Dressing for the summer can often mean one thing, while dressing for the office is quite often something different altogether. And with remote work at an all-time high, it can be hard to recall your typical office attire. Besides, it seems like the rules of summer workplace fashion are constantly changing. So, how can you throw some vitality into your otherwise tired summer office wardrobe?
Office workers can jazz up their summer apparel by incorporating simple items such as modest skirts, layers (to combat overzealous office A/C), and linens into their looks. In addition, it is always important to match the general atmosphere of the office and meet all expectations for business casual attire.
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What is Business Casual?
Summer is a time for experimentation, and as long as you are smartly dressed, you can get away with a lot of different looks. In general, “Casual Friday” is a great time to test the response to more laidback ensembles like pencil skirts and cardigans paired with a comfortable pair of flats.
Keep the following in mind when coming up with your own office summer fits:
- Be sure to adhere to any edicts given if your office implements a casual dress policy.
- Dress to match your office’s atmosphere; some will expect formal touches, while others will be fine with athleisure wear.
- (And, it should go without saying, but try to avoid wearing anything that could be controversial for the workplace.)
Modest Skirts
Skirts are always a versatile item to add to any summertime wardrobe. However, a more modest skirt is often the way to go when dressing for the office. Maxi, midi, and pencil styles are popular skirt styles for the workplace.
And modest skirts are preferable for a couple of reasons. First, the added coverage will provide warmth if your office blasts the A/C. Second, modest skirts are almost always going to be office appropriate—especially when compared with mini-skirt options.
Give Summer the Jump(suit)
If you think disco fever when you think jumpsuit, think again! The classic jumpsuit can be a versatile part of any summer office outfit. However, when looking for office-appropriate jumpsuits, it is always best to go with looser fitting and muted colored options.
Give Your Wardrobe a Layer Up
The environment is often a conundrum this time of year. It will frequently be boiling outside and frigid inside. So what is one to do? One of the best outfit hacks is to have an easily removed outer layer. This outer layer could be anything from a cardigan to a button-up or sweater. This trick works great for those who commute to work but still need to be covered up at work.
White Jeans and Collared Patterns
This outfit won’t be suitable for every workplace. Still, if a more “work and play” vibe is what you’re looking for, white jeans and a collared shirt might be the classic summer combo for you. When it comes to choosing suitable patterns for the office, remember that the simpler, the better.
Linen for Lightness
Especially when the weather services are predicting scorching temps, linen can be a lifesaver. Linen is the ideal summer fabric because it is light enough to be worn in full coverage styles and still be comfortable. In addition, the breathability of the natural fibers makes it particularly cool, and the texture of the linen allows for additional, subtle visual interest.
None of this should come as a surprise. Linen has been used for summer garments for centuries. Lately, however, it has been proven the most comfortable fabric option for summer, surpassing both cotton and silk in the process. According to Vogue, linen is so great for summer because it can absorb moisture while retaining enough stiffness to keep the fabric from sticking to the skin. These properties help linen wearers stay naturally cooler.
Modal Dresses
Modal dresses are perfect for the office because they overdeliver on the style front while remaining open to change, thanks to their customizable nature. For example, you’ve probably seen a modal bow dress out and about. This popular summer fashion looks like a standard sundress with a tie in the front. As you know summertime is coming, you can also explore the collection of other summer dresses for women to make you more fashionable.
Adjusting the bow is where all the action is in a modal dress. Tighter bows mean the dress will be cinched more closely around the wearer. This ability to change looks at the tie of a bow makes modal dresses great for summertime after-work shenanigans like concerts in the park.
Wear What Makes You Comfortable
In the end, wear whatever summer outfits will make you feel comfortable around the office. Anyone can quickly build a chic summer office wardrobe by taking advantage of the above ideas, such as layering, wearing linen, and incorporating modest skirts. So, don’t be afraid to mix up your look this summer, but always remember you’ll only ever look as good as you feel—so be sure to be comfortable at the same time.
