As summer settles in and temperatures rise, finding the balance between staying cool and looking professional can feel like a daily challenge. When the morning commute is already warm and the office air-con is blasting by midday, dressing for the season requires a bit of strategy.

But don’t worry, it’s entirely possible to feel comfortable and look polished, without sacrificing your personal style or professional edge. The key lies in smart fabric choices, clever layering, and a shift towards softer tones. Here’s how to master summer workwear like a pro.

1. Choose Breathable, Lightweight Fabrics

When the heat is on, your best friends are natural, breathable fabrics—think linen, cotton, and silk blends. These materials allow your skin to breathe and help regulate body temperature throughout the day.

Linen often gets a bad rap for wrinkling easily, but modern blends have come a long way. Brands like Theory, for instance, offer technical linen that creases far less while retaining that effortlessly crisp look. Try linen blazers, cotton button-ups, or a fluid silk dress for pieces that feel as cool as they look smart.

2. Embrace Sleeveless and Short Sleeves

While a long-sleeved blouse is undeniably classic, summer calls for a more relaxed silhouette. Sleeveless tops or short-sleeve blouses are a great way to stay comfortable without compromising on style.

Opt for elegant details, subtle pleats, tie-necks, or neat button-down designs, to elevate your look. Pair with high-waisted trousers or a tailored skirt for a sleek, office-ready outfit that won’t leave you overheating by lunchtime.

3. Lighten Up Your Colour Palette

Dark hues can feel heavy in the summer months—both visually and literally. Lighter colours not only reflect heat more effectively, but they also give off a fresh, polished vibe that’s perfect for the office.

Try incorporating soft neutrals like white, beige, dove grey or gentle pastels. These tones pair beautifully with most wardrobe staples and allow for effortless mix-and-match options throughout the week.

4. Step Into Comfortable, Stylish Footwear

Let’s face it—navigating city pavements in stilettos on a hot day is no one’s idea of a good time. Fortunately, comfort and style can go hand-in-hand.

Look for smart flats, chic mules or block-heeled shoes that offer both support and elegance. These are perfect for long days at the office (or running between meetings) while still keeping your outfit feeling refined.

5. Layer Lightly for Office Comfort

Summer might bring soaring outdoor temperatures, but inside the office? It can feel more like autumn. A lightweight layer is essential to help you transition between climates comfortably.

Think cotton-blend blazers, airy cardigans or soft knits—pieces that add just enough warmth without feeling bulky or stifling. Keep one on hand at your desk or in your bag for those inevitable air-con chills.

Summer workwear doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right mix of fabrics, colours, and clever styling, you can feel cool, confident, and completely office-appropriate, no matter how high the mercury rises. Dressing smartly for the season is all about ease and elegance, so embrace the warmer weather with looks that work hard and feel effortless.

Find your signature style for the office with our Colour & Style Clinics

Stefania Bartolomei
Personal Stylist, London