Summer is the time of year for vibrancy, energy, and great weather. While you may not wish to spend this time at work, the warm weather gives you an opportunity to spice up your professional attire.
Now, you may feel like reaching for your shorts and sandals, but it’s probably not appropriate for your work environment. Here are some pointers on how you can make the most out of the hot weather, whilst still dressing like a pro.
Office à la mode
The clothes we wear often express our individuality. That being said, there are some general principles to follow with your summer work outfits.
You’ll want to opt for plant-based, breathable materials such as cotton and linen. They are light and comfortable, making them ideal for commuting and sitting at your desk. The last thing you want is to be stuck in a thick, heavy shirt all day.
You’ll also want to find the right fit for summer clothes. Loose-fitting clothing provides comfort and coolness (in both senses of the term). You’ll be able to move unrestricted and catch any breeze that comes your way. Short sleeves and hemmed trousers ensure comfort when it’s 30 degrees outside.
Finally, wear lighter colours where possible. Soft yellows, beiges, and off-white colours say summer without being too ‘in your face’. Employers and clients are usually more welcoming of brighter colours during the hot weather. Make the most of the opportunity to express yourself - add some floral patterns or even animal prints to stand out from the crowd.
Tailored to the situation
Many jobs vary day-by-day; you may have a meeting one day and a casual networking event the next. Here’s a breakdown of some situations and the appropriate attire for each occasion.
If you’re heading to a client meeting it’s likely you’ll be dressing more formally, and this often implies layers for both men and women. Choose materials such as Italian wool for casual blazers, and cotton for shirts, trousers and formal blazers.
For a slightly more casual affair, such as a creative networking event, you can afford to dress down. Relaxing a little whilst being tidy is key to success at these events (first impressions, and all that jazz). A fitted linen shirt can be a man’s friend and works well with cotton-based chinos and a casual blazer if required. The same goes for women, with the option of wearing a lightweight, below-the-knee skirt on the hottest of days.
What about dress down Friday? While it may sound like ‘anything goes’, especially during the summer, it’s often not the case. You’ll be at liberty to ramp up the colours and patterns to align yourself with the summer mood. Time for t-shirts, summer dresses, light chinos and skirts. Just try to avoid going full surfer mode.
Faux pas
Summer is the happy-go-lucky season of the year, but that doesn’t mean you can follow every fashion whim you have. You must still abide by your employer’s professional standards. As we mentioned already, sandals and shorts should definitely be avoided. There is such a thing as showing too much skin, so the same goes for vests and even more revealing tops, bottoms, or dresses.
Let’s face it, most workplaces have air conditioning (we feel for people in offices that don’t), so the main issue is probably going to be your commute. Once you’re at the office, you should be able to survive without needing to dress like you’re at the beach.
Here at Archie Foal, we believe that your clothes should mature and evolve as you do. We believe in timeless quality and sustainable style that tells a story. When you invest in Archie Foal, you can wear the same clothes again and again but never wear the same outfit twice. For exclusive designs that will last for many summers to come, browse our collection now.
