35 Summer Outfits You Can Actually Wear to Work (2024)

When the temperatures outside start rising, figuring out a stylish work-appropriate outfit can be a challenge. You want to be comfortable during a sweltering commute, while also not freezing at your desk when the high power office AC is blaring. Finding looks that are both a breeze to put together and wear can be a tall order. Thankfully there's no shortage of answers from the street style set. Their fresh takes on workwear staples, complete with a few twists, are inspiring us to shake up our warm-weather wardrobes.

Ahead, get inspired by the following 35 stylish and office-appropriate outfit ideas, that will help you navigate all the tricky rules of summer workwear with ease. You'll find everything from polished midi dresses and pleated skirts, to comfortable ballet flats that you can stand in all day.

Try a Patterned Sheath

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A sheath dress in a vibrant, modern print is a no-brainer. Pair with elegant accessories, like a Mary Jane heel and button earring, for an elevated spin that's still comfortable to wear all day.

The Silky Sheath

La DoubleJ San Carlo Dress

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The Silky Sheath

La DoubleJ San Carlo Dress

Now 27% Off

La DoubleJ's billowy dress is a sleeveless silhouette that you can wear weekly. Cinch the sash to show off the waistline or wear loose with a blazer for a relaxed look.

Size Range: XS-XL

Colorways: Floral

Slip Into Something Satiny

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A silky midi skirt is easily office-friendly with the help of some mainstay basics, like a white button down shirt, clean sweater and pointy kitten heels.

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The Satin Slip Skirt

Vince Satin Midi-Skirt

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The Satin Slip Skirt

Vince Satin Midi-Skirt

One of Vince's core styles, the satin midi skirt can be worn for day with the right pairing. Style with muted neutrals to keep things monochrome.

Size Range: XS-XL

Colorways: Champagne and Black

Strap Into Sandals with Lift

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A modern sandal shape like a strappy square-toed heel makes any work outfit a little more dressed up.

The Strappy Sandal

Tony Bianco Avi Sandal

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The Strappy Sandal

Tony Bianco Avi Sandal

This forgiving heel height ensures you will be comfortable on a long day at the office. It'll also ideal for showing off a good pedicure.

Size Range: 5-10 US

Colorways: Black and Skin Nappa

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Suit Up with Something Oversized

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Wearing white used to come with a set of rules but they've been outdated for years. You can't go wrong with a smart suit in the summertime. Opt for a slouchy fit for something that feels more casual and less business.

The White Suit

Gap Linen-Cotton Blazer

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The White Suit

Gap Linen-Cotton Blazer

Oversized and roomy, this blazer shows the relaxed way to do workwear in the heat. Pair with the matching trouser pant for a chic approach to summer whites.

Size Range: XXS-XXL regular, S-XXL tall and XS-L petite

Colorways: Off White, Navy Blue and Rose Crystal Pink

Play with Print

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Retro inspired prints in breezy silhouettes are ideal on a scorching hot summer's day. If you're bold enough, try wearing a dress over billowy pants. For a look that's less Y2K, opt for bold prints in warmer tones.

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The Printed Dress

Anna Mason Hettie Mini Dress

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The Printed Dress

Anna Mason Hettie Mini Dress

Now 30% Off

A '70s-style print lends a retro feeling to this flowy mini dress. Pair with a chic flat or sandal and top handle handbag for an easy, dressed up look.

Size Range: 6-14 UK

Colorways: Brown

Give Denim on Denim a Go

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Want to double up on denim without wearing a Canadian tuxedo? Opt for a boiler suit instead. The one-step look feels fancier than your go-to pair of faded Levis but the workwear inspired staple is still casual enough for everyday.

The Utilitarian Jumpsuit

Rivet Utility Denim Jumpsuit

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The Utilitarian Jumpsuit

Rivet Utility Denim Jumpsuit

Now 40% Off

This jumpsuit works for the office thanks to its long sleeve, pant length, and simple wash without distressing. Try a belt for a simple accessory add-on with a flat shoe.

