This is a long, long overdue post on my top summer workwear tips and answering your FAQs when it comes to truly one of the most first world problems ever: what the hell to wear to work once the mercury starts rising.
I’m excited for this one! First things first, some general caveats…
- Although this blog post contains my personal thoughts, it’s just based on my experiences – and your workplace might be different. Generally, you really can’t go wrong if you follow the lead of your colleagues!
- Post-Covid, dress codes do seem to have relaxed. However as a general rule of thumb, I always think, if you’re having to ask yourself whether something is appropriate, it’s probably not! Better to stay on the safe side 🙂
- If you do have a dress code, employee manual, etc. – give that a quick squizz.
Okay enough of the boring stuff! Let’s get into it…
FAQs from the guys/male-presenting/male of centre folk
Are shorts acceptable?
Okay, so – my guy pals had a BIG range of views on this one. A couple said it was fine to wear shorts in their workplace (two even sent pictures of themselves clad in said shorts!), a couple said absolutely not, and they all work in a corporate environment. So where the hell does that leave ya?!
Honest opinion? If you’re in any doubt, I wouldn’t wear shorts. On a practical level it’s likely your office is air conned and so you only really need to survive your commute, anyway. And I genuinely cannot imagine either of the partners in my team in shorts, lollll.
So I would pop your gams away for now, and stick to a lightweight chino or similar.
What bloody shoes do I wear in summer?!
When I look at the stylish chaps in my life, for me, it’s gotta be: a suede loafer in a dark colour; a boat shoe; or a dressy trainer (in order of smart to casual!) come summer.
A dress or more formal shoe just doesn’t look right with a more casual trouser/chino, to me.
FAQs from the ladies/female-presenting/female of centre folk
Is it okay to wear open-toed shoes?
Yep, in all of the offices I’ve worked in, there have been women who’ve worn sandals 🙂 as always, if in doubt, I’d just follow others’ lead!
And if you’re still not sure you can personally get the ol’ toes out, you could always opt for a shoe which is otherwise open but covers your toes (if that makes sense!!) – like an espadrille or a mule.
To be honest you could also just wear whatever footwear you want for your commute and change in the office, as it’ll likely be air conned and you won’t need to wear sandals per se!
Is it okay to go bare legged?
I don’t have too much to say here except: yes! In all of the offices I’ve worked in, this has been absolutely fine. No need for sheer tights unless you particularly want to wear them.
Some general summer workwear rules of thumb
- My only real ‘rule’ when it comes to workwear is this: comfort is KEY. This is never more important than in summer!
- Opt for lightweight but still crisps fabrics – like linen and cotton – for a breathable, yet chic, look.
- Layering is vital come summer time, because between your commute, the office, and running around throughout the day, you’ll probably experience a few different temps!
- I aaaaalways have a jacket with me in the office regardless of the outside temp, as there really is some sort of conspiracy amongst law firms to make them FREEZING.
- When it comes to summer I always think your tailoring can be more relaxed – think, slouchy blazers over fitted jackets.
- Summer is such a fun and inspiring time to experiment with fashion, and I firmly believe that workwear doesn’t have to be boring, as you guys know! I definitely think you can experiment with a bit more colour and some more design-led pieces.
דירה דיסקרטית בחולון says
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