Let’s be honest—dressing for the office when it’s blazing outside can feel like a daily struggle. You want to look put-together, not melt in the process. The good news? You don’t have to choose between comfort and style. With the right fabrics, fits, and a little planning, your summer work wardrobe can work with the heat, not against it.
Here are some real-world tips to help you stay cool, look professional, and feel good through the hottest days.
1. Stick to Breathable Fabrics
This is the most important thing to get right. If your outfit doesn’t breathe, you'll feel stuffy before your second coffee. Look for natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and viscose. These materials are light and airy and allow your skin to breathe.
Avoid anything heavy or synthetic like polyester. It might look nice at first, but by midday, it’ll cling in all the wrong places. Our Linen Blend Button Midi Dress is a perfect example of how breathable can still be boardroom-appropriate.
2. Keep It Loose, Not Baggy
Fit matters. You don’t want anything skin-tight during summer—tight clothes trap heat. But going too oversized can make your outfit look sloppy. The key is choosing pieces that skim the body, not hug it.
Think flowy midi skirts, wide-leg trousers, or sleeveless tops with clean lines. Tailored doesn’t have to mean tight.
3. Go Lighter with Colours
Summer is the time to ease off the blacks and deep navies. Light colors not only reflect heat, but they also look fresh. Soft pastels, off-whites, or even subtle prints give a clean, polished feel without absorbing too much sun.
That doesn’t mean ditching your personality. A pale pink blazer or sage green blouse can still make a quiet statement without turning up the heat.
4. Layer Lightly
You’ll need layers—offices often crank the AC, even on hot days. But those layers should be just as summer-friendly as the rest of your outfit.
A thin, unlined blazer or a breathable longline vest can pull your look together without adding bulk. The trick is to keep it easy to remove or carry if you're heading outdoors.
5. Prioritise Versatility
Look for pieces that can carry you from your desk to after-work drinks. A wrap dress or tailored jumpsuit can do double duty. Accessories help too—swap flats for sandals, or add a bold earring to go from day to evening without changing your whole look.
Our Soft Tailored Wide-Leg Trousers are a great example—easy to dress up or down, and breezy enough for the summer heat.
6. Pay Attention to Footwear
Closed shoes can feel suffocating. Try a smart pair of open-toe sandals, slingbacks, or loafers in breathable material. Avoid anything too strappy or casual—yes, comfort matters, but so does staying office-appropriate.
And if your workplace allows it, a simple block-heeled mule might just become your summer go-to.
Final Thoughts
Choosing office outfits for hot days doesn’t mean sacrificing style or sweating through your morning meeting. Stick to breathable fabrics, relaxed fits, and light layers, and you’ll stay cool no matter how high the temps climb.
Need to refresh your summer wardrobe? Check out our collection of Work Outfits at My Look—perfect for staying sharp and comfortable all season.