The Summer Work Outfits You’ll Be Wearing on Repeat
3 min readYou’re probably starting to get a little tired of getting dressed for work in the summer. First, there’s the two-temperature problem: when it’s super hot outside, but the A.C. in the office makes it so cold you need to layer. Then there’s the challenge of finding clothing that’s lightweight but still polished. If you’re tired of wearing the same pair of linen pants two or three times a week, we’ve got you covered.
Through extensive market research and a keen eye for office street style, we’ve found the hottest trends for the hottest weather. Think: elevated takes on the classic button-up-and-trouser fit, cool-girl cargos that dress up an outfit, and shorts that, yes, you can actually wear to work. There’s also an outfit for every type of office occasion—casual Fridays, a business meeting, or just daily errand-running—so you can rest assured that we’ve got your work wardrobe covered.
Below, find the summer work outfit trends to partake in immediately. It’s already August; there’s no time to waste. And besides, a lot of these looks can transition seamlessly into fall, so think of these pieces as investments.
The business meeting basics
Take the classic button-up and trouser, and then play around with the silhouettes a little bit. Tuck in or tie up a lightweight blouse to define your waist. Follow it up with a pair of billowy balloon pants to bring the volume. Finish off the outfit with your classic accessories: ballet pumps, a black shoulder bag, some Ray-Bans, and, of course, corded headphones if you’re on the anti-AirPods wave.
An elevated casual Friday look
We love a monochrome white outfit, and we also love wearing shorts in the summer, so it’s only natural that we’re loving this white-on-white look. For casual Fridays or a more low-key office dress code, a pair of Bermuda denim shorts and an oversized shirt gives off the minimalist appearance. Give stark contrast with a black belt, shades, and slightly heeled thong sandals.
The easy, breezy neutrals
A neutrally hued look feels versatile and timeless. You can dabble in different textures to add intrigue to this look. Consider a crocheted polo and Matteau’s washer-finished skirt, paired with chunky leather mules for a final touch.
The professional polka-dotted maxi
This outfit exudes confidence, from the show-stopping polka-dotted printed dress to the oversized Chanel handbag. It’s bold and brazen, but it also transitions from a day of meetings to a business dinner with the right shoe.
The dressed-up cargo
Cargos can be corporate, especially if you turn to this faux suede pair from Scanlan Theodore. A simple white T-shirt goes a long way; tuck it or opt for a shorter cropped style. Elegant accessorizing will elevate the outfit, and Missoni’s speckled style ties it all together.
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