Professional summer office style is possible, even when it is hot outside. The key to mastering the summer style is making sure you know what is acceptable in your environment.
Check out my selections for summer haute-ness that are not only fashion forward, but workplace appropriate.
The Sheath Dress
This is one of the most versatile items in your summer wardrobe. Printed or solid, linen or cotton, you can easily dress it up or down for your comfort. If your office culture is more reserved, or if you tend to get chilly, pair your sheath dress with a lightweight blazer or a cute cardigan.
Take a look at my top picks for sheath style dresses:
Oscar De La Renta Sheath Dress in Mint – Photo via Farfetch.com
BCGMaxAzria Pieced Sheath Dress in Bright Poppy – Photo via Belk.com
Cache Multistripe Sheath Dress – Photo via Cache.com
Skirts
As you can imagine, anything that shows your legs is cooler than wearing pants when the weather is hot. This summer, there are so many options from which to choose; A line skirts or pencil skirts in cotton can be worn casually or to show someone that you mean business. Pair your skirt with a colorful printed blouse and a bright blazer if you want to bring some pizzazz to your meeting.
Anatomy of a Pencil Skirt: image via yourfinderskeepers.blogspot.com.
ASOS Pencil Skirt – Photo via Asos.com
Karen Millen Color block Cotton Skirt – Photo by KarenMillen.com
Karen Millen Cotton Skirt in Pink – Photo by KarenMillen.com
Shoes
Many of us wear comfortable shoes while commuting to work and change to a snazzier pair of shoes once we hit the office door. This summer you may be able to put the flip flops away because there are so many options that are comfortable and office appropriate. Sling backs, bright flats and kitten heels are on trend and will allow you to go from desk to date a bit easier.
My summer shoe picks:
Ann Taylor Mara Leather Kitten Heel Sandal – Photo via AnnTaylor.com
Victoria’s Secret Mary Jane Slingbacks – Photo via beso.com
Sigerson Morrison Belle – Photo via Piperlime
Quick Tips:
- Breathable fabrics are much cooler for warm weather. Cotton and linens have natural fibers to ease the summer heat. Silk chiffon is another option when trying to stay cool.
- Bring a cardigan to stay comfortable in cooler offices. If your office environment requires a blazer, make it a light material, like cotton or linen. You can always put the jacket away when you head to lunch or clock out.
For Quick Reference, check out this Pinterest Board dedicated to Summer Office Style.
By Fashion & Style Contributor, Karen Curtis, yourstylistkaren.com
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