For us corporate girlies, dressing for the office when it’s a hundred degrees out just might be the trickiest part of your work day (IMO, often worse than dealing with a picky boss). It’s hard to strike the perfect balance between looking professional yet breezy, stylish yet put-together, without sweating. That's why I've taken it upon myself to help you with some go-to office outfit ideas that'll help you express your fashion sense while staying cool—and in HR's good graces.
When putting together outfits for sweltering summer days, layers are a working girl’s best friend. I’m someone who likes to always keep a cardigan or blazer on hand. Not only will it keep you cool when the office A/C starts to resemble the climate of Antarctica, but it’s also important in the event you get called into a ~very important meeting~ and want to look as professional as possible.
There’s a little something here for everyone, but remember that work dress codes are different in every office setting. The cute summer dresses I find myself living in at my magazine job might not cut it if you work in more buttoned-up fields like law or finance…in which case, help yourself to the preppy powder blue pantsuit below.
A suit set
Nothing excites me more than a good set. You'll look like a total boss wearing it, and extra credit if it comes in a bold color that’ll brighten up the mood when your team’s workload is piling up. To amp up that “Serious Business Woman” vibe, I’d style it with a pair of professional slingbacks and a luxe suede tote. Don’t forget to protect your eyes with a pair of blue light glasses that are as chic as they are useful!
A blazer and a miniskirt
A good general rule of thumb for wearing skirts in a corporate setting? Keep it around fingertip length, although you might be able to get away with your favorite mini if you work in a more creative space (heyyy, Cosmo!). The key to ensuring your ‘fit remains work-appropriate is by balancing your mini with an oversized blazer and a high-neck top underneath. Not only is it easy to tuck a jacket in your tote while en route to the office, but it’ll add some extra warmth once the powers that be start cranking up the AC.
Franco Sarto Senna Loafer
JW PEI Hana Faux Suede Tote
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, especially when you work in an office that trends a bit more traditional. Lean into lighter colors (Think baby blue, cream, or butter yellow) as well as breezy fabrics that are cooling and breathable, like cotton or linen. As someone who never says no to color, I’d pair my white maxi with bold pops of red and a chic hair pin that’ll keep your locks out of your face when you’re on deadline.
Madewell The Handwoven Leather Tote
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 flats for a pair of sandals on days when it’s simply too hot to wear a pair of closed-toe shoes. And if you’re someone who gets chilly at work, feel free to throw a button-up over your tank.
Madewell Oval Buckle Belt
Trouser shorts and heels
If you’re allowed to wear shorts to the office, try a loose, trouser-inspired pair (And if shorts don’t quite fit in your dress code, swap ‘em for a trendy, work-approved capri). I’d personally balance the shorts with a lightweight long-sleeved top, especially when it has eye-catching details like bell sleeves. For a fun pop, I’d go with a printed shoe that keeps the vibe easy-going—you can’t go wrong with an animal print mule as far as I’m concerned.
PRETTYGARDEN Bell Sleeve Top
Waist Wow Leather Belt
PAVOI Mixed Metal Chunky Dome Rings
An easy shirtdress
When in doubt, throw on a shirtdress. It’s my go-to style for mornings when I’m running late. Armed with accessories like a belt in a contrasting hue that’ll give your outfit that unexpected pop, you’ll look office appropriate while still getting to show off your personal style. Top it off with piles of jewelry that mimic the sculptural vibes of this ‘fit—I’m all about this silver and blue combo right now!
FASHIONGEN Leather Belt
PAVOI Silver Statement Huggie Earrings
Pls Back Chunky Silver Bangle Bracelets
Monochromatic white
Come summer, I’m living in my white jeans, so if your workplace allows denim, this is about to become an outfit you wear on repeat. I’m almost positive that you have a good white button-up in your closet (that’s quite literally as professional as it gets), so all you need to do is pair it with some chic accessories. I’m very into the way the pops of black break up with the white top and pants—but color lovers, feel free to accessorize with pieces in your hue du jour!
JASGOOD Braided Belt
JW PEI Aria Faux Suede Shoulder Bag
Madison McGee is a commerce editor at Hearst Magazines. For the past year, she has contributed shopping content, gift guides, product testing, and deals coverage across Hearst’s portfolio, which includes Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Men's Health, House Beautiful, Elle, Town and Country, Esquire, Country Living, Oprah Daily, and more. Prior to joining Hearst, she was a staff writer at BuzzFeed and worked in book publishing. Madison is a graduate of the University of Mississippi’s journalism program, and holds a Masters in Publishing from New York University. When she’s not scouting out the best deals, she can be found reading, cheering on the Baltimore Ravens, or exploring New York City’s indie bookstores.
