Work It Out: An End of Summer Office Attire Guide

By Kit Hamlen  |  August 31, 2016 | 10:30am
Style Lists Office
Work It Out: An End of Summer Office Attire Guide

Although summer may be winding down, the high temperatures seem to be lingering long into August, wreaking havoc on office attire standards everywhere. With mesh bralettes and denim short shorts as this season’s go-tos, walking the fine line between on-trend and office-appropriate has become all the more blurred and tricky when it comes to the dog days of summer. With an eye on fabric, hue and length, there are ways to retain your chill at work while still being able to have some streetstyle fun.

1. Tie-Waist Shorts via The LOFT

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Depending on the office, shorts at work may never be an option but with a sturdier fabric, understated color and cute accents like a tied waist or a cuffed hem, the twist on a summer favorite is hard to resist. Match with a breezy ribbon tie blouse and flats for a chic and effortless vibe.

2. KARTER Loafer via Topshop

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While sandals are typically a seasonal requirement, not every HR representative is going to be thrilled by toe cleavage. Opt for a low-heeled loafer sans socks to keep cool on the walk to and from work as well as save money by skipping the pedicure. A win-win in our books! A lighter pastel gives the shoe a summery fresh vibe long after the temperatures have dropped.

3. Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater via UNIQLO

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The best of both worlds, a turtleneck tank combines office-friendly coverage with a hint of skin. Relish in these last few weeks of sunkissed arms and lighter layers by keeping the balance. Try with straight-legged denim and ankle booties to amp this understated Friday office style.

4. Slim Tailored Jacket via ASOS

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Crepe blazers are the ultimate lifesaver when the air conditioning is on blast. Instead of having to lug a dumpy cardigan to and from work, the lighter fabric keeps you cool and collected during your commute and adds a little extra office pizazz when the board room feels like Antarctica. Light and breezy, the open front cut will transition nicely as the season comes to a close.

5. Midnight Blossom Dress via Anthropologie

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While the sundress is a summertime staple, the best way to approach a light and flirty cut at work is by not only considering the fabric, hue and length but also the accessories. A shorter hemline works well with longer sleeves and basic shoes while a tank dress appears more put together with heavy bangles and bold earrings. Darker color palates typically play best under harsh florescent lights but try for a textured fabric to add a little dimension to the look.

No matter what, summer office-friendly attire is a balancing act between staying cool, looking breezy and maintaining an appropriate style for your company’s culture. Whether conservative or progressive, a few ways to hit the mark at the end of summer is by light layers, playing with coverage and as always, staying true to you!

 
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