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In this article, we are sharing our best style tips when it comes to professional outfits for the hot days of summer – so you can be sure to stay cool and stylish at the same time.
Ah, summer—the season of sunshine, longer days, and unfortunately, scorching hot temperatures that are less than ideal for maintaining composure at work. For career women, navigating the fine line between staying cool and maintaining a professional appearance can be pretty challenging. But fear not! In this article, we are sharing tips and tricks to breeze through the hottest days looking polished and put-together. Keep reading for our best summer business outfit ideas.
Let’s get into our summer business outfit ideas!
Summer Business Outfit Ideas: Dressing Professionally in Hot Weather
We’ve all been there. When the temperature soars, the temptation to ditch the office attire for shorts and tank tops rises. For career women who work in more professional environments, this can present some challenges. How do you stay looking professional and put-together when it’s literally 100 degrees outside and you are sweating profusely?
Below are some summer business outfit ideas to help you dress professionally and comfortably at the same time.
Quick Tips for Dressing in the Hot Weather
1. Lighter Fabrics and Colors
- Opt for breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or lightweight blends. These materials allow for better air circulation, keeping you cooler throughout the day. Choose lighter colors like pastels or neutrals, which absorb less heat from the sun compared to darker shades.
2. Structured Dresses and Skirts
- A well-tailored dress or skirt made from lightweight fabric can be a godsend in hot weather. Look for styles that are knee-length or slightly above but avoid anything too short or form-fitting for a professional setting. Pair these with breathable blouses or tops that still offer coverage but don’t sacrifice comfort.
3. Culottes and Wide-Leg Pants
- Culottes and wide-leg pants made from breathable fabrics are stylish alternatives to traditional trousers. Pair them with a tucked-in blouse or a structured top for a chic and comfortable ensemble.
4. Flowy Blouses
- Opt for blouses or tops made from lightweight materials with flowy silhouettes. These provide ample ventilation while maintaining a sophisticated appearance.
5. Breathable Footwear
- Choose open-toe shoes or sandals that are office-appropriate. Look for styles with low heels or flats that provide comfort without compromising on style.
6. The Power of Layers
- Layering doesn’t necessarily mean added warmth. Create an outfit with a lightweight blazer or cardigan so you can easily throw it on during your meetings where you need to look extra sharp and just as easily take it off when you are just sitting at your desk.
Striking the Balance: Professionalism Without Showing Too Much Skin
The number one issue women face when the weather gets hot is showing too much skin in the workplace. Naturally, we want to be in sleeveless shirts and short skirts, but finding the balance is essential to ensure you are still showing up looking professional and polished.
Also Read 5 Expert Tips to Email Like a Boss
Summer Business Outfit Ideas: Quick Tips
1. Choose Sleeve Styles Wisely
- If sleeveless tops or dresses are acceptable in your workplace, ensure the straps are wide enough to cover your bra straps. Alternatively, opt for cap sleeves or short sleeves if you prefer more coverage. Avoid spaghetti straps or off-the-shoulder styles unless they can be covered with a cardigan or blazer.
2. Length Matters
- Whether it’s skirts, dresses, or shorts, keep the length appropriate for your workplace. Aim for hemlines that hit at or slightly above the knee. This way, if you pair it with a high heel, you don’t run the risk of looking too ‘clubby’.
3. Mind Your Neckline
- Avoid plunging necklines or overly revealing cuts. Opt for crew necks, boat necks, or modest V-necks that maintain a polished look without showing too much cleavage.
Ten Top Summer Business Outfit Ideas
Look 1: The Pink Skirt Suit
Who doesn’t love an instant outfit? The pink makes a statement, while the structure and attention keeps it super professional and chic. Pair with a well shaped white tee, so you can take the jacket off, but that’s highly unlikely with the office A/C blasting!
Look 2: The Flowy Summer Floral Dress
We love a good dress! Throwing on on some jewelry just elevates it that much more. The light floral pattern kicks up the otherwise minimal black dress. The shape hits you in all the right places making this a universally flattering piece.
Look 3: The Effortless All White Midi
A summer look book isn’t complete without at white dress. We love that it’s a midi so not worries on being inappropriate, but it has a sophisticated slit in the front. The exaggerated collar makes it all the more professional. Pair this dress with neutral accessories and you can easily wear this to the office or to your favorite summer getaway spot.
Look 4: The Classic Little Black Dress
A black dress is necessary at all times of the year. We love this piece because it’s not super form fitting so your body has room to breathe. Hitting just below the knee is the perfect length to show off a pair of black shoes.
Look 5: The Collared Linen Jumpsuit
Another instant outfit!While jumpsuits can be a bit uncomfortable to have on if you need to use a public restroom, we think the overall look is totally worth it. In a light linen fabric and beautiful nude color. This jumpsuit is a must have for those hot summer days where you still want to look polished.
Look 6: The Pop of Purple Blazer Dress
Who doesn’t love a blazer? Make it purple and into a dress, this is the perfect piece!
Look 7: The Chanel Inspired Suit Set
We are suckers for a good Chanel inspired piece. This set has it all and makes you look like the boss woman that you are. Pair it with the Chanel shoe dupes that we’ve mentioned in this article and you have everything you need to make a summer statement.
Look 8: The Bold Blue Tweed
All we can say is WOW! This piece is sure to make a statement. The color is perfect and a soft way to add color into your work wear.
Look 9: The wide leg linen trouser with a statement tee
A classic white pair of trousers is effortless and sophisticated. We love that these pants are super wide leg to really make a statement. Pair these pants with a white tee or a bold summer color and you have the ultimate summer look.
Look 10: The Nude Suit
We won’t lie. Here at ReysUp we are obsessed with the classic black suit. It is a no brainer when it comes to the perfect timeless office look. For summer, we opt for this nude alternative that makes the same statement. Don’t worry, they still have this outfit in black in case you are interested.
Essential Work Bag Products for Midday Refreshers in addition to Summer Business Outfit Ideas
So far, we’ve covered how to stay cool and look professional with your clothing choices. Now, let’s talk about a few handy products you should keep in your bag. Let’s face it, sweat and odors can still be a challenge, especially in the middle of the day. Having a few of these items on hand can really help you stay fresh and confident.
Quick Tips
1. Oil-Absorbing Sheets / Blotting Papers
- These handy sheets quickly blot away excess oil and sweat without disturbing your makeup. Keep a pack in your bag for midday touch-ups and quick fixes throughout the day.
2. Setting Spray
- A setting spray with a cooling effect can help lock in your makeup (so it doesn’t sweat off your face!) and keep everything in place throughout the day. Look for formulas that are hydrating and long-lasting. We personally love the Charlotte Tilbury spray here.
3. Facial Mist
- A hydrating facial mist not only cools you down but also revitalizes your skin. Choose one with ingredients like aloe vera or rosewater for a refreshing boost. We always opt for the Evian facial spray here.
Finding balance in comfort and style during the summer doesn’t have to be a daunting task, and you certainly don’t have to suffer through it. By following these summer business outfit ideas and upgrading your wardrobe and beauty routine, you can stay cool, comfortable, and professional throughout even the hottest days. Just remember, dressing for success in summer is all about finding the right balance between style, comfort, and workplace appropriateness. Happy summer!
