Sorry, but there's nothing worse than figuring out what to wear to work when it's a hundred degrees out. Beach, brunch, or travel looks? Easy. But when it comes to summer work outfits, you have to strike a balance of looking professional and office-ready while also ensuring you won't sweat to death on your way (especially for us train commuters). Summer outfits are all fun and games until they're stuck to your skin minutes before a big meeting or presentation.
And then there's the fact that work dress codes are different for everyone. You might be able to get away with a cute summer dress in a creative office, but the same frock won't cut it in a more corporate setting. That's why I've taken it upon myself to help you with some go-to work outfit ideas that'll help you express your fashion sense while staying cool and in HR's good graces. If you need options that'll get you through the next few months, I got you. Scroll on for some easy, breezy summer work outfits!
A blazer and a miniskirt
A good general rule of thumb for wearing skirts in a corporate setting is keeping it around fingertip length... But if you're working in a more relaxed setting (heyyy, Cosmo!), then throw that rule into the wind! Wear your miniskirt with an oversized yet tailored blazer to add both a professional feel and some extra warmth once you get into that crisp office air conditioning.
Pinstriped patterns
Nothing screams "work" like a pinstripe ensemble, whether it's your favorite pair of slacks or a crisp button-down shirt. Bonus if you combine a few different pinstriped pieces for a low-key pattern-mixing moment.
An oversized button-up and maxi skirt
It's not just all about the miniskirt in the summer. The maxi skirt deserves some love, too! Lean into lighter colors (like baby blue and cream) as well as lighter fabrics that are cooling and breathable, like cotton or other natural fibers.
A suit set
Nothing excites me more than a good set, so obviously, I had to throw a summer suit in here. You'll look like a total boss, and extra credit if it's a linen set with the sleeves pushed up slightly for that lived-in, let's-get-down-to-business look. Pair with woven shoes, a bag, and your favorite "I'll handle this" sunnies.
A tank and a midi skirt
Keep things simple with your favorite tank top and add an office-ready element with a chic midi skirt. Depending on how strict your work environment is, you can swap out the sandals for some flats and throw a button-up over the tank!
A tweed set
Yes, you can wear tweed in the summer! Just go for a lighter material—think linens, wool/cotton blends, or silk tweed options. This bright blue tweed set screams, "I am very good at my job!".
Lightweight layers
Layering correctly will save you throughout the summer, especially for those of us constantly moving between wildly varied temperatures. Keeping a lightweight sweater on you will do the trick, and you can style it over a contrasting collared shirt with a pleated skirt for a preppy (yet professional) moment.
A midi dress and boots
Summer boots exist, people. Pick out a midi dress to wear with them (bonus points if the hem goes past the top of your boots—trust me, it looks so chic!) and you'll feel like the most stylish person at the water cooler.
A strappy top and linen suiting
Depending on what work is for you (hey, maybe you're the boss and you set the dress code), a strappy bralette and pantsuit could totally work. If that's testing the waters a bit too much for you, swap out the bralette for a silk tank top.
A denim top and some capris
Not allowed to wear shorts to the office? Try a trendy, work-approved capri. A fun printed shoe keeps the vibe easy-going, but if you need to dress it up, consider a loafer.
A windbreaker dress
Good news for the athleisure lovers: With a sporty fabric, your clothes won't stick to you, and you'll be ready for a post-5 P.M. workout or long walk home thanks to your windbreaker dress.
Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle about 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is Miss Supranational Haiti 2024, a Syracuse Masters graduate, and the author of three books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and TikTok: @iamtarahlynn.
