As the temperature rises during the summer months, it can be difficult to create daily work outfits that are both comfortable and professional.
This becomes even more challenging when we strive to incorporate stylish pieces that are office-appropriate and also align with our values of sustainability and ethics.
Although it may appear to be a tedious task, let’s not overlook the fact that summer also provides us with an opportunity to infuse some fun and imagination into our work wardrobe.
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Here are a few ideas that bring together comfort, style, and professionalism, while highlighting amazing ethical brands you can be proud to wear to the office.
RELATED: check out this post on how to build a sustainable and stylish spring capsule wardrobe
You’ll not only be stylish, but you’ll also remain comfortable all summer long. Because let’s face it, no one wants to show up to a morning meeting looking sweaty and flustered from their journey!
This post is about summer work outfits
Embrace Light Tones and Breathable Fabrics
When it comes to staying cool in the summer, lighter colours such as white, beige, and pastel shades are your best bet. Not only do they reflect sunlight, but they also make it easier to mix and match different pieces for multiple outfit options. Adding classic prints like stripes or subtle florals can give your look a bit of personality.
Selecting fabrics that enable your skin to breathe is essential for staying cool. Choose lightweight, natural materials like cotton (organic, when possible), linen, and bamboo. These fabrics not only help in keeping you cool but are also more sustainable:
- Cotton: Keeps you cool and comfy
- Linen: Highly absorbent, breathable and versatile
- Silk Blends: Lightweight yet adds a touch of luxury
- Bamboo: Cool, breathable and has antimicrobial properties
1. Tailoring
Swap out the blazer for a well-fitted waistcoat and coordinating trousers for a stylish summer ensemble, or switch it up by pairing knee-length shorts with a shirt or blazer.
- Knee-Length Shorts: Get a pair of tailored knee-length shorts in a neutral shade and pair them up with a crisp white shirt or slim-fitting top. Finish off the outfit with loafers or low-heeled mules and you’re good to go.
- Oversized Linen Blazer: A slouchy linen blazer can be easily paired with various outfits, making it a versatile and sound investment!
- Sleeveless Jacket or Waistcoat: A linen or silk blend waistcoat or sleeveless jacket is a sophisticated and versatile piece of clothing. You can rock them solo or team them up with a shirt or tee for a stylish outfit.
- Wide Leg Trousers: Pairing wide-leg pants with a cotton shirt or a basic tank top can keep you feeling comfortable and looking stylish, just stick to light, summery colours.
- Linen Suit: For the summer season, a linen blazer paired with matching high-waisted trousers in colours like pale yellow, beige, or light grey is always a stylish choice.
Grey shorts / Beige blazer / Houndstooth sleeveless jacket / Blue waistcoat / Wide-leg chino / Wide trousers / Linen suit
2. Tops and Lightweight Knits
Summer weather can be quite unpredictable, to say the least! Layering is definitely your best bet in such situations. Use thin layers, such as a sleeveless blouse paired with a light blazer or a knit, which you can easily put on or take off as the temperature fluctuates. After all, we all know how Arctic the office aircon can be!
- Knitted Cotton Jacket: A versatile knitted jacket made of breathable cotton is perfect for pairing with wide-leg trousers or a midi skirt. Pair it with a fitted top or blouse for a stylish and comfortable outfit. Finish off the look with some ballet flats or mules.
- Sleeveless Blouse: Go for a light and airy sleeveless linen blouse that can be paired with high-waist trousers or a wrap skirt, creating a stylish and effortless outfit.
- Classic White Tee: A crewneck white cotton tee is a versatile staple that can be effortlessly styled with a variety of outfits for a laid-back look.
- Knitted Cardigan: Select a cotton blend knitted cardigan in a neutral shade – it’s a must-have for those chilly moments in the office!
- Oversized Shirt: An oversized shirt is a great addition to any wardrobe. You can pair it with cropped trousers or knee-length shorts in a light, summery colour for a relaxed yet stylish look. Complete the outfit with a pair of loafers or sling-back flats.
Knitted jacket / Sleeveless pocket top / Linen vest / White tee / Knitted cardigan / Blue shirt / White shirt
3. Dresses and Jumpsuits
Stay cool and elegant in flowy, A-line, or wrap dresses and skirts made from sustainable materials. Put your stamp on your look with a waist-clinching belt or statement jewellery.
Expand your wardrobe by selecting clothing items that can be worn in multiple ways. For instance, you can easily transform a midi dress into a skirt by layering a shirt over it. Similarly, a jumpsuit can be styled with a blazer or a shirt to create different outfits.
- Utility Dress: A linen utility-style dress, cinched at the waist with a belt, creates a casual yet stylish appearance.
- Tank Dress: A great addition to your wardrobe would be an organic cotton tank dress that can be dressed up or down effortlessly.
- A-Line Dress: Choose a pale A-line dress made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Pair it with comfortable neutral-coloured flats and a lightweight blazer or knit for a chic and comfortable look.
- Cropped Jumpsuit: Go for a jumpsuit with a cropped straight leg made from a breathable fabric. This one-piece outfit exudes effortless style.
- Oversized Jumpsuit: For a laid-back yet sophisticated look, consider trying an oversized v-neck jumpsuit. Opt for a neutral solid colour or a subtle pattern and complement it with minimalistic accessories.
- Shirt Dress: A classic light and breezy shirt dress is a versatile and stylish choice for any occasion.
Utility dress / Tank dress / A-line dress / Linen jumpsuit / Oversized jumpsuit / Shirtdress
4. Footwear and Bags
Are you looking for a way to keep your feet cool and stylish? Classic loafers or breathable flats are the answer! Choose shoes that offer good support, perfect for those quick dashes from the tube to the office!
When choosing a summer bag, select a versatile shade in lightweight, breathable materials and avoid synthetic fabrics.
- Raffia Bag: A natural, lightweight raffia bag brings to mind carefree days and warm, sunny skies, making it the perfect summer accessory.
- Leather Tote: This classic leather tote bag is a versatile accessory that combines functionality with style.
- Sling Bag: A modern statement bag, crafted from recycled leather, can be worn high as a stylish crossbody or slung low to complement any outfit.
- Black Loafers: Loafers are a timeless style that can be worn in a variety of ways.
- Woven Mules: Just slide your feet into these lightweight and breathable woven mules made from cleaner leather and you’re good to go!
- Two-Tone Flats: These flats are giving an elegant Chanel-inspired vibe that will have you reaching for them all summer long.
Raffia bag / Leather tote / Sling bag / Loafters / Mules / Flats
5. Accessories to Consider
No outfit is complete without accessories. Consider choosing accessories that are crafted from recycled materials or produced using sustainable practices.
- Stylish Sunglasses: Upgrade your look and shield your eyes with a chic pair of sunglasses.
- Statement Jewelry: Elevate your look with statement necklaces or earrings for an added touch of style.
- Light Scarves: A lightweight, printed scarf can enhance the look of a simple outfit by adding a pop of colour and visual appeal.
Staying stylish, professional, and ethical during the summer is actually quite simple when you think about it. Stick to breathable fabrics, lighter colours, and loose-fitting designs to keep cool and comfortable throughout the summer months and mix and match these options to create your perfect summer work wardrobe!
