Women, What To Wear In Hot Weather At Work
Dressing for scorching weather is tough enough without having to think about looking professional in the office! It may sound daunting now, but with this guide, we'll show you that summer office attire can be a breeze.
Let's get you comfortable with your office summer wardrobe without compromising your professionalism.
Shoppable Recommendations Included Below!
Understanding Business Casual for Women
Business casual is a flexible dress code blending professional attire with a touch of comfort and personal style. The nuances can vary by industry and workplace, so it never hurts to check the fine print of your company's dress code.
Usually, you can depend on these pieces to fit into a typical business casual outfit...
Blouses and tops that skim the body and layer nicely
Tailored trousers or skirts that are full coverage
Dresses in professional cuts that over all the sexy bits
Closed-toe shoes primarily but sometimes you can play in open toe in today's world
Minimalistic accessories that scream daytime not nighttime
This doesn't have to bore the hell outta you.
Business Casual Summer Chic Looks
An example of a modern and fresh outfit for a business casual office.
Now that we've covered the basics, we can dive into adapting these pieces to work with you in really hot weather, rather than against you.
1. Choose Breathable Fabrics to Stay Cool in Hot Weather at Work
One of the most important elements of crafting a comfortable summer wardrobe for the office is picking the right fabrics.
It's easy to ignore a small detail like material or fabric blend but trust me, it will make the world of a difference in your comfort level throughout the workday.
Fabrics To Look For to Wear to Work in Hot Weather:
Cotton: Lightweight, breathable, and can be blended with linen to avoid wrinkles! Perfect for summer blouses and dresses.
Linen: Offers a casual yet chic summer look, ideal for trousers and light layers like blazers.
Chambray: A great alternative to denim, it’s lightweight and professional, and usually in looser fits that feel airy and light.
Rayon: Soft and flowy, great for dresses and skirts. A chemically processed natural fiber. It's the middle road of fake fabrics.
Make it stand out
On the flip side, some fabrics are your worst enemy in the hotter months.
Any garment that doesn't breathe well or traps heat close to your body is a no-no.
Fabrics to Avoid in Hot Weather for Business Casual Outfits:
Polyester
Nylon
Knits woven tightly or in a heavier weight
Acrylics
The best thing you can do for your wardrobe is read the product and fabric descriptions!
2. Opt for Light Colors and Patterns at Work
Here’s a little fashion fun fact: the darker your shirt, the hotter you’ll be.
Think of your clothes like a black hole—everything in the air, including heat, gets sucked in. So, while that chic black blouse might make you look like a boss, it’ll also turn you into a walking furnace.
Wear Light Neutrals at Work: White, beige, and pastels are excellent for a polished look.
Soft Prints For Personal Style: Solid colors, Small florals, pinstripes, or geometric designs add personality without overwhelming the outfit or attracting the sun.
Think Nautically: What people wear on boats in Nantucket are fun inspiration for workwear. Just keep it professional with the right cuts and fabrics and you'll be a boardroom babe, not an HR flag.
When the thermometer climbs, nothing beats the ease of a dress. It’s the ultimate business casual hero for hot weather—cool, comfy, and effortlessly chic.
3. Invest in Versatile Dresses For Women's Leadership Looks
It's a quick, easy outfit. This means less time sweating over your wardrobe!
Wrap Dresses: Complementary and adjustable, perfect for various body types.
Shift Dresses: Sleek and loose-fitting, ideal for hot days.
A-Line Dresses: Provide a tailored yet breezy silhouette.
Shirt Dresses: Getting dressed without the thinking.
Make sure to look for dresses with more coverage on top or subtle patterns, so your outfit reads professional, instead of "beach party."
Pro Styling Tip:
Drape a light blazer or cardigan over your shoulders to the office to fight the office air conditioning. Choose a basic that's easy to take off and hang off your arm when you go outside.
Layer light weight knit cardigans!
4. Incorporate Lightweight Blazers and Jackets For Hot Weather Business Casual
When summer hits and the heat is on, that blazer can start to feel more like a sauna. Fear not!
The trick is to opt for breathable versions that let you stay cool while still looking sharp, and find outwear that is easy to take off in different temperatures/humidity.
Sleeveless Blazers and Vests: Maintain professionalism while staying cool. [Obvi depends on your office culture!]
Unlined Blazers: These are less bulky and allow for better airflow.
Linen Jackets:
Nothing says “I’m in charge” like a well-tailored jacket.
Pair well with trousers or dresses.
5. Keep Bottoms Cool and Stay Comfortable And Sweat-Free at Work
Swap out those thick denim or wool pants for lightweight linen, cotton, or stretch blends that move with you and cascade over the body, not cling to it.
