Summer Workwear for Women
Summer in Louisiana means we can count on heat and humidity being at their peak and the need for cool and comfortable summer workwear for women. We can also count on having summer-like weather well after the end of August.
Fortunately, women wanting style and comfort in their workday attire have plenty of options to choose from. Selecting the right fabrics will ensure you stay comfortable during warm weather and having a variety of styles and materials to choose from can expand your styling options. Keep these tips and ideas in mind when selecting summer clothing and accessories.
Select Breathable Fabrics
If you want your summer workwear to be cool and comfortable you will need to select breathable fabrics. While natural fibers are excellent choices that allow air to circulate and wick moisture away from your body, fabric blends can expand your style choices since they have many benefits of their own.
Cotton is a natural fiber and an excellent choice in humid climates like ours because it makes the heat more tolerable. Cotton can, and in our experience does, shrink in the clothes dryer – so consider letting your cotton shirts, pants, and skirts hang dry to minimize shrinkage.
Linen is another natural fiber to consider since it has a light weave that allows for more air to circulate. Linen is known to have a lived-in kind of beauty that might take some time to get comfortable with if you enjoy a wrinkle-free look.
Chambray, which is made of cotton or linen – has a high thread count and a finer weave, is another fabric option to consider when you are looking to stay cool in a humid climate. Shirts with a soft-denim look are often made of Chambray, a popular alternative for someone wanting a denim look without the weight.
Blends are synthetic fabrics that are known for removing moisture (like athletic wear), which makes them another smart choice for our humid climate. Blends are machine washable and dryable, do not shrink, and require no ironing – which makes them a versatile and low-maintenance choice.
Dresses & Skirts
Dresses and skirts are a great option for summer workwear, as they allow air to circulate freely. Look for knee-length or midi dresses in light fabrics. A-line dresses are flattering and provide a comfortable fit. Pair them with a light cardigan or an unlined blazer for a polished look.
Wide-Leg Pants
Wide-leg pants are trendy and a wonderful choice for summer workwear. Select pants in breathable fabrics and pair them with a lightweight blouse or a sleeveless top for a modern and comfortable ensemble that is comfortable and professional.
Select Light Colors
According to an article in sciencing.com, the adage that dark colors absorb more heat is true. This is not the best news for those of us who have built a wardrobe with dark colors as our primary style aesthetic.
That does not mean we have to forsake our favorite foundation color, but we do need to consider the fabrics we are choosing and consider the placement of darker colors.
Dark pants and skirts are still a workable summer wardrobe option, and they pair well with light-colored tops that are suitable for the workday. In general, selecting light-colored clothing, such as pastels or neutrals that reflect sunlight, may help keep you cool.
Sleeve Options
While short-sleeved tops are rarely taboo in the workplace, some of the sleeveless options might be frowned upon. If your workplace allows it, summertime is a suitable time to add sleeveless options to your work wardrobe.
Stick with sleeveless tops and dresses that have a modest cut and appropriate length to keep it professional.
Shoes
If there is ever a time to choose comfort over style it is when you are selecting shoes, especially in the summer. Fortunately, there is no shortage of color, comfort, or style options to choose from.
If trying your new shoes on before making a purchase is a personal must, we recommend visiting a local boutique where you may find a higher level of personalized service. Looking for a wide variety to choose from? Local department stores have plenty of options for you to try. If you have already found a favorite shoe and want to order it in more colors an online search is a good place to start.
Jewelry
What do you do on the days when it just feels too hot to wear a lot of jewelry and accessories? You skip it! Jewelry and accessory trends are only enjoyable if you are comfortable wearing them, so if you need to pass on jewelry for a day or two, you go right ahead.
If you still want to accessorize but you are not into stacks, bulky necklaces, and bracelets consider a statement piece. Oversized pendants, cameo, and other eye-catching accents are on trend, and they are a clever way for you to show your sense of style and establish your look of the day.
Remember, we have a few more months before the weather really starts to cool down so it is not too late to discover or create stylish work-appropriate outfits you will enjoy wearing.
If you need a little inspiration or suggestions for workday attire, we have something that can help. Our editor’s picks include a curated list of blouses, pants, skirts, shoes, and accessories in a variety of styles, sizes, and colors.
