I have tried commuting in both regular clothes and cycling specific clothes. Regular clothing would be great because you look normal and can hop off the bike and go to work without changing. Comfort level however? My commute is just under 8 miles and the temperatures here roll into the 90's in the summer with humidity and below 0 in the winter. I work second shift so often my summer commutes are in full sun and full heat just after the hottest part of the day. Long pants and a cotton shirt? Not a chance. Tried this and showed up to work drenched. Cycling clothes like jerseys and bibs have helped but it is still hot and you still sweat. Nice to change into something work appropriate after cooling down and getting cleaned up in the bathroom.

There is all this talk about upright bikes and regular clothes and you won't sweat after riding to work. I challenge those people to come here in the summer and ride with me for my commute. There is little to no shade and it is just under 8 miles. I tried riding slowly in a more upright position and guess what? I was sweating just as much, and was exposed to the sun and heat for a longer time, making me sweat as much if not more.

People at work know that I ride in more than I drive for the most part, and if they see me in cycling attire they know that I rode in. It isn't a big deal. When I walk in, I hold my helmet over my lower region to prevent people from being uncomfortable. Once you get a routine down, you figure out what works for hygiene and what you need to not stink. There is absolutely nothing wrong with wearing cycling clothes to ride a bike on. You shouldn't be looked down upon for choosing a healthier method of transportation.