Say Goodbye to Winter Wardrobe Woes
Summer is here, and with it comes the challenge of dressing appropriately for the office while staying cool and comfortable. Gone are the days of heavy tailoring and winter boots – it’s time to embrace new, fresh colors, appropriate silhouettes, and breathable fabrics. Here are some tips for creating the perfect summer work wardrobe.
Hot Summer Work Outfits
Color is key when it comes to summer work outfits. Earthy neutrals like rust, cool white, and rich green are the perfect introduction to breaking the cycle of grey, black, and navy. These colors are not too intimidating for those who are color-averse and can be easily paired with other pieces in your wardrobe.
Embrace Prints
If you’re feeling confident, why not try incorporating prints into your work outfits? Digital palm prints are a great way to add a tropical, carefree vibe without going overboard. A bias cut midi skirt in a digital palm print can be dressed up with smart heels, a crisp shirt or t-shirt, and an oversized linen blazer for a sophisticated look.
Paisley print is also a great option for summer work outfits. Inspired by the carefree spirit of the ‘60s and ‘70s, paisley print is revitalized in a modern bold green and white print. Wear it head-to-toe in a voluminous sleeve mini dress, or choose to wear two paisley separates that can be mixed and matched with plain basics.
Detailed Cutwork
If prints aren’t your thing, detailed cutwork like broderie is a beautiful fabric alternative that still adds impact. Crafted in cotton, it keeps you cool and stylish. A collared shirt dress is a versatile design that can be dressed up or down with different accessories.
Casual Friday Outfits for Summer
Summer is a time for carefree attitude, and this should be reflected in your work outfits. Casual Fridays are the perfect opportunity to incorporate bold and beautiful fashion into your work wardrobe.
The Bold Pant
Wide leg pants are a great option for casual Fridays. They can be dressed up with a structured top and leather heel for the office, or dressed down with a bikini top and large straw sunhat for a poolside look.
Dinner, Drinks, or Theatre Plans
For those last-minute plans after work, a relaxed tiered midi skirt, cut-out tank top, and espadrilles are the perfect combination. Swap your work tote for a raffia or crochet white clutch and you’re ready to go.
Summer Professional Outfits
For those with more conservative office dress codes, there are still plenty of options for staying cool and looking professional.
The Pleated Midi Skirt
The pleated midi skirt is a wardrobe staple that offers sophistication without the structure. Tuck in a collared shirt, tie it at the waist, or wear it over a knitted tank top for different ways to style.
The Button Trapeze Dress
The Button trapeze dress is perfect for summer. Dress it up with statement earrings, a clutch, and sleek midi heels for after-dusk plans, or dress it down with wedge espadrilles, a woven leather belt, and a raffia sun hat for a daytime event.
The Head-to-Toe Linen Look
Linen is the perfect fabric for summer, as it’s light and breathable. Pair a high neck tank top with wide-leg pants for a jumpsuit illusion, or mix and match different linen separates for a coordinated look.