How to Rock Work-Appropriate Summer Outfits

It’s getting hot out there, but you already know this. At this point in the summer, the last thing you want to do is get dressed up every day for work, and you’d love nothing more than to throw on some flip-flops and shorts. Yeah, that’s probably not going to fly. Luckily, there are definitely ways to keep cool and office-appropriate in sweltering temperatures. Keep reading to see how you can make a stylish statement without sweating up a storm. Here are some tried and true tips on how to stay cool in work-appropriate summer outfits.

If You’re Headed to an Interview

 

See your trusty black pantsuit? In this heat, skip right over that baby. Instead, you’ll want to layer like a pro. Start with a sleek pencil skirt, then add a sophisticated top: short sleeved, sleeveless, 3/4 sleeved, or even a tank if it’s appropriate for your office. Then, right before you head out the door, simply throw on a blazer to look interview-ready. My favorite look always includes a patterned top! Unless you’re interviewing in an extremely conservative environment, patterns are perfectly appropriate and will inject personality into a potentially blah ensemble.

 

If You’re Headed to Happy Hour After Work

 

While a night out after work might inspire you to pull out something fun and fitted, loose-fitting garb is the only way to go. Remember, you want your sweat to evaporate, and tight clothing will only retain moisture.
Look for tunics and shift dresses, which go effortlessly from day to night. You can also keep a cute clutch and pair of heels in your car or bottom desk drawer and trade them in quickly for a more fun look. And if humidity has taken a toll on your hair over the course of the day, add a quick topknot to complete your transformation.

If Your Office Has Casual Friday

 

 

In the cooler months, casual Friday is so easy—throw on your favorite dark jeans with a great top, and you’re good to go! But the summer is a bit tougher: It’s too hot to wear jeans, but shorts and sundresses aren’t HR-approved at most offices.
My summertime go-to is casual-yet-covered dresses in cotton, rayon, and silk-linen blends, which will stay wrinkle free and “breathe” efficiently. (Synthetic materials, like polyester, actually retain both moisture and heat.) I picked this dress because it’s a more fun look than I’d wear Monday to Thursday, but it’s still perfectly professional if I get pulled into a meeting.

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Angelika
(credit: L.R.)

SIMPLE TIPS FOR DRESSING FOR THE JOB YOU WANT

Anyone will tell you to “dress appropriately” for an interview. But what does that even mean? Whether you’ve landed an interview for your dream internship or a part-time gig as a barista, these foolproof tips will help you ensure you leave a lasting impression.

1. Always mirror the work environment dress code

If you’re interviewing for a job at a financial institution, you’ll have to stick with basic shapes, as that is the appropriate dress form for that workplace. If you’re interviewing at creative offices then you have more freedom.

2. Pick one brightly colored article of clothing or accessory.

Hello color! If you want to add a pop of color (or color block) this is totally acceptable. Mixing colors is fine just don’t introduce more than one super bright piece or your outfit will just become loud.

3. Don’t default to the standard blazer and pant – unless you really want to.

Skirts and dresses are a great way to stand out. Skirts shouldn’t be too tight or short — pencil skirts or midi skirts are both great options. Tuck in a button up or layer one with a knit for a more conservative look.

4. Dress for the job you want, not the one you had or currently have.

This is important! If you are competing for the position of assistant to the editor-in-chief at Teen Vogue, with the hopes of eventually becoming an editor, dress like an editor would! You’ll feel more empowered and come off that way in the meeting. It makes the world of a difference.

5. As a rule of thumb, one piece of statement jewelry will go a long way.

Don’t over accessorize – it’s distracting. Instead opt for a few bangles, or a bold necklace.

6. Opt for heels where possible.

 Heels give you a lift, make you walk straighter and just elevate any simple look to the next level. If possible, throw a pair on! Just keep it around or under 3″.

7. Keep your makeup natural.

Let all the attention be on what you have to say, not what you have on your face. Go for a simple eyeliner and mascara, with light blush and nude lips. Anything that will make you look polished, work awake and vibrant is perfect. 

8. Dress to flatter your body type.

This should seem obvious, but the most important thing about dressing well is always flattering your individual body type with things that fit you best. That plan-b knit top that works so well when you’re in a rush – that’s probably the kind of the thing you want to consider, not the leopard print pants you’ve but test drove once to your BFF’s house party.

Do you have any other tips to share about dressing for an interview? Comment below with your ideas! xo

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Angelika

www.styleupbyangel.com

( credit: L.R.)