Keep Cool And Carry On. What To Wear In The Office This Summer

As the weather heats up there’s only one thing to do – strip off. Sadly, however, there are times when this isn’t an option; like the five days a week we’re at work.

Whilst we might fantastise about walking into the office in a slouchy tee, a pair of hot pants and some flip-flops, we know that not even on ‘casual Fridays’ could we get away with it.

But what’s the alternative? To suffer in silence at our desks going redder than a Wimbledon strawberry?

It’s a seasonal conundrum: how to stay cool whilst avoiding those hot flushes/ ‘Inappropriate Officewear’ emails.

Follow our style guide to find out…

Do Loosely short

Going short isn’t normally advisable in the workplace, but if it’s stiflingly hot you can get away with it – as long you keep it loose. Flared shorts or a pleated mini skirt create the perfect optical illusion – they give the impression of length, whilst also exposing your pins to the heavenly air con.

Do: Silk shirts

If you’re worried about baring your arms, your best friend is the silk shirt. Cooling, feminine, very ‘office’… what more could you ask?

**Do: **Floaty flares

This 70s throwback is an excellent summer choice if trousers are order of the day. Very unrestrictive and bang on-trend, if they’re cropped, all the better. To work that retro look, pair with a sleeveless blouse – but make sure you avoid loud patterns. You’re in the office after all.

Sensible sandals

By ‘sensible’, we don’t mean dull. We just mean… sensible, or rather: footwear that relieves your feet from suffocating tights, without looking like they belong in a night club. So... a block heel? Perfect. A chunky wedge? Pushing it. A gladiator lace-up stiletto? Probably not.

Don’t: Show too much skin

Yes it’s tempting ­– who sweats in crochet? – but exposing too much flesh at work is a fashion faux pas of the highest order. No see-though lace, no cut-outs, no crop tops. Opt for thin materials instead, like cotton or linen.

**Don’t: **Wear black

Black may be slimming but, as well all know, it absorbs heat. If you don’t have a tan and therefore want to avoid white, it can be difficult – but pale yellows or pinks should do the trick.