Size Range: XS-XL

Colorways: Light Denim

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Keep in Khaki

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Khaki basics are now hot, thanks to Miu Miu. Aside from being of the moment, they're also fail-proof in warm weather. A crisp button down and pleated skirt are a workwear match made in heaven.

The Pleated Skirt

Wilfred Windmill Pleated Skirt

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The Pleated Skirt

Wilfred Windmill Pleated Skirt

Now 50% Off

This mid-rise pleated skirt is a summer workwear must. Hitting just above the knee, pair this with slingback flats or heels for a Prada runway inspired touch.

Size Range: 00-12 US

Colorways: Gold Camel, Saville, Light Birch and Black

Upgrade Your Basics

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Who says tank tops aren't built for work? The classic casual staple becomes office suitable when paired with smart, tailored trousers, and an of-the-moment pump. Add a simple structured bag to further elevate the look.

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The White Tank

AGOLDE Bailey Ribbed Tank Top

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The White Tank

AGOLDE Bailey Ribbed Tank Top

What's more ideal for summer than a white tank? AGOLDE's ribbed version is made from breathable cotton and has a high-neck cut that provides the ideal amount of coverage.

Size Range: XS-XL

Colorways: White

Float o n in Florals

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The classic fashion joke is this: florals for spring are not necessarily groundbreaking. But they do solve most hot weather dressing dilemmas. They're easy to throw on when you're in a rush, and always look good.

The Floral Midi

Rixo Ayla Floral Midi Dress

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The Floral Midi

Rixo Ayla Floral Midi Dress

Airy floral dresses are a Rixo speciality. When you don't feel like styling out a full look, lean on this one-and-done midi for a pulled together approach.

Size Range: XXS-XXL

Colorways: Floral

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Go for Comfortable Flats

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The ballerina flat was everywhere in the 2010s and now it's back in a big way. Brands like Miu Miu and Tory Burch revitalizing the classic, with styles made of satin or covered in studs, that look nothing like the ballet flats you remember. Try an ivory shade for summer, with everything from pencil skirts to jersey dresses.

The Ballet Flat

Everlane The Italian Leather Day Ballet Flat

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The Ballet Flat

Everlane The Italian Leather Day Ballet Flat

Buttery soft leather and a cushioned insole make these a comfortable option for commuting, meetings and more. These ballet flats are also made with recycled leather, for a sustainable approach.

Size Range: 5-11

Colorways: Canvas, Sugar Almond, Pale Pink, Moss, Black and Seafoam Green

35 Summer Outfits You Can Actually Wear to Work (2024)

FAQs

How to wear a summer dress to work? ›

HOW TO SMARTEN UP SUMMER DRESSES FOR WORK
  1. TIP 1: SLIP ON A JACKET. Nothing says 'professional' quite like a tailored jacket. ...
  2. TIP 2: ADD A SMART BELT. It may seem simple, but adding a belt can instantly smarten up a dress. ...
  3. TIP 3: PAIR MATCHING KNITWEAR. ...
  4. TIP 4: ELEVATE WITH HEELS.

What to wear in your 30s in summer? ›

I'm a Fashion Editor in My 30s, and I Wear These 7 Summer Outfits on Repeat
  • Button-Down Shirt + Tank + Denim Shorts. ...
  • Long White Dress + Leather Slides + Tan Bag. ...
  • Wide Leg Trousers + Tank Top + Flats or Heels. ...
  • Bright Midi Dress + Sandals + Basket Bag. ...
  • Bright Blazer + Jeans + Chunky Sandals.
May 5, 2023

How to dress professionally in hot weather? ›

Professional Clothes for Warmer Weather
  1. Look at Clothing Fabrics. Professional clothes, such as business suits, are often made with heavy fabrics, which is great in the colder months, but means they are unfortunately unsuited for warm weather. ...
  2. Consider Neutrals. ...
  3. Wear Looser Fits. ...
  4. Dress Lighter.

How to dress stylish at 35? ›

Classic pieces are going to be your best friend. Start adding button down shirts, shirt dresses, blazers, chic flats or loafers or classic white sneakers to your closet. It's time to phase out of distressed pieces and short hemlines. Just above the knee hemlines should be the shortest you go.

