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How to Make Your Business Wardrobe More Summery
By Harvey McEwan
It's not easy to sit cooped up in an office when the weather outside is so very sunny and warm. What makes it even harder is the dress code standards many of us have to comply with. Suits, blouses and ties can be suffocating in hot weather.
Fortunately, it is possible to make your summer business wardrobe different from the rest of the year by injecting a bit of colour, and adding some accessories.
Baring a bit more skin than you would during other seasons is also acceptable. Your boss won't call you aside for a chat for wearing a short-sleeved shirt. It's just important to strike the right balance between smart and casual.
Women's Summer Business Outfits
Women can generally afford to be more flexible with their summer business wardrobe than men. Dresses and skirts are a great choice for the summer months.
Make sure the length reaches your knees as this is the generally accepted standard. You shouldn't choose an outfit with a low-cut top. This isn't a professional look, and is more suited to parties and casual outings than the office.
Experiment with colours and fabrics. Team a classic black skirt with a coloured blouse, and feminine sandals. You can also use pretty, patterned scarves to jazz up an otherwise plain outfit.
Fabrics that are pleasant to wear in the summer are those made of natural fibres. Think cottons, linen and even hemp as these won't make you perspire. You can get business-appropriate dresses in these fabrics with button and buckle detailing. Teamed with a contrasting shawl, and strappy sandals, the look exudes classic French chic. Add a wide-brimmed straw sun hat, and sunglasses for even more glamour on your way to work, and back home.
If you prefer trousers to a dress or skirt, choose a pair of capris that cut off just above the ankle. These come in loose styles that will let your skin breathe. Pair them with a striped blouse or T-shirt, and a pair of chunky heels or platform shoes for a classy city chic outfit.
Men's Summer Business Outfits
Men are stuck with trousers, unfortunately. Shorts aren't really considered appropriate for business settings. You could just sneak a pair into your bag and get changed straight after work though...
But you definitely don't have to stick with black or navy. Black is really not a good colour for the summer months as it absorbs so much heat. Instead, choose trousers in light grey tones.
If you can avoid wearing a blazer, do. But if it's a requirement, then choose that in a light tone and fabric too. Linen is a great choice though you have to watch out it doesn't crease.
Ties should be avoided if possible as they can feel very tight around the neck in the summer months.
Choose short-sleeved shirts. Light tones are always hits in the summer so think blues, yellows and even pinks for the more adventurous. Mens clothing is getting more and more versatile and exciting when it comes to colour ranges.
Polo shirts are a great summer alternative to the usual office shirt. They are a smart style that many associate with class and quality.
In terms of shoes, thin leather styles work best in the heat, particularly ones with a hole pattern. Sandals are a business faux-pas for men.
Harvey McEwan writes to offer information and advice on a variety of areas, from mens clothing to technology to holiday destinations. View Harvey's other articles to find out more.
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