35 Summer Outfits You Can Actually Wear to Work (2025)

35 Summer Outfits You Can Actually Wear to Work (1)

Stylish and office appropriate.

By Lauren Caruso and Kristina Rutkowski

When the temperatures outside start rising, figuring out a stylish work-appropriate outfit can be a challenge. You want to be comfortable during a sweltering commute, while also not freezing at your desk when the high power office AC is blaring. Finding looks that are both a breeze to put together and wear can be a tall order. Thankfully there's no shortage of answers from the street style set. Their fresh takes on workwear staples, complete with a few twists, are inspiring us to shake up our warm-weather wardrobes.

Ahead, get inspired by the following 35 stylish and office-appropriate outfit ideas, that will help you navigate all the tricky rules of summer workwear with ease. You'll find everything from polished midi dresses and pleated skirts, to comfortable ballet flats that you can stand in all day.

Try a Patterned Sheath

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A sheath dress in a vibrant, modern print is a no-brainer. Pair with elegant accessories, like a Mary Jane heel and button earring, for an elevated spin that's still comfortable to wear all day.

The Silky Sheath

La DoubleJ San Carlo Dress

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The Silky Sheath

La DoubleJ San Carlo Dress

La DoubleJ's billowy dress is a sleeveless silhouette that you can wear weekly. Cinch the sash to show off the waistline or wear loose with a blazer for a relaxed look.

Size Range: XS-XL

Colorways: Floral

Slip Into Something Satiny

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A silky midi skirt is easily office-friendly with the help of some mainstay basics, like a white button down shirt, clean sweater and pointy kitten heels.

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The Satin Slip Skirt

Vince Satin Midi-Skirt

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The Satin Slip Skirt

Vince Satin Midi-Skirt

One of Vince's core styles, the satin midi skirt can be worn for day with the right pairing. Style with muted neutrals to keep things monochrome.

Size Range: XS-XL

Colorways: Champagne and Black

The Strappy Sandal

Tony Bianco Avi Sandal

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The Strappy Sandal

Tony Bianco Avi Sandal

This forgiving heel height ensures you will be comfortable on a long day at the office. It'll also ideal for showing off a good pedicure.

Size Range: 5-10 US

Colorways: Black and Skin Nappa

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Suit Up with Something Oversized

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Wearing white used to come with a set of rules but they've been outdated for years. You can't go wrong with a smart suit in the summertime. Opt for a slouchy fit for something that feels more casual and less business.

The White Suit

Gap Linen-Cotton Blazer

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The White Suit

Gap Linen-Cotton Blazer

Oversized and roomy, this blazer shows the relaxed way to do workwear in the heat. Pair with the matching trouser pant for a chic approach to summer whites.

Size Range: XXS-XXL regular, S-XXL tall and XS-L petite

Colorways: Off White, Navy Blue and Rose Crystal Pink

Play with Print

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Retro inspired prints in breezy silhouettes are ideal on a scorching hot summer's day. If you're bold enough, try wearing a dress over billowy pants. For a look that's less Y2K, opt for bold prints in warmer tones.

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The Printed Dress

Anna Mason Hettie Mini Dress

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The Printed Dress

Anna Mason Hettie Mini Dress

Now 30% Off

A '70s-style print lends a retro feeling to this flowy mini dress. Pair with a chic flat or sandal and top handle handbag for an easy, dressed up look.

Size Range: 6-14 UK

Colorways: Brown

Give Denim on Denim a Go

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Want to double up on denim without wearing a Canadian tuxedo? Opt for a boiler suit instead. The one-step look feels fancier than your go-to pair of faded Levis but the workwear inspired staple is still casual enough for everyday.

The Utilitarian Jumpsuit

Rivet Utility Denim Jumpsuit

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The Utilitarian Jumpsuit

Rivet Utility Denim Jumpsuit

Now 40% Off

This jumpsuit works for the office thanks to its long sleeve, pant length, and simple wash without distressing. Try a belt for a simple accessory add-on with a flat shoe.

Size Range: XS-XL

Colorways: Light Denim

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Keep in Khaki

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Khaki basics are now hot, thanks to Miu Miu. Aside from being of the moment, they're also fail-proof in warm weather. A crisp button down and pleated skirt are a workwear match made in heaven.

The Pleated Skirt

Wilfred Windmill Pleated Skirt

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The Pleated Skirt

Wilfred Windmill Pleated Skirt

Now 50% Off

This mid-rise pleated skirt is a summer workwear must. Hitting just above the knee, pair this with slingback flats or heels for a Prada runway inspired touch.

Size Range: 00-12 US

Colorways: Gold Camel, Saville, Light Birch and Black

Upgrade Your Basics

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Who says tank tops aren't built for work? The classic casual staple becomes office suitable when paired with smart, tailored trousers, and an of-the-moment pump. Add a simple structured bag to further elevate the look.

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The White Tank

AGOLDE Bailey Ribbed Tank Top

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The White Tank

AGOLDE Bailey Ribbed Tank Top

What's more ideal for summer than a white tank? AGOLDE's ribbed version is made from breathable cotton and has a high-neck cut that provides the ideal amount of coverage.

Size Range: XS-XL

Colorways: White

Float o n in Florals

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The classic fashion joke is this: florals for spring are not necessarily groundbreaking. But they do solve most hot weather dressing dilemmas. They're easy to throw on when you're in a rush, and always look good.

The Floral Midi

Rixo Ayla Floral Midi Dress

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The Floral Midi

Rixo Ayla Floral Midi Dress

Airy floral dresses are a Rixo speciality. When you don't feel like styling out a full look, lean on this one-and-done midi for a pulled together approach.

