter you’re always layering items that will keep you warm, but in the summer layering is all about letting your skin breathe.

Today I’m sharing some of my favorite tips for surviving the summer heat in style — and it all starts with your lingerie choices.

1.  Look for breathable natural fabrics.

We always think about this for clothing but we don’t often apply this idea to our lingerie. There are more great silk and cotton lingerie items available in a range of sizes than ever before! Even if you can’t find bras in your size range that use natural fabrics, you can focus on breathable panties and camisoles that will help your skin stay cool.

Another trick is to make sure that your underwear isn’t too tight. Sweating in summer is the worst so focus on increasing airflow to your skin. Incredibly tight underwear and other lingerie can make you feel awful on a really hot day.

2.  Embrace slips and layering.

Slips are an old fashioned idea but they can make a huge difference in your comfort level when the temperature goes up. Focus on slips and camisoles that are breathable and layer well under your clothes. As a bonus, you can sweat into your slip instead of into your expensive dress!

It’s almost always easier to wash a slip or a camisole over and over again then your valuable clothing, so embrace the vintage-inspired lifestyle and try some! You can often find great and cheap options at local resale, vintage, and thrift stores. If you find a great deal on some then just buy a bunch. You won’t regret it.

3.  Stock up on mesh bras and underwear.

Mesh bras are really trendy right now, but they’re also perfect for the summer heat. Mesh bras only used to be available in smaller cup sizes but now are available for lots of different sizes and body types. Some have underwires and some are bralettes but they all will keep you cool and comfortable during the next heat wave.

Mesh bras also air dry faster when you hand wash them so they are perfect for the summer when you are washing your bras more often!

Related: These 11 Bras Are Summer Must-Haves

Parfait Active Wireless Sports Bra in Tea Berry

4.  Explore the world of wireless bras.

Bralettes used to be associated with unsupportive pieces in a small range of sizes. If that’s still your idea of what bralettes are available, you should check out all of the options that have emerged in the past few years!

Wireless bras in larger sizes have evolved immensely with several companies focusing on breathable wireless bra options that support more like a traditional underwire bra. These can be great for sleeping and lounging but also double as a regular bra when you have to run to the store on Saturday.

Wireless bras are comfortable and breathable when the temperature goes up and perfect for lazy weekend activities.

5.  Try layering camisoles.

Do you need to make a piece of clothing work appropriate but hate the idea of adding extra layers? Try a cropped layering camisole for maximum breathability. These come in a wide variety of colors and styles and are perfect for summer layering. Some are even fancy and fashionable which allows you to style the same piece of clothing different ways.

Like slips, layering camisoles are also easy to wash and help you keep sweat and dirt off your favorite outfit! Since they are cropped they also won’t add bulk underneath your outfits or bunch up. Once you try them you’ll want to start a collection!

Do you have any tips for surviving the summer heat? If so, leave them in the comments! Did you learn any new summer lingerie from this article? If so, share it with a friend!

Related: How To Shop For Wireless Bras

Adriana Lace Bralette | Adriana Bikini in Raspberry

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Whether you’re shopping for new everyday bras or lingerie for a special occasion, it’s always a good idea to seek out a second opinion. We know how hard it is to find bras that fit well and feel good, especially when you’re doing it on your own. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your bra size or you just don’t know where to go to find good bras, it’s time to let a bra fitter help.

Many specialty lingerie boutiques offer bra fittings. Their expert bra fitters will take the pain and frustration out of bra shopping and do all the work for you. Even better, their product knowledge can save you time and money. Plus, they know where all of the best bras are hiding.

If you’ve struggled with finding bras in the right size, it’s time to make a change. Visit our specialty store locator to find a store near you and schedule an appointment.

Happy bra shopping!

Featured image lingerie:

Vanna Plunge Padded Bra | Vanna Hipster in Bare/Ivory