How to Dress for Work in the Summer

With temperatures rising, figuring out how to dress for work in the summer can sometimes be a challenge. You want to wear attire that will keep you cool, but tank tops and shorts aren’t exactly office-appropriate. Need help selecting your summer work attire? No sweat! We’re sharing our top picks of what to wear to work in the summer, complete with our favorite work shoes for women.

Summer Office Wear: Dos and Don’ts

Balancing comfort with professionalism is key when it comes to summer work attire. Here are some of our dos and don’ts.

Dos for Summer Work Attire

• Choose Breathable Fabrics: Opt for lightweight and breathable materials like linen, cotton, and chiffon to stay cool and comfortable in warm weather.
• Embrace Business Casual: Stick to your office’s dress code by incorporating versatile pieces like work pants, midi dresses, and breezy worktops. Classic staples such as pencil skirts and business casual pants are perfect for creating a polished summer work outfit.
• Mix Comfort with Style: If your office leans towards business casual attire, try pairing a linen blazer with tailored trousers or adding a fresh twist with a jumpsuit. Prioritize lightweight fabrics and comfortable designs to look and feel great all day.
• Keep It Versatile: Build a work wardrobe that features timeless pieces, making it easy to mix and match. Consider creating a capsule wardrobe with essentials like work dresses, tailored pants, and sharp skirts.

Don’ts for Summer Workwear

• Avoid Overly Casual Pieces: Even if the weather calls for it, avoid items like flip-flops, shorts, and tank tops unless your office explicitly allows them on casual Fridays.
• Skip Heavy and Tight Clothes: Avoid non-breathable fabrics and overly tight or revealing styles. Pieces like distressed denim, sheer fabrics, and bold prints can quickly veer into unprofessional territory if not styled thoughtfully.
• Say No to Sloppiness: Even in a business casual outfit, maintaining a neat and polished appearance is crucial. Adding a lightweight blazer or opting for classic women’s heels or Mary Jane flats can instantly elevate your look.
• Resist Over-Accessorizing: Keep accessories minimal and professional, focusing on style that enhances rather than overwhelms your outfit.

By following these simple dos and don’ts, you can build a summer work wardrobe that not only keeps you cool but also ensures you look professional and put together every day. 

Summer Workwear Outfit Ideas

Now that we’ve covered the dos and don’ts, let’s go over some of our favorite work clothes you can add to your wardrobe.

 

Breezy Bottoms

One of the hottest (yet coolest) trends of the summer is billowy dress pants. Pair this breezy pant with the stylish, peep-toe silhouette of our Aria Bootie. Available in neutral colors, these ankle booties will go with everything in your closet.

Tailored Top

Thick, layered tops just won’t make the cut when it comes to office attire in the summer. Instead, wear a light top in a breathable fabric so you can feel airy all day long. Pair it with our Uptown Sunset Wedge Sandal, a stylish platform sandal designed with our Elevated Support Technology for all-day wear.

 

Sharp Skirt

 

There’s nothing more professional than the classic pencil skirt or when it comes to office outfits. Pair this workwear staple with our Maia Heeled Sandal. Maia will give your outfit the stylish sophistication you want for the 9-5 week. For a sleek yet versatile option, the Maisy Heeled Sandal offers effortless elegance that seamlessly transitions from office hours to after-hours.

 

Dazzling Dress

The heat has met its match with a summery dress. Don’t know which shoes to pair with dresses? Make a statement with an eye-catching pattern and pair it with our Alameda Slip-On Flat. For a chic and effortless option, the Orinda Square Toe Ballet Flat offers timeless style and all-day comfort, making it a perfect match for any warm-weather look. Cushioned with our trusted support, you’ll feel comfortable and cooled-off for an easy, breezy day at the office. If you love this sundress look but would like a shoe with a bit of a heel, you can also try a pair of espadrille wedges.

 

Put your PTO to some well-deserved use and treat yourself to a quick, summer getaway. But before you head to the airport, check out our list of what to pack for summer vacation. 

Beat the Heat in Style with Summer Workwear

Dressing for work in the summer doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right balance of breathable fabrics, polished styles, and practical footwear, you can create a summer work wardrobe that keeps you cool, comfortable, and confidently professional. Whether you’re styling breezy bottoms, sharp skirts, or dazzling dresses, incorporating Vionic into your summer work outfits will ensure both comfort and support throughout your busy workday.

Vionic’s comfortable shoes feature built-in Vio Motion Support, offering unparalleled stability and cushioning with every step. From classic women’s flats to chic wedges, you can maintain a polished look while keeping your feet happy all day long.

So go ahead—embrace the season, refresh your work wardrobe, and step into summer with cool confidence and a polished, professional look!