Let’s be real: Dressing up when it’s sweltering outside is entirely unappealing, but in many offices, you still have to do it. So, how do you build a work-appropriate summer wardrobe? Read on for tips on looking professional in the heat.
Breathable Fabric
Many go-to work fabrics like wool and tweed are suffocating during the summer. Instead, you’ll want clothes made of satin or linen. The breathability of satin comes from how it is woven, which involves passing warp threads over multiple weft threads, making it less dense. Linen is another great option because it is made with flex fibers. It also dries quickly, reducing heat retention.
Our Picks:
- Steve Madden Tori Dress ($99, shop here)
- Garnet Hill Smocked-Waist Linen Midi Skirt ($149, shop here)
Go Sockless
Skip socks this summer and opt for open-toe sandals or heels. Many beautiful heel options won’t make your feet sweat. And if you prefer to stay closer to the ground, choose flats to wear with trousers or a dress.
Our Picks:
- Naturalizer Joy Sandal ($119.99, shop here)
- Softwalk Cypress Sandal ($114.99, shop here)
Sleeveless Tops
Sleeveless tops can be work-appropriate, depending on how you style them. Opt for high-neck or V-neck pieces – or cover a spaghetti-strap tank with a lightweight jacket.
Our Picks:
- Boden Georgia Linen Sleeveless Top ($80, shop here)
- White House Black Market Satin Ruched Neck Shell ($79, shop here)
Loose Pants
Pants with a wide-leg finish allow space between your skin and the fabric, allowing more air circulation and helping you feel less hot and sweaty. Unlike tight-fitting pants, they don’t trap sweat.
Our Picks:
- Madewell The Harlow Wide-Leg Pant ($118, shop here)
- Maeve The Ettie High-Rise Crop Wide-Leg Pants ($130, shop here)
Work-Appropriate Minis or Midis
If your job allows, a work-appropriate miniskirt can be a great choice in helping you stay cool through the summer heat. Like wide-leg trousers, minis allow less fabric-to-skin contact than longer skirts or pants. Midis are generally more accepted in office environments, and though they are longer, they still offer breathability.
Our Picks: