Summer dating hits different. The shirts are smaller, the eye contact is sweatier, and you’ve got exactly three seconds to decide if this man is worth ruining your hairline over.

When it’s 90 degrees and rising, the last thing you want is to show up to a first date looking like you just lost a fight with a slip-n-slide. But you still want to serve. You still want to flirt. And you definitely still want to get laid.

Here’s how to stay cool (literally and metaphorically) when your first date happens in the middle of a heatwave.

1. Choose the Venue Wisely

You know what’s not cute? Dripping sweat over charcuterie in a sun-drenched patio with zero shade and a wasp problem. Be strategic. Go for:

• A breezy rooftop with misting fans

• An air-conditioned art gallery (hello, cultured thirst trap)

• A casual late-night walk + ice cream combo

• A dark cocktail bar where you can pretend the sweat is just nervous excitement.

And if he suggests a hike? Block him.

2. Lighten the Layers, Not the Vibes

This is your moment to shine — and by shine, we mean glisten. Mesh tanks, breezy shorts, linen if you’re feeling classy, and jockstraps underneath it all in case things go well.

You want to look like you care, but not enough to pass out from heatstroke. Function is fashion when the sidewalk is melting.

3. Hydrate Like a Professional Thirst Trap

Start with water. Then more water. Then maybe a frozen cocktail with a sexy name. Dehydration is not a good look when you’re trying to flirt and your top lip is sticking to your teeth. Stay moist — in all the ways.

4. Sweat-Proof Your Flirting

Dab, don’t wipe. Powder if you must. And if you’re worried about pit stains, go sleeveless and make it fashion. Also, own it. Everyone’s sweaty. You can either be embarrassed… or be the guy who says, “God, it’s hot… or maybe that’s just you.”

Ten out of ten. No notes.

5. Keep the Touch Light and the Eye Contact Heavy

When it’s this hot out, even a thigh graze can feel electric. Use that. Sit close. Let your knees touch under the table. Playfully wipe imaginary sweat off his neck. It’s flirtation with built-in foreplay. Efficiency is sexy.

6. Know When to Cool Down (or Strip Down)

If the vibe is right, suggest moving somewhere with AC. Or back to your place for “cold drinks and fewer clothes.” It’s not subtle — but subtlety is overrated when it’s 100 degrees and you’re already fantasizing about his tan lines.

Bottom line?

Heatwaves are brutal, but summer dating doesn’t have to be. Keep your look breezy, your attitude chill, and your expectations fun. And if nothing else? You’ll leave the date knowing you looked hot — even if you were melting just a little.

Need something light, flirty, and heatwave-proof?

Check out our mesh tanks, soft shorts, boy bikinis, and jocks made for rising temperatures and low inhibition. Because love might be fleeting — but your fit should last all night.