This is proving to be an already miserable summer. The past two weeks have been in the nineties, not mention the constant sudden thunderstorms which only lead to higher humidity when they're done. Oh, and we're getting hail later this week. Awesome.

Because the air conditioning in my office is spotty at best, I've been brainstorming ways to help keep cool. There are the obvious ones, such as wearing lots of linen and other natural fibers. I also try to wear sleeveless dresses and then throw on a blazer or cardigan as needed. I've highlighted a few ways to help keep the sweat at a trickle and not a rushing river:


1// Band-Aid Blister Block: I've been using this particular blister block for several years and it's the best on the market. It has the consistency of a waxy chapstick that's used to help prevent blisters and chafing. I use it on both my feet and my inner thighs to prevent too much rubbing. It's great on feet, so-so in thighs.

2// Zeasorb: Several years ago while working in the airlines I developed a nasty rash around my bra strap while working in 120+ degree heat on an airport ramp. My mom gave me this powder and I've been hooked ever since. Zeasorb's main goal is to absorb moisture and keep bacteria at bay. I like to use this around my bra band and occasionally in other places I don't want to sweat too much. Depending on the shoes I''m wearing, I'll get those tiny flesh tone socks that only cover your toes and put some of this powder in to help kick the sweat. Do not put the powder straight into your shoes, it will mix with the sweat and form a cement that will not come out. I learned this lesson the hard way with a pair of J.Crew flats.

3//Monistat Anti-Chafing gel: I prefer to use this to help with thigh chafing. It goes on like a gel but turns into a powder. It works just as well as the blister block above but it doesn't last as long, but the blister block has that waxy feel I hate. I typically have to apply it twice during the day.

4// Sure Aersol Deodorant: Another product I've used for many years. I aim this stuff at my back, down my front, behind the knees, and pretty much anything. It helps take the edge of the dripping sweat factor.

5// Ban Total Refresh Cooling Body Cloths: Typically I keep a pack of cheap face wipes on me to help freshen up, but I'm intrigued by these wipes. They refreshen as well as cool, which sounds a lot better than a makeup remover wipe.

6// Ladies' cotton boxer briefs: A lot of times, people think skimpy skivvies are the way to help avoid some of the heat. The longer leg on these boyshorts help prevent with rubbing and do away with visible panty line. Also? They're probably the most comfortable underwear I've ever worn. Not sexy but I don't care a bit.

7//Lane Bryant Cooling Bra: I just broke the underwires in two bras so I'm definitely in the market for replacements. I've tried buying a few online but none fit, so I'm going to head into the mall this weekend to give these a try. The backs and the center part are made of mesh, and the cups are breathable. It seems like the mesh may not hold up as well as they're usual materials, but I'm willing to give them a shot if it keeps me cooler.


If you have a way of keeping cool in the summer, please don't hesitate to share in the comments!