Overview
The clothing you wear will largely depend on the weather conditions where you go. For the vast majority of backpackers, who take their trips during the summer months, the attire is light, with an emphasis on sun protection, dealing with sweat, and the ability to add layers in the off-chance of in-climate weather.
Cotton is the enemy. Cotton soaks up water, is slow to dry and, most importantly, causes chaffing. When I was a kid, I used to hike in cotton skivvies and denim cutoff jeans. This is bad. Cotton t-shirts are bad. Focus on synthetics and wool. Wool is great because it's light and wicks moisture during hot conditions, and provides warmth and insulation during cold.
Even during the summer, I have been bamboozled by unexpected summer storms. In Tuolome Meadows in California in August, after bagging a peak, my friend and I saw the weather turn from blue skies and sunny, to blizzard conditions in a matter of an hour. The day that began with 70 degree arid conditions, ended with both of us huddled in our tent while big, wet flakes piled up all around us. This is a rarity, but it does happen. You should pack accordingly. Here's how.
Underwear
Icebreaker makes great underwear for men and women. As mentioned, wool is best. I know this sounds a bit odd, for hiking during the summer in hot conditions but it works.
In addition to the usual underwear, you're going to want to bring along long underwear. I recommend synthetics. If you're willing to drop a little cash, Patagonia Capilene and similar products are great. Light to mid-weight is best. I just use the long underwear that I use for backcountry skiing/snowboarding. The extra layer is really important when the temperature drops at night.
Shorts and Shirts
You want long-sleeve shirts that are lightweight.
You want some lightweight hiking pants that have the options to zip off and become shorts. Here's a good example:
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