Historically, summer’s been the season that gets all the heat when it comes to sweat. Which, well, makes sense. But what we have to get out of our heads is the notion that perspiration protection begins in May and ends in August, because that assessment couldn’t be further from the truth. Autumn’s also got a hidden agenda to unexpectedly get you moist.

The trick is in the transition. Out from under the blistering summer heat, we’re quick to grab sweaters once the weather starts to dip the slightest bit. And then you step back indoors, where the heat’s been prematurely turned on, causing your sweat glands to rebel accordingly. Next thing you know, your shirt’s soaked through, a droplet’s formed at the tip of your nose and, well, don’t even get us started on the swamp-ass.

Now, we can’t blame you for wanting to embrace your fall wardrobe like it’s your dog and you’re a soldier in one of those tear-jerking military homecoming videos. But if you’re going to, you do need to take the necessary precautions and retaliatory measures against these inevitable perspiratory attacks. Of course, there are general sweat-proofing maneuvers that you can adopt, like using a stronger antiperspirant and applying it before bed. (This will give it time to sink in and inactivate your sweat glands while you sleep.) Also, avoid caffeine and spicy foods—they’re just as good as physical heat at moistening your skin. There are, however, also a handful of fall-specific options in your arsenal.

Layering might be Autumn 101 but in the context of sweat, it’s key. Shed pieces like jackets and sweaters when the temperature gets oppressive—just make sure that your ’fit underneath works by choosing dark fabrics and patterns that don’t show dampness as easily.

As for your base layer, go for something in cotton. We know that in the past, we’ve told you the opposite: that when the heat is on, cotton should be avoided at skin-level in favor of performance fabrics. But that was summer, when you were only wearing maybe a single layer above them; now that it’s fall and you’re bundled up, wicking fabrics will basically create a sauna in your drawers. Wearing a cotton base layer instead, whether tank, tee or boxer briefs, will allow your skin to breath, while absorbing moisture so that it doesn’t make its way to your shirt. Lastly, if you’re particularly predisposed to excessive dankness, lay off hats for as long as you can. Gotta let out heat wherever you can.

Or you could just say "Screw it," stash a fresh shirt in your office, throw it on when your pit stains get gnarly, and accept the inherent increase in your laundry bill. That’d work, too.

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