Summer outfits for work can be a tricky one to navigate when you’re moving between the heat outside to air-con blasting inside. On top of the varying temperatures, we need to remain looking smart and professional too. To avoid a sartorial meltdown (literally!) we’ve got the lowdown on how to dress for the office in the summer.
If there’s one thing to remember when it comes to summer office outfits, is that layering is key. Think the best blazers, lightweight trench coats and the best cashmere sweaters - smart pieces from your capsule wardrobe that you can easily take on and off depending on the temperature. Fabric also plays a part so when it comes to the best midi dresses for work this summer, look for natural, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen that will keep you cool and comfy in the heat.
Summer work outfits aren't as restricted as they used to be, as office dress codes have become more casual, particularly in this post-pandemic period, giving us a bit more freedom to dress more comfortably and experiment with fashion trends 2022. Try swapping your trouser suit for some chic tailored shorts or a long-sleeved shirt for the best t-shirt and tapered trousers for a high-low mix that still looks professional. To help you navigate your summer outfits for work, we’ve rounded up our favorite looks that will keep you looking stylish and smart 9-5.
Summer outfits for work as chosen by a fashion editor
1. A shirt dress
For a feminine take on tailoring the best shirt dresses are always a classic. The figure-flattering silhouette cinches you in at the waist and A-lines out at the skirt for easy movement and makes a great option for a summer work outfit. Stick to a midi length design to keep it professional and style up with sleek mules, or mid-heel pumps if your office has a smarter dress code. With added versatility, this is a look you can also rock at the weekend - just swap those best designer heels for the best white trainers to render it brunch-ready or wear open over your swimwear as one of the best beach cover-ups.
A style tip…
If you need an extra layer, throw on a smart sweater vest. The sleeveless style is lighter than chunky knitwear and perfect for changing temperatures. Check out our guide on how to style a sweater vest for more outfit ideas.
Fashion editor’s picks…
RRP: $29.99 / £19.99 | This breezy dress is a warm-weather hero and one of the most stylish dresses to hide a tummy. It has a loose fit with a built-in tie waist for added structure and has long sleeves which can easily be rolled-up if you’re too hot.
RRP: $99.99 / £59.99 | Crafted from a light, airy fabric this is a summer staple. The striped print keeps it chic and timeless whilst the statement buttons and wide sleeves add a modern spin. Ideal for work, team it with espadrilles and a raffia tote, a style winner.
RRP: £201.26 / £159 | When a heatwave hits, this sleeveless style will be your go-to. Made from 100% linen, it’ll keep you cool in the heat. It has a loose, relaxed fit for effortless style and there are handy pockets too. Smarten up with a tailored blazer.
2. Tailored Shorts
We’re afraid your denim cut-offs won’t quite cut it when it comes to summer outfits for work, but that doesn't mean shorts are a complete no-go. There are plenty of chic, tailored styles that are office worthy. Look for designs that sit high on the waist and fall just above the knee for a flattering fit that still looks smart. Pull out all the stops and team with a coordinating blazer or wear with an elegant blouse and simple court shoes for a stylish take on the trend.
A style tip…
Take this look from boardroom to bar and swap the blouse for a silky cami or one-shoulder tank top.
Fashion editor’s picks…
RRP: $475 / £268 | When it comes to summer tailoring, this single-breasted blazer ticks all the boxes. In a linen blend, it’s lightweight and the green hue gives a nod to the fashion color trends 2022. Wear with the matching shorts for one stylish power pairing.
RRP: $225 / £138 | Sitting high on the waist with flattering pleat detailing on the leg, these shorts are ideal for pear-shaped bodies. Ideal for the office, paired with any of the best shirts, they’ll look just as good styled with trainers at the weekend too.
RRP: $195 / £125 | Whether you pair it with your best jeans or tailored trousers, this pretty blouse will add a charming touch to your look. The frothy buttercup hue will go with everything and we love the chic ruffle detailing for a frivolous finish.
