Breathable Thermals for Aussie Summers

Sweating through summer in your thermals? Yeah, no thanks. The idea of wearing an extra layer when it’s 30°C sounds bonkers, right? But here's the truth: not all thermals are bulky, sweaty or built for snowstorms. Some are designed to breathe with you, especially when they're made with Aussie heat in mind.

Enter The Foundation's Baseline Collection: cotton-rich, soft-as-air thermals that work with your body, not against it. These aren’t your grandmother's winter thermal spencers, they’ve had a serious make-over. Meet our TBL Cotton Singlet: the breathable, all-day comfort layer that flexes with you and keeps you cool when the mercury rises. These are smart thermal underwear layers you'll actually want to wear when the mercury rises.

Why Wear Thermals in Summer?

Let’s bust a myth right now: thermals aren't just for the snow. In fact, breathable base layers can be your best friend on hot, sticky days. Here’s why:

Moisture control: Lightweight thermals help manage sweat, pulling it away from your skin to keep you dry.
Temperature regulation: They insulate just enough to keep your body temperature balanced, avoiding sudden chills in air-conditioned spaces.
UV protection: Long sleeves add a layer of sun defense without piling on the heat.

So yes, you can wear thermals in summer. You just need the right ones.

What Makes a Thermal 'Breathable'?

It all comes down to fabric and fit. The Foundation’s summer-friendly thermals are:

Cotton-rich: Naturally breathable and gentle on sensitive skin.
Blended with stretch: So they move with your body, not against it.
Lightweight & thin: Enough to layer, but never bulky.
Tagless & seam-smart: Designed for all-day comfort.

Think of them as your everyday under armour but soft, feminine, and ridiculously comfortable.

And while we do have Merino wool options, it’s worth knowing that many thermal long sleeve tops use materials like that for heat retention technology. At The Foundation, we take a skin-friendly, breathable approach that’s perfect for everyday Aussie wear, such as our wool and cotton tank top with 100% cotton lining on the inside.

How to Style Summer Thermals

Whether you're dodging office air-con or heading out on an early morning walk, styling breathable thermals is easy:

1. Under Loose Shirts

Slip a lightweight thermal tank under an oversized linen shirt for a chic, sweat-free vibe. Try the TBL Modal Cashmere Tank Top breathable, elegant, and effortless.

2. Layered With Dresses

A sleeveless thermal crop pairs perfectly under flowy summer dresses no clingy synthetic bras needed. TBL Modal Camisole is a layering essential for breezy comfort.

3. Post-Swim Cover-Up

Pull on a breathable long-sleeve layer over swimmers for sunset drinks or breezy coastal walks. We love the TBL Modal Cashmere Long Sleeve Top it’s soft, drapey, and perfect for warm nights.

Pair it all with confidence, a wide-brim hat, and you're golden.

Best Breathable Layers From The Foundation

The Baseline Collection

Our go-to for trans-seasonal basics. These layers are breathable, stylish, and purposefully designed for the Aussie climate.

Highlights:

Slim-fit singlets, tees and crops
Seam-free comfort
Neutral, mix-and-match shades

Chantelle Soft Stretch Full Briefs

Not technically thermal, but essential for summer with no VPL, just smooth, lightweight underwear.

Choosing the Right Fit

For summer thermals, go for a close fit without compression. You want them to hug your body lightly, not grip it. Look for:

Wide straps or cap sleeves for versatility
Length that tucks in easily
Neutral tones that stay invisible under light clothes

Need bottom layers? Lightweight thermal tights make a great pairing for loose pants or skirts when you need coverage without heat.

Care Tips for Breathable Layers

Want them to last? Here’s how to show your layers a little love:

Wash in cold water, always
Skip the dryer, air dry flat
Avoid fabric softeners that mess with moisture-wicking fabrics

Final Thoughts: Comfort Is Cool

Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean you have to skip layering. Breathable thermals give you that soft, all-day comfort without the sweat. Whether you're commuting, lounging, or layering up for a late-night walk, The Foundation has got your back.

Discover breathable layers → Shop the Baseline Collection

FAQs

Are thermals too hot for summer?
Not if they’re breathable. Lightweight, cotton-based thermals keep you cool and dry.
Can I wear thermals under dresses or workwear?
Absolutely. Seamless, thin thermals are great for layering under dresses, blazers, or loose tops.
What makes your thermals different?
We focus on comfort, breathability, and Australian conditions. No heavy, snow-grade layers here.
Will thermals make me sweat more?
The right ones won’t. Our cotton-rich layers wick moisture and help regulate body temp.
Do you have matching bottoms or just tops?
We offer a curated mix of both! Check out the full Baseline Collection to explore.