What are 3 proper ways to dress at work? ›

20 Tips to Dress Correctly at Work
  1. Dress modest. ...
  2. Wear the right shoes. ...
  3. Wear well-fitted clothes. ...
  4. Wear glasses that fit. ...
  5. Wear the right colours. ...
  6. Don't get too flashy. ...
  7. Don't wear a very b perfume. ...
  8. Pay attention to the bag you carry.

Can a summer dress be business casual? ›

Business casual summer dresses should: – Lean conservative. Just because it's 90 degrees doesn't mean your corporate office will let you wear a spaghetti strap or mini dress. Aim for dresses that are knee-length or longer and always have some coverage on the tops of your shoulders.

How should a 32 year old woman dress? ›

Styling tips if you're in your 30s
  1. Focus on comfort. “Wear what makes you feel comfortable and happy in your own skin! ...
  2. Have fun! “Who says you can't experiment with your style in your 30s?” celebrity wardrobe stylist Audrey Brianne said. ...
  3. Invest in a few key pieces. ...
  4. Seek out inspiration.
Feb 10, 2023

How to dress like the 30s female? ›

1930s Fashion Shopping List
  1. Silk or chiffon blouse.
  2. Calf length skirt with inverted front pleat or slightly flared at bottom.
  3. Bias cut tea dress – puff sleeves.
  4. Wide leg pants for the sporty look.
  5. Bias cut floor length gown in silk satin or rayon.
  6. A silk or rayon slip.

How to look 20 in your 30s? ›

How to Look Younger at 30
  1. Develop a thorough skin care routine.
  2. Update your makeup routine.
  3. Start using retinoid creams.
  4. Wear sunscreen daily.
  5. Drinks lots of water.
  6. Wear flattering clothing.
  7. Keep your hair style and color simple.
  8. Use hair treatments regularly.

How can I look more attractive at 35? ›

8 Ways to Maintain a Youthful Appearance
  1. Stay out of the sun. While it's true that the sun isn't the only factor in the overall appearance of your skin, it does play a huge role. ...
  2. Drink plenty of water. ...
  3. Get some ZZZs. ...
  4. Rub it in. ...
  5. Eat a diet rich in plants. ...
  6. Get moving. ...
  7. Establish a good routine. ...
  8. Limit alcohol and caffeine.

What to stop wearing after 30? ›

This isn't the time to keep “maybe” pieces. Or things you never wear but keep around “just in case” the right occasion comes along. Get rid of the old college tees you never wear, fast-fashion going-out clothes, and anything that doesn't fit.

How to wear mom jeans in your 30s? ›

You can go casual with a graphic tee or dress them up with a collared shirt. Opting for a cropped pair of mom jeans versus regular length will also emphasize your footwear; meaning, whether it's statement sneakers or sky-high stilettos, make it count.

What kind of dresses are appropriate for work? ›

Avoid dresses and skirts that are too tight or too short. Look for styles that hit right at or just above the knee. When wearing a sleeveless dress, add a jacket or blazer to ensure you look pulled together and professional. "You can also play with polished midi skirts, like a pleated A-line skirt.

How do you make a summer dress work for fall? ›

Tights and boots

If your summer dress stops over the knee, a pair of cable knit tights and leather boots are guaranteed to bestow an autumnal look and feel to that summer dress.

How do you wear a maxi dress to work? ›

Business Casual Maxi Dresses
  1. Wear a normal bra, and keep it covered. ...
  2. Keep your shoes professional. ...
  3. Cover your arms and shoulders with a fitted shape. ...
  4. Dress it up with accessories. ...
  5. Keep your hair neat and tidy, such as in an office updo.
Oct 31, 2018

What do you wear to a dress down day at work? ›

When your work has a standard attire of neckties, sports coats, and suits, dress-down days don't mean you can wear jeans and a custom logo T-shirt. Instead, you should scale down to business casual. This means that you can trade-in your blazer and necktie and just wear a button-down shirt and slacks.

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