Size Range: XXS-XXL

Colorways: Floral

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Go for Comfortable Flats

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The ballerina flat was everywhere in the 2010s and now it's back in a big way. Brands like Miu Miu and Tory Burch revitalizing the classic, with styles made of satin or covered in studs, that look nothing like the ballet flats you remember. Try an ivory shade for summer, with everything from pencil skirts to jersey dresses.

The Ballet Flat

Everlane The Italian Leather Day Ballet Flat

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The Ballet Flat

Everlane The Italian Leather Day Ballet Flat

Buttery soft leather and a cushioned insole make these a comfortable option for commuting, meetings and more. These ballet flats are also made with recycled leather, for a sustainable approach.

Size Range: 5-11

Colorways: Canvas, Sugar Almond, Pale Pink, Moss, Black and Seafoam Green

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Lauren Caruso

Lauren Caruso is a freelance writer, consultant, and digital media strategist that splits her time between NYC and Los Angeles. She has more than ten years of experience within the publishing industry with a focus on fashion, beauty, and lifestyle, with tenures at Refinery29, Allure, and The Zoe Report.

35 Summer Outfits You Can Actually Wear to Work (2025)

FAQs

Can I wear a summer dress to work? ›

If your workplace allows you to wear what you like, you can wear your sundress on its own with your favourite pair of shoes. Alternatively, you can add a touch of formality to your look by wearing a smart jacket over your dress or layering a long-sleeve or t-shirt top.

What to wear for work in the summer? ›

The solution? Keep it smart up top in a cool white shirt and comfy below in loose linen trousers. For on-screen moments, a colour pop blazer exudes confidence." Style tip: "If it's too warm for a jacket, statement earrings are a quick and easy way to elevate your look – even if you're wearing a simple white t-shirt."

What to wear at work when its hot? ›

Loose-Fitting Clothing: Choose loose-fitting garments that allow air to flow freely around your body. Avoid tight, constricting clothes that can trap heat and make you feel uncomfortable. Flowy dresses, loose tops, and wide-leg pants are great options for maintaining airflow.

How do you dress professionally in hot weather? ›

Tip #1: Wear Breathable Fabrics

It may sound obvious, but fabric is one of the most important factors when you're trying to stay cool. Beat the heat by looking for pieces made from natural fabrics like cotton poplin and silk, as well as breathable knits like pima cotton and Interweave.

Does a sundress count as business casual? ›

Skirts and Dresses

Knee-length or longer lengths are professional choices for the office. No sundresses or skintight dresses. You can experiment with colors and accessories while maintaining a professional look. Adding a blazer, cardigan, or belt can give your outfit a business casual look.

What kind of dresses are appropriate for work? ›

Tailored dresses and skirts are great alternatives to suits. Here are some tips to consider when shopping for these pieces: Fitted silhouettes and three-quarter sleeves are your best bet for a conservative business look. Avoid dresses and skirts that are too tight or too short.

What should I wear to work in the sun all day? ›

When working in the sun, work clothing needs to be made of lightweight, closely woven material with a UPF 50+ rating. You should wear long pants and work shirts with a collar and long sleeves to cover as much skin as possible. The clothing needs to balance three important workplace needs: sun protection.

What is business dress code for summer? ›

Understanding Summer Business Attire

Opt for breathable fabrics and light colors that keep you cool, yet ensure your attire remains sharp and sophisticated. Think of lightweight blazers, tailored trousers, and breathable blouses—these are your go-to pieces.

Can you wear shorts to the office in summer? ›

There's no reason why wearing shorts to the office should mean showing more leg than you're comfortable with. These loose and breezy, knee-length shorts are proof that summer dressing is all about layers. For summer, add a plain T-shirt and sandles, and in autumn, add a light jacket and boots.

What is too hot in the workplace? ›

There's no law for maximum working temperature, or when it's too hot to work, because every workplace is different. No meaningful upper limit can be imposed because in many indoor workplaces high temperatures are not seasonal but created by work activity, for example in bakeries or foundries.

How to dress when it's too hot? ›

How to Look Great in a Heat Wave
  1. Wear loose flow-y clothing. Fashion has our back. ...
  2. Choose natural fabrics that breathe. ...
  3. Streamline beauty products. ...
  4. Foil sweat in black, prints and comfy underwear. ...
  5. Weatherproof your hair. ...
  6. Choose shoes that let feet breathe.
Jul 27, 2023

What do businessmen wear when it's hot? ›

Linen, bamboo, and lightweight cotton are your best bets.

Anything in a cotton, silk, or linen blend will be ideal for summer. They're breathable and airy, keeping you cool and confident. Pro-tip: if you don't like how much linen wrinkles, look for clothes with blends, like a cotton-linen fabric.

Is it appropriate to wear a dress to work? ›

Business professional

Women: Dress, dress pants, skirt, blouse, sweater, shirt, pantyhose, closed-toe shoes, conservative accessories. Skirts and dresses should always sit just above the knee or longer.

Is it inappropriate to wear a tight dress to work? ›

Fashion ads don't always convey "business."

A good rule of thumb for women is to avoid wearing tight or very form-fitting clothing, skirts that fall more than 2 inches above the knee, and shorts in general. For men, overly relaxed jeans or slacks, sandals, shorts, and tight-fitting clothing should be avoided.

Can I wear a maxi dress to work? ›

Maxi dress is a great alternative to wear to the office. It keeps you covered but still feels so light and airy. Being professional isn't just by wearing corporate attires. You can wear a maxi dress to the office and continue to look polished, conservative and good looking all together.

Can we wear dresses to the office? ›

A conservative dress can be a nice option for the office, especially when the weather is warm. A dress should extend to your knee or mid-calf, but wearing long dresses should typically be avoided, as they can look too formal.

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