Summer Work Outfits to Keep You Cool & Chic

It’s time to get our summer work outfits in check ladies!  Working 9-to-5 in the Summer is brutal, especially when you have to trek through the crazy heat wave.  You don’t have to sacrifice comfort for style when figuring out what to wear in 90 degree weather.  A summer work wardrobe simple means swapping out heavy knits for lighter fabrics that will keep you cool.

Look for fabrics like linen, cotton, chambray, rayon, silk and blends to keep you cool during the hottest months of the year.  Lighter colors will also keep you cooler.  The keyword is breathability.  Below are three outfits for the career woman to look cool and stylish at work even when the temperature hits triple digits.

 There are a few Summer work outfit staples every woman needs and I have several options in different price points for the babe on a budget or the corporate executive looking for something refined and more expensive.

I am a huge advocate wearing light colors in the summer but you can never go wrong with a light fabric little black dress to zhuzh! up your summer work outfits. Knee length is usually best for the office but some gals who work in fashion or a casual work environment can get away with shorter looks.

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THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS

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Skirts are a no brainer when looking to add to your Summer work outfits.  Choose a shape that works for your body type but I love a flattering pencil skirt, which is timeless and goes with almost every top in your closet.  Curvy gals can also rock this look by shopping brands like Eloquii, Lane Bryant, Fashion to Figure, ASOS and Simply Be.  There are so many colors to to tickle your fancy but if you can only afford one, opt for a black pencil skirt.

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THE PENCIL SKIRT

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Thanks to First Lady Michelle Obama, bearing your arm at work is such a do.  Add a few silk, cotton and cotton blend tanks to your Summer work outfits because going sleeveless keeps those sweat stains at bay.

Use a deodorant that doesn’t leave any of that white residue under your armpits and you’re good to go.  I love the Dove Dry Deodorant spay to keep me fresh and sweat-free all year round.  Your sleeveless tank will pair very well with that pencil skirt, jeans or dress pants. Find cheaper options at Old Navy, Ann Taylor, Target and Loft.  Cover up in the office when it gets cold by keeping a cardigan or a blazer at your desk.  You can go from meetings to martinis in an instant.

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THE SLEEVELESS TANK

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Next up in building your summer work outfits is the addition of a cropped pant or a tailored wide leg pant.  These are for those ladies who loathe the idea of wearing a skirt at the office or just want something to feel more comfortable and at home.  There are so many options, which come tailored, casual but updated joggers and wide leg to flatter any figure.  Pair them with that sleeveless blouse (above) or a short sleeve blouse.

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THE WORK PANT

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I’m a sucker for a flirty frock all year round but summer is the perfect time to showcase your favorite styles.  The fit-and-flare style looks amazing on almost all body types. ASOS is the destination for this style without breaking the bank.  Fit-and-flare frocks look great with flats, sandals or heels, and work from day to night with the change of some accessories.  Go for a fun print if you can swing it at work.  I know those on Wall Street and law firms need to keep it mute so stay in the solids when looking for a frock to add to your summer work outfits.

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THE FIT & FLARE DRESS

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The shoes for summer are sandals and open toed shoes but again, there are some of you ladies that can’t wear them to the office.  Polish off your summer work outfits with closed toe pumps and a d’orsay version.  Brands like M.Gemi, J.Crew, Ann Taylor, Stuart Weitzman and Gianvito Rossi have some beautiful options.

Don’t forget those flats.  I love my Tory Burch and Ferragamo Varina flats, which have lasted several years with good care.  Kate Spade, H&M and Target have more affordable options for the babe on a budget. If you can rock the open toe, look for the Stuart Weitzman Nudist sandals or NudistSong (the shorter version) for a sophisticated look. Just make sure your toes are polished.

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THE SHOES

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Finish off your look with the perfect leather tote bag that will fit everything.  My Louis Vuitton Neverfull MM is my savior because it fits my Macbook Pro along with magazines, foldable flats and a plethora of other odds and ends that end up in my bag throughout the day.  Look for a structured pair if you are in a stuffy corporate environment.

I love the Mansur Gavriel and Cuyanna large shoppers.  Saint Laurent, Ferragamo and Christian Louboutin also make gorgeous yet understated versions for the sky’s the limit type of girl.   They also work as a weekend travel bag for a beach trip during the summer.

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THE LARGE TOTE BAG

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Don’t forget to add some small dainty jewelry to your look.  And never leave home without your sunglasses.