How to Dress Smart Casual for Work in the Heat: Tips for Everyone to Stay Cool and Look Professional
One of the good things about going into an office is all that sweet, sweet air conditioning (that isn't taxing YOUR electric bill.)
One of the things that is not so great is considering a work dress code. (And possibly freezing your ass off...)
Whether it's business casual, smart casual, or business formal we've styled our clients in it and can help. Today we're focusing on Smart Casual. So you can look polished, feel comfortable, and wear more than just t-shirts.
You may start sweating just thinking about walking out the front door when it's hot out, but it's about deliberate choices and balance.
And, let's be honest: just sucking it up.
My Top 3 Tips For Everyone To Stay Stylish And Cool During Hot Ass Weather:
It doesn't matter your personal style, gender, or size, the biggest things that matter when dressing for hot weather are your fabrics, fit, and sleeve length.
You can wear most of the same styles you love if you modify the following things:
1. Change up the fabrics
Opt for Breathable Fabrics. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like:
Cotton
Linen
Silk
Viscose/Rayon
Tropical wool
Seersucker
These materials allow air to circulate and wick away moisture, keeping you cool throughout the day. Avoid synthetic fabrics that can trap heat and cause discomfort. Aim for a garment to be made of at least 50% natural fibers.
Don't forget -- choosing your shoes is as important as choosing your clothes. And you DON'T want sweaty feet!
The key here is finding breathable shoes that help you strike a balance between comfort and professionalism.
Look for shoes made from natural materials like leather or canvas, which allow air to circulate and wick away moisture.
Mesh panels or perforated designs are also excellent features, as they enhance ventilation without compromising on style.
2. Relax the Fit
Opting for looser silhouettes allows air to circulate more freely around your body, which can help prevent overheating.
Think wide-leg trousers, flowy skirts, and blouses with more generous cuts for the ladies. And guys, this is the time to stay away from slim fits! Give yourself some room around the shoulders, waist, and thighs.
Remember, relaxed doesn’t mean sloppy—choosing high-quality fabrics and tailoring ensures your outfit remains polished and office-appropriate.
3. Shorten Sleeve Lengths
Another key tip is to shorten your sleeve lengths. Sleeveless blouses, short-sleeved shirts, or even rolling up the sleeves of your favorite button-down can make a significant difference in your comfort level.
These styles reduce the amount of fabric on your skin, allowing for better air circulation and helping to avoid those dreaded sweat marks. Plus, shorter sleeves can still look sharp, especially when balanced with more structured bottoms or accessories.
For the Ladies
Specific tips to help you look stylish and professional in the heat
Light Colors are Your Friend Light-colored clothing reflects sunlight rather than absorbing it, which helps keep you cooler. Whites, pastels, and light neutrals are excellent choices for summer office wear.
Embrace Sleeveless and Short-Sleeved Clothing Be strategic with sleeveless blouses and short-sleeved dresses or tops. They provide ventilation and reduce the risk of unsightly sweat stains. Obviously, layers are key when you're navigating the difference between the heat outside and the frosty AC inside.
Keeping something at the office if you don't already, is a smart move.
Skirts and Dresses A-line skirts or long dresses made from light, flowy materials are perfect for hot weather. They allow for better air circulation compared to tight-fitting pants. Just ensure that the length and style remain in line with your office environment. Midi dresses in breathable fabrics can be an easy, stylish, and comfortable choice.
Footwear Matters Soft unlined suede, perforated leather, canvas, and open-toe sandals (if dress code appropriate) are helpful to ward off sweaty feet.
Minimalist Accessories Keep accessories to a minimum or completely opt out. Heavy jewelry can be uncomfortable and add to the heat (and stick to sweaty skin). A pair of simple earrings or a delicate necklace can add a touch without irritating you.
Pamper Your Bod It happens to all of us -- the sweating and chafing that are unavoidable in the heat. UGH.
Luckily, there are products out there to help.
Megababe makes Thigh Rescue for thigh chafe and Bust Dust for boob sweats and other situations. You're welcome.
For the Gents
Smart Casual ideas for men when it's 100 degrees out
Choose Lightweight Fabrics and Layers Invest in lightweight jacket or pants made from breathable materials like:
linen
summer wools
seersucker
These fabrics are perfect for looking sharp while staying cool.
Lighten Up Your Shirt Light-colored shirts in materials like cotton or linen are excellent for summer. They’re breathable and reflect heat, keeping you cooler. Consider a classic white or light lavender for a crisp, professional look.
Ditch T-shirts for Relaxed Polos Open collars not only help in ventilation but also give a relaxed yet refined look. While many smart casual offices allow t-shirts, it can get a little tired and boring, blending you into the crowd. Embrace your inner Italian.
Consider Camp Collared Shirts Short-sleeved camps collar shirts can be a lifesaver in hot weather. To keep the Smart in Smart Casual, wear them pressed. Pair them with tailored trousers for a balanced look.
Breathable Footwear Opt for loafers or other breathable shoes made from materials like canvas or perforated leather. Avoid thick, heavy socks and choose lightweight, moisture-wicking ones instead (or none at all). No-show socks or thin weaves can be a better option for a more breathable feel.
Wear Layers but Keep Them Light If you need to wear a blazer or jacket, opt for unlined or half-lined options. Pairing a printed button-up or camp collar shirt with a crips tee adds interest to an otherwise boring outfit. Both a blazer and a layered shirt provide a structured look without the extra heat. A neutral color can easily complement various outfits and pairs over a tee easily.
Embrace Helpful Products Sometimes no matter what you do, the summer stink is unavoidable. Carry some Dude Wipes so you can freshen up quickly when you need to.
How to Stay Warm in the Office When The AC is Crazy
Yeah, it's counterintuitive to talk about staying warm when we're talking about oppressive heat, but the irony is that a lot of the time, the hotter it is outside, the colder it is inside.
And while that's a relief, it can also be a bit much and a challenge of its own.
It just takes a little planning to stay comfortable in the blasting AC.
Layers are particularly key here -- keep a cardigan or pashmina in your desk drawer. If your AC has adjustable vents, position them away from you so you aren't directly in the path of the cold air. And just because you're not sweating anymore, don't stop hydrating! That cold air can also be very drying, so keep a bottle of moisturizer or lotion in your drawer, too.
Dressing for work in hot weather doesn't have to be a daunting task. Need help getting your closet up to the task?
