Tips & Trends | Top 5 Summer Office Wardrobe Staples

With summer – and warm weather, finally here, it’s officially time to trade in spring jackets and dark-coloured pants for sundresses and flowy tunics. Hot and humid temperatures can make dressing for the office a challenge, especially when you want to wear tank tops and shorts, but have to put on pencil skirts and blouses.

Whether your workplace is corporate or allows some dressing flexibility, stay cool and stylish in the office this season with the five summer office wardrobe staples below.

5. Culottes

Neither pants but not quite shorts, culottes come in a variety of materials, meaning there’s a pair that fits for whatever office you work in. These loose, flowy pants leave plenty of leg room to keep you cool. Form-fitting dress pants can leave you feeling sticky and sweating uncomfortably before you even reach the office.

These cropped pants made headway two seasons ago, and the look is still going strong. You may not want to wear a skirt every day, and unfortunately, most offices ban dress shorts. This solution is your happy medium. Pair with a fitted shirt to complement the wide leg.

4. Platform-inspired heeled sandals

For those who want to show off that fresh pedicure, these sandals are a must. It’s no secret that wearing heels around the office all day can be painful, but sometimes you need something with a little bit of height, instead of a full flat.

The platform is attempting a comeback, so there’s no better time than now to hop on this trend train and take advantage of a look that’s stylish and comfortable. Opt for basic colours like nude and black that work with any office look.

3. A light cardigan

The only downside to the increase in temperature outside is the crank of the AC inside. Light button-ups, cropped or long, three-quarter length or full-sleeved, cardigans are the perfect solution to keep you warm and cool at the office.

Keep one on your chair for easy access to stay warm without overheating, and still look refreshed for that two p.m. meeting. Cardigans are a major key – they work with everything. Try pairing them with the culottes above or the dress below. These items are multifunctional must-haves.

2. A Mad Men-inspired dress

The ending of this AMC drama was equal parts sad and fulfilling. The best part of this show was the many versatile and fabulous sixties looks featured. Bold colours, small polka dots, collared tops with pleated bottoms – these are just some of many great patterns to inspire you to find the perfect office sundress.

Give yourself a break from the pant suit. Dresses are versatile options for any girl and office appropriate styles are easy to find. Accessorize as you see fit, with a belt or bold necklace. Check out the Designer Swap shop for your perfect summer office dress!

1. Sleeveless waistcoats

Robes, drape vests, jackets – whatever you call them, this item continues to remain a staple on the streets and in the office. Not only do they look great, they also come in a variety of colours and textures, with crepe or satin materials that feel as light as a feather. Opt for a sleeveless style to stay cool (as long as your office is okay with bare arms).

Pair with cigarette pants and heels for a look that’s sleek, polished, and professional. Look for pairs that flap at the front, have the option to tie at the back or cinch in at the waist, and other fine-tailored details. It’s the perfect layering piece to take you this summer.

What are your go-to summer office wardrobe staples? Let us know in the comments!

Designer Swap is Canada’s online luxury consignment shop and Toronto-based fashion blog. We sell authentic and pre-loved designer pieces and write about the newest fashion and beauty trends. Make sure to check us out on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest!

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