At least once a month, I Google the same thing: “what to wear on your period.” It may seem like a weird question, especially since I am 21 and have been at the mercy of my uterus for at least a decade, but picking out the right outfit during that time of the month is hard. Each “how to dress on your period” guide I have found focuses on the same outfit type, or focuses on what to wear during the cooler times of the year, where sweatpants and sweaters are not only acceptable but necessary for the chill.

For the most part, most people who experience periods gravitate towards an outfit with pants (preferably leggings, which yes, are pants in my opinion) and then whatever cozy top of their choice. But what do you do when those hot weather months roll around, where swimsuits and dresses reign supreme and long pants are uncomfortable to wear in the heat?

True, everyone and their style/clothing needs are different, but I decided to put together a few suggestions/outfit ideas to get you started. Periods are part of everyday life, so you shouldn’t have to put your summer on hold just because your uterus is doing its thing.

For when you want to be in bed, but you need that paycheck:

Sometimes, it seems being comfortable and professional is impossible. Enter the t-shirt dress. It is light enough to combat any heat wave, soft enough to keep you comfy when you'd rather be in bed with your heating pad, and loose enough that any bloating is no big deal. If you want extra protection and reassurance against any leaks, slip some shorts under the dress! Flats keep your feet comfortable and grab your favorite work bag to round out an outfit perfect for an internship or first job!

For when attendance is mandatory but your uterus is protesting:

Summer classes are sometimes a necessary evil, but that math class you have to drag yourself to is about ten times worse when you're dealing with cramps and heat.

Keep your backpack stocked with more than just your homework by slipping in snacks to combat period hangry feelings and some extra tampons or pads (unless you are a diva cup/thinx panties kind of girl). Avoid denim shorts (because heat chafing is the last thing you need right now) and slip on some dark, soft shorts. The button-down keeps things looking cool and classy (for when you have a presentation) and the sneakers make it easy to dash to the next class!

When your S.O. or your friends don't want a night in:

Unfortunately, periods cannot stop those social obligations that you agreed to when you weren't PMS-ing. Slip some backup supplies in a cute purse, strap on your sandals and slip on some sunglasses to hide those bags under your eyes (because honestly, who sleeps well on their period?). A maxi dress is perfect for those days when you need to look put together but you'd rather be in sweatpants. The flowy skirt hides any bloating, and the length will hide any shorts you slip on for peace of mind.

For when you can actually stay home and treat yourself:

Crank up the air conditioning, because you do not have to leave the house today!

Easily the best day ever, you can lounge about in your favorite pajamas and just enjoy laying in bed, never leaving your heating pad and favorite Netflix show. Will you take a nap? Will you pamper yourself with an at-home spa day? Make yourself hot chocolate despite the heat outside? It is all up to you. Congrats-- you survived another period!

Periods are tough to deal with, especially when the heat tries to interfere with your comfort. However, with these outfit ideas (or whatever you want to wear-- you do you!), you do not have to worry about wasting your summer fun during that time of the month.