Temperatures are up and it’s time to update your office wardrobe. You have to bear in mind that just because something is appropriate for the hot weather doesn’t mean that it would be also acceptable at the office. Scroll down to see my 6 tips on how to dress to feel cool and still look appropriate at the office during the summer!
1) It’s OK to look a bit more relaxed
You can do that by wearing lighter fabrics like cotton and linens in neutral colours, but remember that you still need to dress professional as you don’t want to appear too casual. Summer dresses are perfect for this as they will help you stay cool on hot days. Go for lighter and brighter colors and make sure that your hemline is at or below your knee. This stunning Victoria Beckham sleeveless style is cut in crepe with an elegant neckline and falls well below the knee in an asymmetric flare. Knot a belt to further design your frame.
2) Wear linen and other light fabrics
Fabrics are crucial when it comes to feeling comfortable and cooler during those long hours working in the office. Linen, silk and light cotton are always a better choice over denim when you want to achieve a more professional look.
Sometimes early summer mornings can be a bit chillier than the rest of the day. In this case, you can carry a lighter jacket, blazer or if you feel like you want to have your hands free — go for a cotton dress or a top with long sleeves which you can roll up or down. This stunning Oscar de la Renta stripe dress is fitted with a crew collar and belted waist. It can be worn by itself, or layered with skinny jeans for an elevated look — both appropriate work your workplace.
3) Play with color, pattern and accessories
It is summer after all, and this is the perfect time to show off your boldest and brightest attire. Pattern-mixing, florals, and pops of color — why not all of them together? You are allowed to go that bold with a statement-making piece like this stunning Oscar de la Renta dress below, as long as you keep the rest of the look and your accessories simple.
4) A white shirt goes a long way!
Everyone looks extra chic and professional in this classic piece. To feel cooler when the temperatures go up — go for a shirt with shorter sleeves, or roll them up. To give it a fresh new-season upgrade, pair it with some blue accessories, or add some blue in your bottom piece. This slim-fit, short-sleeved blouse is a reliable option for everyday formal looks.
5) Ditch the sleeves.
Sleeveless tops and dresses are appropriate in warmer months, but always make sure that you keep a light blazer or a cardigan to throw on for important meetings. Again, try to not overdo it and show too much skin at once. For instance, pair a sleeveless top with pants instead of a short skirt. Plunging necklines, open backs, and rising hems might be inappropriate for the office, so save them for your Saturday night out.
6) When in doubt, keep it simple.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong to play it safe sometimes and stick to the classics. We don’t recommend wearing black too often, so pick a timeless dress style, but in a vibrant color like this Grecian blue dress by Michael Kors. The pleated flare piece features a chain strap, a halter-neck, a fitted waist and a mid-length — super comfy, stylish and still professional for your important meetings. To give your look an ‘Audrey Hepburn’ vibe — keep the accessories to the minimum and go for a lower heel pump.