Cropped Wide-Legged Trousers:
Professional yet giving breezy, perfect for summer.
Midi Skirts: Stylish and professional, providing better coverage than shorter skirts and airy comfort.
Linen Pants: Loose-fitting and ideal for business casual they can look effortlessly chic.
Not only will your legs thank you, but you’ll look like the effortless professional you are—no awkward fidgeting or overheating required.
Jorts/Long Shorts: Airy and easy but offer the same coverage as a skirt and a professional appearance.
Styling Note:
Get your pants tailored to ensure fit in the warmer months! Anything overly snug, especially in the bottoms department, can cause chaffing and excess trapped heat while anything too baggy will look unpolished and distracting.
6. Accessorize Light To Beat The Heat in Business Casual
A sleek pair of earrings or a chic watch can inject your outfits with style without adding a single degree to your temperature.
A lightweight scarf tied to a bag or bold bracelet can add personality to your outfit. If it's just too hot for a layer, adding personality to your accessories can spice up your look.
Light Scarves: Adding silk or cotton scarves to your neck or bag can add a pop of color.
Minimal Jewelry: Opt for small earrings or thin necklaces to avoid feeling weighed down.
Functional Bags: Choose lightweight totes or bags in light colors or lighter materials like canvas or wicker.
Lightweight leather or metal belts:
Throwing on a rope or chain belt adds texture without making you feel hog-tied.
7. Select Appropriate Footwear
Comfortable footwear is non-negotiable—especially in the summer heat.
Opt for breathable materials like leather or canvas and open styles that keep your feet cool and happy, without sacrificing style.
Breathable Flats in Woven Leathers or Canvas: Loafers or ballet flats with perforations for airflow.
Open-Toe Kitten Heels: Ensure they meet office guidelines.
Sheer Heels
Espadrilles: Stylish and breathable, obviously better for casual business settings.
Woven Red Flats
8. Manage Layers for Versatility
Smart layering lets you stay comfy and flexible, adjusting to whatever temperature battle you're facing. Stay cool when you’re basking in the sun and cozy when the office blasts the AC.
Throw on a lightweight cardigan, a breathable blazer, or a chic vest that you can easily remove when you step outside for a breath of fresh air.
Cardigans: Lightweight, neutral options are easy to remove.
Scarves or Wraps: Handy for covering up in cooler offices.
Sleeveless Tops Under Layers: Remove the blazer or cardigan when heading outdoors. Opt for styles that you can carry more easily.
Boleros: Shrunken cardigans that roll up to pocket size are a commuter win.
9. Maintain a Polished Appearance
Hot weather can sometimes make you feel like you’re about to melt into a puddle, but that doesn’t mean your professional polish has to suffer. Here’s how to keep looking and feeling cool.
Anti-Wrinkle Fabrics: No one’s got time for creases— find fabrics that keep you sharp all day, without letting humidity sabotage your look.
Moisture-Wicking Undergarments: Keep sweat where it belongs (nowhere near your outfit) with moisture-wicking undergarments. They’ll keep you dry and comfortable, even if the office feels like a sauna. Think of them as your secret weapon—keeping you cool, calm, and unshakable.
Travel Steamer: A compact travel steamer is a good thing to stash in the office. A few quick passes over your blouse or dress while in the private restroom, and you’re back to looking like you just stepped out of your door.
10. Stay Confident and Comfortable in Hot Weather
At the end of the day, the most important thing you wear is confidence. When you choose clothes that fit well, reflect your personal style, and keep you comfortable, you’re not just dressing for the weather—you’re dressing for success.
FAQs: What to wear in Women’s Business Casual in Hot Weather
1. What shoes are best for business casual in the summer?
Breathable flats, open-toe heels (if permitted), and espadrilles are excellent options. Luxe, leather sandals are also good for many business casual settings. Check your dress code!
2. Can I wear sleeveless tops in a business casual setting?
Yes, but make sure the neckline isn't too low. Arms are fine to show at work and we don't need to be perpetuating this idea that women need to be nuns at work.
3. Are shorts acceptable for business casual?
In most workplaces, shorts are not appropriate. Opt for cropped trousers or midi skirts instead. You might be able to wear jorts, as recommended above, but when in doubt, don't.
4. How can I prevent sweat stains in hot weather?
Choose moisture-wicking fabrics, wear breathable undergarments like bralettes, and layer strategically with lightweight, unstructured outerwear.
5. What’s a good summer alternative to blazers?
Sleeveless vests, linen jackets, crochet knits or light cardigans made of silk and cotton are excellent alternatives.
Stay cool, stay chic, and let your style shine as much as your work ethic!