3. Sleeveless suit
A tailored two-piece is a 9-5 staple and one of the most versatile items to add to your closet this summer. Whether you opt to wear it as a suit, or separated out and teamed with various wardrobe essentials, a tailored two-piece even looks great with sneakers at the weekend too. If you loved learning how to style gilets, then sleeveless blazers and waistcoats are the summer switch out you need. Injected with the dopamine dressing trend, expect bold pops of color alongside neutral hues. As designs are more tailored than your best gilets, a waistcoat and matching trouser or short co-ord makes summer work outfits a cinch.
A style tip…
This look isn't just for summer though. Render it winter-ready by layering a sleeveless blazer over a fine knit roll-neck for added warmth.
Fashion editor’s picks…
RRP: $135 / £79 | This waistcoat can be worn on its own or layered over a white tee for added coverage. It has a slight nipped-in waist for a smart, tailored fit and it’s crafted from a breathable Ecovero™ viscose-linen blend.
RRP: $150 / £99 | These trousers are the epitome of easy summer tailoring with a flattering wide leg and central pleats for a slouchy look. Offset its relaxed style with a more fitted top and stick to a neutral color palette.
RRP: $49 / £49 | A pair of comfortable flats are a must if you’re on your feet all day and these don’t compromise on style either. They have an easy slip-on design and the chic beige and tan color combo will go with everything.
4. Skirt + Tee
This simple getup always looks polished and it’s an easy one to dress up or down, depending on the dress code in the office. Taking you easily from office to evenings out, don't forget to add playful details, such as statement jewelry - for a dose of personality. If you opt for a printed skirt, pair it with a block-colored top, to avoid the look becoming overwhelming. And if it gets a little bit chilly, this is the ideal combo for learning how to style a blazer, offering an extra layer that's not too heavy, it will keep your look smart too.
A style tip…
Nail that smart-casual aesthetic and wear a silky skirt with a simple cotton tee. Team with sneakers or your best sandals for a laidback but still chic summer look.
Fashion editor’s picks…
RRP: $199 / £99 | Switch up your go-to prints for this vibrant design to stand out from the crowd. A simple button-down design and a lightweight feel it’s perfect for the heat. Keep the rest of your look simple and let your skirt take center stage.
RRP: $69.50 / £78 | Introducing your new summer office outfit hero. Crafted from lightweight, breathable linen, this tank has a relaxed boxy fit, with a cute button detail at the back. Available in four essential shades, you’re going to want them all.
RRP: $49.90 / £29.99 | When it comes to shoes for summer office outfits, swap stilettos for a block heel for all-day comfort that still adds height. We a contemporary square toe and an easy slip-on style, these will be particularly stylish teamed with green.
5. Wide leg pants + Shirt
When it comes to effortless summer outfits for work, you want to avoid anything too restrictive so ditch your best skinny jeans for a floaty wide-leg cut. Wide-leg trousers always look elegant and they have serious leg-lengthening powers too. Win-win! Summer is also the perfect time to wear a lighter color palette. An all-white head-to-toe look is incredibly chic and will always look expensive, so team your cream wide-leg trousers with a white linen shirt and you’ve mastered effortless office dressing. Finish with some of the best sunglasses in an oversized style.
A style tip…
For an extra layer on your commute, go for a lightweight trench coat. Forever timeless and chic, it’ll protect you against the elements but can easily be rolled up and stashed in the best backpacks.
Fashion editor’s picks…
RRP: $285 / £165 | A breathable blend of linen and cotton, these stylish pants feature statement pockets on the legs for a nod to the utility trend. They have a cropped finish making it easy to show off your shoes too.
RRP: $99 / £75 | Every closet needs a white linen shirt and you won’t regret investing in this one. It has an oversized fit making it ideal for layering and styling as you please. Also available in a zesty orange hue for a bolder look.
RRP: $145 / £89 | Another strong choice of trouser that’s worthy of some attention, this linen design will cheer up the dullest of office days. There’s a matching shirt for a statement head-to-toe look or stay lowkey with a white shirt.
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