5 Work Wardrobe Essentials for Summer

Getting dressed when the weather is above 80 degrees while trying to stay cool and comfortable and look pulled together can feel impossible. A few strategic wardrobe staples can make it so much easier.

If you’ve ever stood in front of your closet wondering how to dress for both a sweltering sidewalk and a freezing conference room, you’re not alone. Getting dressed when the weather is above 80 degrees and humid is not easy — trying to stay cool and comfortable and look pulled together can feel impossible. The good news?

 

 

So when you're battling heatwaves outside and goosebumps inside the office, we’ve got you covered with this guide for the best staples to have in your closet, regardless of the heat.

Sleeveless Dress

A sleeveless dress  provides the ultimate combination of tailoring and breathability, allowing you to stay cool yet professional while at work.  Choose the cut that works best with your silhouette; a straight shift to create curves or a simple A-line to balance shoulder or soften hips.  And no need to stick to only solid colors! Incorporate prints, bright colors, and details like scalloped hems, interesting belts and pinstripes to  keep your look sharp and on trend.

 

 

Shop some of our favorites:

 

 

Sleeveless Top

 

While short sleeves offer the perfect middle ground—sleevless is a great option for hot days — they arecooler than short sleeves, but still much more polished than a tank. For a more elevated look, choose more structured, tailored silhouettes. Choose pieces that have fun details, like ruffles, lace, embroidery or peplums that can stand on their own but you can layer under a jacket or cardi in order to survive the transition from AC to outdoors.

 

Shop some of our favorites:

 

 

Light Layer

 

 

Layers, even blazers or jackets don’t have to be heavy — but they will save you from over-air-conditioned spaces! Lightweight, breathable materials, such as cotton and linen, make it easy to cover up in the office without overheating.  On hot days think of lighter seasonal colors like  white, cream, blush, and pale blue instead of the traditional black, navy and gray. If your company is more casual, a denim jacket is a summer staple that can be easily worn to the office.

Shop some of our favorites:

 

 

Skirts with Style

Skirt can feel so much cooler than pants (or jeans) — and unlike a dress, they allow you to mix and match endlessly with different tops and layers. Opt for pencil skirt or A-line in lighter fabrics and colors for a more professional feel — and go with a neutral color if you want to pair it with just about any top. Or try a looser, flowing skirt in a great summer color or print to add more of a summer feel to your work style.

Shop some of our favorites:

 

 

Pants

Warmer weather doesn’t mean that you have to avoid pants completely — with wide-leg and cropped options, you can keep yourself covered and stay cool. We love linen pants, especially those with a touch of stretch that prevent the usual wrinkles. But these days there are also lots of breathable fabrics to add pants to your summer workwear wardrobe.

 

 

Shop some of our favorites:

 

 

Stay Cool at Work with Unfoldid

Do you feel like your work clothes could use an update this season? Unfoldid is here to help! We’ll work with you to figure out what you need to build a wardrobe that’s cool, comfortable, and professional through our Closet Editing services.