The Dos and Don’ts of Fabulous Summer Work Wear

I’m sure you all have noticed it’s been a little… warm lately. We’re in the midst of a heat wave, and seven plus days of 90° plus weather is enough to make even the most stylish fashionista give up, especially when it comes to dressing for work. Since surrender is not a viable option (no, really), I’ve assembled a list of dos and don’ts for stylish summer work wear.

Elie TahariDo have fun with color. It’s summer! Celebrate by wearing bright colors, which also deflect sun rays better than dark colors.

Don’t show too much skin. I know it’s uncomfortably hot, but there are better ways to stay cool than shedding layers. Stay away from spaghetti strapped or strapless anything, shorts and skirts shorter than a couple of inches above the knee.

Do wear breathable fabrics. Light, breathable fabrics are one of the best ways you can dress for the weather.

Don’t forget about summer trends. Your office doesn’t have to be a no-style zone. Try pairing a sleeveless shift with a chunky belt and peep toe pumps or a floral ruffled top with a pencil skirt and cute wedges. Have fun!

Do pay attention to your summer grooming. It’s impossible to look polished if you’re ungroomed. For instance, you may like to give the shaving a rest during the winter when you aren’t wearing shorts or sleeveless tops, but that time has long passed. The skin-barring styles of summer require shaved legs and underarms. And the toe-barring styles of summer require regular pedicures. Believe me, rough heels trump cute shoes every time. Need some tips on how to whip your dogs into shape? We’ve got you covered.

Don’t rock flip flops. Cute sandals can be totally legit office wear, depending on how casual your work environment is. However, unless you work for a small tech startup, flip flops are probably too casual. Even if you do work in a very casual office, flip flops don’t make for a very polished look. Even if the rest of your outfit is fashionista feature-worthy, flip flops telegraph that you gave up when you got to your ankles. Plus, they’re loud!

Nieman MarcusDo take cues from your boss on how casual is too casual. Some offices require suits and pumps every day, no matter the weather, while others are decidedly more casual. To find out where your office falls on the continuum, take a close look at what your boss wears and follow her lead.

Don't go sans makeup. You don't need to shellac it on, but a little light, summer makeup will go a long way toward giving you a professional, finished look. More on summer makeup here.

Do spend a little time on your hair. Messy ponytails are cute for running errands or going to the beach, but work? Not so much. Even if you're wearing a ponytail, you can easily make it into a cute work hairstyle with a little effort. Add a braid, put a few curls in your ponytail or take some bobby pins and create a bun.