What Not to Wear to Work This Summer
If you find yourself in an office that has either a Summer dress code, casual dress code, or “no dress code” at all, abide by these rules and you’ll be at Happy Hour in no time.
Ah Summer! The time for BBQs, Rose, and after work activities. Also, the perfect time to find yourself in front of your HR rep because you decided to wear shorts and flip flops to the office.
If you’re in an office space of any kind, no matter how strict the dress code, you should still abide by usual business decorum. The hot weather is not a reason to bring out your favorite mini skirt or off the shoulder top. Leave those items for the weekend and after hours…I’m looking at you interns!
Here’s our list of what not to wear to the office this summer and of course, what to wear instead.
Don’t Wear: Flip Flops
I shouldn’t hear you before I see you! I’m all for a comfortable shoe, especially as a commuter, but your $1 Old Navy Flip Flops have no place in the office. Instead, opt for a flat sandal with an ankle strap or even a slingback. This style is much more functional, like when you’re late for the bus (it me), and it’s a more refined look. Well as refined as a sandal can be. Go for either a chunky heel for comfort or a flat sandal if you’re always on the go.
Don’t Wear: Spaghetti Straps (even on a dress)
Do Wear: Ruffle Sleeve
This seems to be a Dress Code 101 Rule and yet, here we are. If you find yourself searching for your strapless bra from last Saturday, don’t wear it. Opt for a thick strap shell top OR a ruffle sleeve blouse if you’re looking for some interest. If you do find yourself sporting a camisole, be sure to wear a blazer or blouse over it while in the office.
Don’t Wear: Sheer/Jersey Material
Do Wear: Cotton
I get it! It’s hot. And sometimes it can get VERY hot. No one wants to arrive to work after commuting looking and feeling like a melting popsicle. While jersey and sheer fabrics add some breathability, the lack of shape doesn’t do anyone any good. Instead, invest in some quality, Grade A, classic cotton pieces for your summer wardrobe. They’re breathable and easy to maintain and have some shape that’s perfect for an office space.
Don’t Wear: Mini Skirts & Long Slit Skirts
Do Wear: Colorful Pencil Skirts
If you read this post from last year, we’ve already address the mini skirt at work debacle. It’s a no. However, there’s a new kid on the block called a slit and they’ve been showing up in offices everywhere…Hide your kids, hide your wives! A slit is perfect for a date night or girl’s night out but when it comes to the office, it’s not very useful. We talk a lot about making your wardrobe work over time so that means some pieces need to do double duty. If you find yourself with a slitted piece, make sure it doesn’t go above too high. The lower on the leg the better because when you sit down, that slit rides up, and then you’re basically in a mini skirt.
Don’t Wear: Maxi Dress
Do Wear: Tea Length Dresses
I debated this one for a while to save some folks but I couldn’t keep it in any longer. Maxi Dresses are a no for the office. Between the embellished top and the jersey material I really tried to let some people slide but I just can’t advise you to sport it in your workplace. Instead, go for a tea-length option that hits right at the calf and don’t be afraid to add a belt for some shape if it’s straight. They’re less restricting than a maxi dress and more formal. Something about the maxi dress just screams “I’m going to the beach” and while you might head there after, you’re actually heading to your laptop now.
*I want to be conscious of this one especially if maxi dresses are a wardrobe staple due to your religion. My only advice would be to explore some fabrics other than jersey that hold it’s shape a bit more.
Don’t Wear: Shorts
Do Wear: Drop Waist Dresses
The thing people love about shorts is that they’re comfortable. Period. However, for the workplace, shorts scream casual and normally they’re too short anyway. If you’re looking for comfort and flexibility, go for a drop waist dress. They’re perfect for commuters and since they’re loose, you can move from office to happy hour flawlessly.
Remember, while each office may have a different dress code, most of these are standard even if you’re one to push the limits like me. Don’t get caught slipping this summer and ill equipped for the workplace!
What trends are no-no’s for your office?
