When it comes to summer workwear, the onus is on textiles. Workwear isn’t always associated with the most breathable of fabrics. Typically, power dressing alludes to heavily tailored suits, single-breasted blazers and pinstripes. Growing up, I’d watch films like Baby Boom in awe. The female protagonists with their weighty padded shoulders and bulging briefcases symbolised the high-powered working woman. Although the attire was of that time, it’s what I considered typical workwear. School-uniform dressing didn’t help either. We’re conditioned into thinking that clothing should look and feel a certain way to be deemed smart.
Although those items have their place, there’s an opportunity to make your workwear as fruitful as your off-duty looks. There’s no rule of thumb when it comes to workwear, which is ironic given the aforementioned tighter perimeters we ascribed to. Of course, in most cases, formality is expected, but you can adhere to boundaries whilst finding your footing and the pieces you feel most align with your style. You can also incorporate a few summer micro trends and still have fun with dressing for the office! During this season, the weather allows for looser-fitting textures and subtle flashes of skin—a turned-up sleeve here, an ankle-skimming length there, a button undone when the office air-con doesn’t quite suffice.
Summer is a good time for a wardrobe assessment. The past few years have seen fashion releases reflect the state of the world and the transition from loungewear to back-the-office wear. Now, tailoring in natural fibres such as linen and lyocell is trickling into the market. In addition to being eco-friendlier, those materials allow for some movement. You’ve likely seen the trend of lightweight waistcoats has spilt over into this year, which are perfect for light layering.
You mightn’t think workwear is the most exhilarating category of outfits, but with the right summer workwear looks, there's much fun to be had. It’s an opportunity to highlight accessories and play with lengths, texture and jewellery. If you’re worried about materials, don’t fret. I always make sure my edits have a high percentage of natural fibres so you won’t be left with the cloying feeling of work trousers sticking to your body on humid days in the office. If you’re feeling uninspired by your summer workwear wardrobe, or just want to have a peek at some outfit inspiration, keep on scrolling.
Shop the Best Summer Workwear Looks According to a Fashion Editor
1. Heat-Proof Tailoring
Style Notes: Unless this is the first story you've ever read on Who What Wear (if so, welcome!), then you'll know how much we love tailoring. Embrace light linen fabrics and enjoy the breeze.
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The shape of this blazer reflects the very trendy waisted cardigan trend from this winter and spring.
With 20% linen in its composition, this pair of trousers is fit for the office but remain cool.
The perfect finishing touch.
2. Slip Skirt and a Shirt
Style Notes: A silky skirt and a shirt is perhaps one of my favourite (and the most effortless) work looks, and for days when a blazer is too warm, I love the look of a longer, semi-sheer shirt (with a tank vest underneath if needed). You can easily wear this from the office to date night.
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This skirt also comes in several other chic hues.
This is such a gorgeous shirt.
A sophisticated flat for work and play.
3. A Linen Two-Piece
Style Notes: Swap your wool suit for a linen one, or for a more relaxed look, opt for a co-ord. Either way, doubling up on the linen will keep you cool when the weather isn't.
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This cut is perfection and so are the lace edges.
Linen is an airy material, but the cut of these trousers make them fit for an office (rather than going on holiday).
All our editors are lusting over this one. Woven bags are perfect for summer but this one is sleek.
4. Black Midi Dress and Sandals
Style Notes: When all else fails, you can't go wrong with a simple black midi dress. If you can wear sandals to work, a chunky, fisherman-style is a great choice. But if not, ballet flats and loafers also work with this look.
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An easy dress with a timelessness that'll keep it in your closet for years to come.
These pretty sandals are a good option for work as they a thicker and sturdier than ankle-tie styles.
Swap out your suede or dark leather work bag for something lighter and more summery.
5. Knit Dress and Trench
Style Notes: As many Brits know, not every summer day is balmy. A lightweight knit dress is a great choice, as it feels breezy but keeps you protected from blasts of office air conditioning. If it's cooler in the mornings or rain is expected, add a trench over top for truly functional summer attire, just like Karina has done here.
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Lightweight and so easy to layer with a coat or blazer.
Sézane does trench coats so perfectly, hitting the sweet spot between high street and luxury.
A woven raffia texture works well for hotter months.
6. Black Tailored T-Shirt and Trousers
Style Notes: The right T-shirt can take you far with office wear, especially one that's clean-cut and well-tailored. A cooler top like this is a staple, especially when the warm weather arrives. Tuck it into crisp trousers and add a belt for a sophisticated outfit like Dev's that won't leave you boiling. Add a cool pair of flats, mules or sandals to complete the look.
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There is no T-shirt I've gotten more use out of than this one. It's clean, sleek and so easy to style in a multitude of ways.
These can easily look elevated with the right top and accessories. But you'll stay comfy with a stretchy waistband.
A great black belt is a capsule wardrobe staple all year round.
7. White Blazer and Light-Wash Denim
Style Notes: Swap out your heavy woolen blazer for a bright white one. Then do the same with your jeans—trade in your favourite pair of black denim with a light-wash pair. As Yamila has proven here, the same outfit can look much more ready for summer just by changing the colours and materials.
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Another choice in linen, making it a summer wardrobe staple.
The perfect summer denim that'll take you into fall and winter too with the right styling.
A striped blouse is one of the most versatile pieces you can own for workwear.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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