Beat the heat with these summer workwear essentials
Going to work in the summer is no joke—in fact, doing pretty much anything except lying horizontally with a cocktail in hand is kind of a big ask. But, alas, we soldier on, and because we’re fashion-savvy (among our many attributes), we do so in style.
Read on to discover eight wardrobe essentials that will help keep you cool at the office this season (air-con not included).
1. A linen dress
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If ever there were a summer workwear must-have, it’s got to be the linen dress. Linen is a lightweight, natural fabric that allows your whole body to breathe as much as possible, making it the perfect hot-weather staple.
-40%
Blanca Vita
pleated sleeveless linen midi dress - women - Linen/Flax - 44 - Brown
$340.00
$565.00
FARFETCH
-50%
Tommy Bahama
Two Palms Double Ruffle Linen Dress in Melon Berry at Nordstrom, Size X-Small
$64.00
$128.00
Nordstrom
Thought skorts were just for netball? Think again. Skorts offer a more practical alternative to mini skirts, as they eliminate all chances of chafing and awkward accidents.
Still think you can’t leave your fave mini skirt sitting in the wardrobe? A pair of tight biker shorts underneath will do the trick.
-30%
Hysteric Glamour
Women s Disco Sucks Pleated Shorts Red Multi
$223.00
$318.00
Slam Jam
endless rose
Corsage Mini Tie Skort Black
$63.00
Rue La La
-36%
Beyond Yoga
Team Pleat Miniskirt in True Black at Nordstrom, Size X-Large
$49.99
$78.00
Nordstrom
-50%
On
Women s FKA twigs Studio Skort Black
$61.00
$122.00
Slam Jam
3. A loose jumpsuit
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Sometimes jumpsuits definitely beat dresses, and summer workwear is one of those times. They don’t blow up in a breeze, and you look super smart and stylish having only put one item of clothing on. Winning.
4. Wide leg trousers
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Not only do wide-leg trousers make us feel like a glamorous actress from the 70s, but they’re also ultra-sophisticated and ideal for hot days, as they’re looser than your regular straight pants.
Go for natural fibres like cotton, linen, or lightweight denim, and try to steer clear of synthetic materials: polyester and similar will only trap heat and moisture in.
-69%
Cambio
Pants Beige
$95.00
$309.00
Yoox.com
5. An oversized shirt
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Commutes and stuffy meeting rooms have never been kind to tight clothing. An oversized shirt is essentially like wearing secret pyjamas to work – you look smart but you’re so comfy you forget.
Nic+Zoe
Plus Portofino Boyfriend Shirt Blue
$39.00
Rue La La
Mango
Lana Denim Shirt in Open Blue at Nordstrom, Size 10
$79.99
Nordstrom
-60%
Sportmax
Silk animal print shirt Beige
$137.19
$342.98
TheDoubleF
The midi skirt has pretty much been our saviour since 2018—it’s so easy to throw on, and if you go for a pleated or printed style then all you really need is a simple t-shirt and you’re good to go.
Walter Baker
Nelle Skirt White
$41.99
Rue La La
-60%
Free People
Suzy Raw Hem Denim Midi Skirt in Sun Stoned Blue at Nordstrom, Size 24
$51.20
$128.00
Nordstrom
Free People
Peyton Pintuck Pleat Midi Skirt in Washed Black at Nordstrom Rack, Size 12
$59.97
Nordstrom Rack
Sleeveless tops are a must during hot summer days, and if you play your cards right you can definitely get away with wearing one at the office.
Our advice? Go for a refined fabric like silk or viscose, and avoid spaghetti straps or deep V-necks. If you want to feel extra put-together, try a vest top or a two-piece suit!
-35%
JNBY
asymmetric cotton tank top - women - Cotton - S - Black
$131.00
$200.00
FARFETCH
Lafayette 148 New York
Swiss Cotton Rib Racerback Tank Purple
$248.00
Bergdorf Goodman
It’s too hot for laces and any shoe that has a back, OK?
Korks
Auburn Stud Clog in Dark Tan at Nordstrom Rack, Size 10 Brown
$79.97
Nordstrom Rack
-43%
Cole Haan
Womens Pollina Scalloped Mules - Black Size 6
$99.95
$175.00
Cole Haan
Børn
Elliot Clog in Tan Leather at Nordstrom, Size 10 Brown
$125.00
Nordstrom
-73%
J.W.Anderson
Mules & Clogs Black
$206.00
$764.00
Yoox.com
