How To Dress Professionally In Hot Weather

Hot weather is around the corner. We aren’t talking just the temperature but the high humidity which makes your skin sticky, sweaty and uncomfortable. We particularly dislike it because every day is a bad hair day but that is another topic! Looking forward the weather in Michigan is forecasted to get into the 90’s this week and our summer has just begun. That is simply way too hot!!

The high temperatures are difficult if you work and have to dress professionally in the summer. The biggest issue is experiencing the heat getting to and from the office but entering your office to realize the air conditioning is creating an environment where you are so cold you have to put a jacket or sweater on. The swings in temperature are difficult when figuring out what to wear in the morning.

Depending on your profession every workplace has it own policies and dress codes. Some offices require professional attire throughout the week and others have a relaxed dress code allowing for shorts, tshirts and maybe even flip flops! Some offices require professional attire throughout the year but not during the summer.

We have put some thought into this and have come up with a few tips that we hope are helpful.

How To Dress Professionally In Hot Weather

Tip # 1

Wear light clothing….not dark clothing

Try to dress in light colors like white, beige, light grays and blues. Light colors such as pinks, greens and violet will also work. Black has always been one of our favorite colors but you may want to keep it at a minimum.

Tip # 2

Wear loose clothing

Loose clothing like dresses and skirts are a good choice when dressing in the morning. Loose clothing will allow the air to flow rather than tight and restrictive clothing. Restrictive clothing will not allow the skin to breathe which it needs to do to keep you cool.

Tip # 3

Layering is helpful especially if you work in an air conditioned environment

Val always kept a couple neutral wraps and sweaters in her office when employed professionally. The air conditioning was brutal. If you have the same issue this is a good idea as you will be happy you did. Light layers such as a well fitting shell under a blazer or a cardigan sweater over a tank top or sleeveless top. A cardigan over a sundress or a sleeveless top and skirt is another example.

Tip # 4

Try to dress in natural fibers

Natural fibers such as linen, cotton, chambray and rayon are the best. Breathable, lightweight fabrics are another positive choice to staying cool this summer.

Tip # 5

Going sleeveless or short sleeves will help with the heat

This goes without saying as you can always throw on a very lightweight jacket, cotton sweater or cardigan if you are unhappy with your arms. A sleeveless dress with a jacket is always a great look.

Professional Outfits In Hot Weather

Workplace Outfit # 1

This Modern Citizen dress is one of our all time favorite dresses. The fabrication is 95% cotton and 5% spandex to add some body to the dress. The wrap tie is figure flattering and the light color makes it a dress to wear in the summer. Bring a cashmere wrap to the office because it seems like the air conditioning is always way too much!! This outfit is very professional but yet comfortable for those long days in the office.

Workplace Outfit #2

You will be so happy to have this Cinq A Sept blazer in your wardrobe….you can wear this blazer all throughout the seasons! Val owns it and has worn this blazer on repeat! Staying warm in an air conditioned work environment is essential for concentration but the light and flowy blouse will keep you cool outside. The blouse is 100% silk and the beautiful paisley print will go with so many items in your wardrobe.

Workplace Outfit #3

This dress would look good on so many women…the silhouette is feminine and it is a beautiful dress for professionals to wear to work in the summer. Caramel colored accessories are a must for your summer wardrobe. The neutral shade compliments so many other colors too which makes buying caramel colored accessories a must for summer!

Workplace Outfit #4

A jumpsuit is another great option for the workplace. If the air conditioning is a problem at your office just throw on a jacket or wrap during the work day. The jumpsuit will transition well from the office to dinner that evening!

If you like jumpsuits as much as we do take a look at our post “How To Wear A Jumpsuit“.

Workplace Outfit #5

If your office has a relaxed dress code a pair of ecru jeans would be a good choice. You can wear these jeans throughout the summer and pair them with so many different colors. We styled them with black but there are so many possibilities. Love these cute Marmi heeled sandals. The colorblock pattern is uniquely different. These sandals are perfect for dresses or jeans!

Since we are wearing open toed shoes and sandals this year you might enjoy our post “Summer Nail Polish Ideas“.

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We hope you are staying cool this week! Thank you for reading and as always please subscribe to this newsletter for more fashion, beauty and lifestyle inspo!

Bev & Val

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