14 Of The Best Chic Summer Office Outfits You Need Right Now
Image:@alicia_krakowska_hadid
As the sweltering heat of summer sets in, finding the perfect balance between staying cool and looking professional can be a real challenge. Navigating the maze of summer office outfits requires a keen eye for style and practicality. After all, nobody wants to be that person who shows up in a crop top or open-toed shoes only to find the office AC cranked up to the max. With the summer months upon us, it's the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe with lightweight fabrics and chic outfits that are both stylish and appropriate for the workplace.
In this post, we'll dive into what's considered appropriate for summer workwear and what should be avoided, ensuring you make a great fashion statement without breaking any workplace etiquette rules. From business casual staples to creative field-friendly ensembles, these looks will help you navigate any work environment with confidence.
When dressing for the office during the summer season, it's important to strike a balance between comfort and professionalism. Lightweight fabrics like linen pants, a classic white tee, and tank tops in neutral colors are your best friends. Opt for sleeveless tops, midi dresses, and breathable blouses that allow you to stay cool without compromising on style. Avoid overly casual outfits like graphic tees or denim maxi skirts, unless you work in a creative field with a more relaxed dress code.
While it might be tempting to reach for that cute crop top or pair of thong sandals, these items are generally a thing of the past when it comes to office attire. Instead, stick to polished pieces like a crisp white shirt, a pencil skirt, or black pants. Open-toed shoes can be a good idea if your office environment is more relaxed, but always have a pair of flats or closed-toe shoes on hand for client meetings or formal occasions.
Don’t forget to check out our entire style in the workplace series for more tips on creating a chic outfit that meets your office’s dress code. Whether you're in New York City or Los Angeles, our guide will help you build a summer work wardrobe that keeps you looking and feeling great all season long.
1. Linen Blazer and Tailored Shorts: Your Go-To Summer Suit
J.Crew
Long Tropez short in linen
$69.50
J.Crew
Remi short in stretch linen blend
$98.00
Imagine this: you're stepping into the office, and everyone is just gushing over your chic linen blazer paired with matching tailored shorts. This combo is not only stylish but also perfect for those hot summer days when you need to keep cool.
Styling Tips:Keep it fresh and professional by pairing your linen set with a sleeveless blouse. Slip on some comfy loafers and you’re all set for a day of meetings or lunch dates. Add a fun pop of color with a bold necklace or some statement earrings.
2. Midi Skirt and Silk Blouse: Effortlessly Elegant
J.Crew
Gwyneth slip skirt
$89.50
Showpo
Sleeveless Cowl Neck Blouse
$49.95
A flowy midi skirt paired with a silky smooth blouse is like the ultimate workday duo. It’s comfy, breezy, and oh-so-elegant.
Styling Tips:Just add a pair of pointed-toe flats and keep the jewelry minimal—think delicate bracelets or small hoops. This look is perfect for a busy day at the office or even a post-work happy hour.
3. Wrap Dress: The One-Piece Wonder
Showpo
Waist Wrap Dress
$69.95
J.Crew
Sleeveless Midi Dress
$268.00
Say hello to your new best friend: the wrap dress. This piece is incredibly versatile and comes in all sorts of bold colors and prints that will make you stand out in the best way.
Styling Tips:Pair your wrap dress with some strappy heels and grab a clutch to complete the look. It’s an effortlessly chic option that works for any office environment.
4. High-Waisted Trousers and Button-Up Shirt: Classic and Chic
Aritzia
High-waisted, wide-leg Japanese crepe trousers
$148
Aritzia
Clockwork Satin Top
$88
High-waisted trousers paired with a crisp button-up shirt is a classic combo that never goes out of style. It’s perfect for creating a sleek silhouette while staying comfortable.
Styling Tips:Add some loafers and a statement necklace to really elevate the outfit. This look is ideal for those days when you need to impress without trying too hard.
5. Sleeveless Jumpsuit: One and Done
Showpo
Collared Tie Waist Jumpsuit In Stone
$79.95
Showpo
High Neck Tie Waist Jumpsuit
$69.95
A sleeveless jumpsuit in a breathable fabric is your ticket to looking polished with minimal effort. It’s the ultimate one-piece wonder for the office.
Styling Tips:Throw on a belt to cinch your waist and slip into some heeled sandals. You’re ready to take on the day with style and ease.
6.Pencil Skirt and Short-Sleeve Blouse: Timeless and Polished
Aritzia
Utility Midi Skirt
$98
Showpo
White Collared Shirt
$49.95
You can never go wrong with a classic pencil skirt paired with a short-sleeve blouse. This combination is timeless and always looks polished.
Styling Tips:Complete the look with a pair of pumps and a structured handbag. It’s perfect for client meetings or any formal office setting.
7. Lightweight Cardigan and Shift Dress: Effortless Elegance
Aritzia
V-neck merino wool cardigan
$110
Aritzia
Button-up crepe shirt dress
$168
A lightweight cardigan layered over a shift dress is the perfect way to stay comfortable in the office AC while looking effortlessly chic. The shift dress provides a simple and clean silhouette, while the cardigan adds a touch of warmth without being too heavy.
Styling Tips:Pair this outfit with ballet flats for a comfortable yet polished look. A delicate bracelet can add a subtle touch of elegance. This combination is perfect for transitioning from a day at the office to an evening out.
8. Cropped Trousers and Peplum Top: Modern and Stylish
Aritzia
Softly structured mid-rise cargo pants
$148
Showpo
Puff Sleeve Top
$49.95
Cropped trousers with a stylish peplum top create a modern and flattering silhouette. The peplum top adds a fashionable twist, making it a great choice for a stylish office outfit.
Styling Tips:Add a pair of loafers for a comfortable and chic look. A statement ring can bring some personality to the outfit. This look is ideal for a busy day filled with meetings and work tasks.
9. Floral Print Dress: Fresh and Fun
Aritzia
Fit-and-flare tiered dress
$269
A knee-length floral print dress is a fantastic way to bring some color and pattern into your summer work wardrobe. It’s fresh, fun, and perfect for adding a bit of vibrancy to your office style.
Styling Tips:Pair your floral dress with wedge sandals for a touch of summer elegance. A light scarf can add some sophistication and be useful for those chilly office environments. This outfit is perfect for bringing a bit of summer into the workplace.
10. Wide-Leg Pants and Fitted Top: Sleek and Comfortable
Aritzia
Crepe wide-leg relaxed pleated
$148
Meshki
Sleeveless Suiting Top - Ivory
$79
Wide-leg pants paired with a fitted top create a sleek and balanced look. The wide-leg pants are comfortable and stylish, making them a great choice for the office.
Styling Tips:Add heeled mules to give yourself some height and pair with layered necklaces to add a bit of sparkle. This outfit is perfect for making a fashion statement while staying comfortable during the summer months.
11. Belted Shirt Dress: Classic and Versatile
Tuckernuck
Indigo Stripe Callahan Shirt Dress
$128
Tuckernuck
Pink and Red Floral Mimi Midi Dress
$168
A stylish belted shirt dress is a versatile piece that can easily be dressed up or down. The belt cinches the waist, creating a flattering silhouette.
Styling Tips:Pair with ankle boots for a bit of edge and a tote bag for all your essentials. This outfit is great for a day filled with meetings and errands.
12. Knee-Length Shorts and Blouse: Cool and Professional
Tuckernuck
Navy Long Luisa Shorts
$275
Knee-length tailored shorts with a light blouse offer a cool and professional look perfect for summer. This outfit strikes the perfect balance between casual and professional.
Styling Tips:Add flat sandals for comfort and a crossbody bag for convenience. This look is ideal for casual office environments or casual Fridays.
13. A-Line Skirt and Sleeveless Top: Feminine and Polished
Tuckernuck
Olive and Pressed Powder Floral Louise Skirt
$228
Amazon
Bodysuit Halter Top
$24.99
An A-line skirt paired with a sleeveless top is a feminine and polished look that’s perfect for the office. The A-line skirt is flattering for all body types, and the sleeveless top keeps you cool.
Styling Tips:Pair with loafers for a comfortable yet stylish look, and add a blazer for a touch of formality. This outfit is perfect for presentations or important meetings.
14.Lightweight Suit: Professional and Breezy
Tuckernuck
Navy Diana Blazer
$298
Tuckernuck
Navy Erin Pants
$178
A lightweight suit in a breathable fabric is your go-to for looking polished without feeling overheated. Perfect for those days when you need to dress up but still want to stay cool.
Styling Tips:Pair your lightweight suit with pumps and keep the jewelry minimal to maintain a clean, professional look. This outfit is ideal for important meetings or days when you need to make a strong impression.
