Ahem, Here's Exactly What to Wear to Work in the Summer (Yes, You're Welcome!)
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Most of us can probably agree that dressing for summer isn't super difficult. I mean, I'll put on all of the twirl-worthy strapless dresses, easy jumpsuits (with cut-outs and an open back—feel me?), or a T-shirt and shorts combo any day. But when you need a 'fit that will keep you cool in a more professional setting, things can get a lil tricky. For most work environments, denim shorts and a crop top just aren't gonna cut it—but you don't want to feel miserable when the temps are reaching record highs. So, um, what the heck are you supposed to wear to the office (or even a profesh Zoom meeting) during the summer?
Let's start with what's pretty much the best trick in the book: layering. This is key when you're moving between 90 degree weather and 65 degree office A/C all day. Keeping a lightweight or sleeveless top on whenever you're wearing trousers, jeans, or a skirt is definitely a must—especially if you're gonna top it with a blazer or cardigan while indoors. And on that note, you might as well keep some sort of outerwear on-hand at your workplace if you get chilly easily. That way, you can dress for the temperature outside instead of inside (and won't melt as soon as you leave for the day). I know, I know—so much to consider but that's why we're making it simple for you. Keep scrolling for summer looks that serve!
Our top picks for the best summer work outfits of 2024:
Of course, if you're looking for a lil inspo, we've got you covered—just not too covered (see what I did there?)! From chic suiting (yes, there's such a thing as summer pants) to elevated casual looks (maxi dress, anyone?), peep 40 seriously cute summer work outfits, below.
Nilana Dress, Brown Mustard Multi
Get groovy in a lightweight printed cutie. A bonus would be putting on some platform sandals, too!
Nilana Dress, Brown Mustard Multi
amazon.com
$128.00
Women's Ilana Loose Sleeveless Wide-Hem Poplin Maxi Dress
If you're like me and you sometimes hate wearing tight clothes in scorching temps, you'll be relieved with this ideal solution.
Women's Ilana Loose Sleeveless Wide-Hem Poplin Maxi Dress
amazon.com
$48.52
Jumpsuits for Women Dressy Casual Summer
Jumpsuits for Women Dressy Casual Summer
amazon.com
$38.99
Lateefa Knit Muti Stripe Bell Bottom Pants W. Pockets
Lateefa Knit Muti Stripe Bell Bottom Pants W. Pockets
rebdolls.com
$49.90
Peony Corset Mini Skater Dress
How adorbs is this skater dress? It'll be even cuter if you wear it with a pop of color on your feet!
Peony Corset Mini Skater Dress
rebdolls.com
$74.90
MANGO - Tie-dye satin pants red - XL - Women
A set that feels like pajamas but looks super luxe? Sign me up.
MANGO - Tie-dye satin pants red - XL - Women
mango.com
$89.99
Kady Fit Double-Weave Pant
You'll get a taste of the rainbow with these work pants that are available in tons of colors! Style with a striped tee.
Kady Fit Double-Weave Pant
$55.96
Linen Pool Boy Top
Sticky clothes where? Those nasty subways got nothin' on you this summer.
Linen Pool Boy Top
amazon.com
$145.00
Enola Dress, Mustard
Oh hey there, sunshine. You belong in this dress!
Enola Dress, Mustard
amazon.com
$89.07
Jumpsuit
Stay comfy in a stretchy jumpsuit. Worn with fun jewelry (or not) and cute shoes, it's ideal for a chill office look.
Jumpsuit
amazon.com
$28.99
Women's Overalls
If you're trying to avoid wearing black in the hottest months (I get it), opt for mixing two different shades of white for a chic vibe. Plus, overalls are so fun!
Women's Overalls
amazon.com
$37.99
White Shirt
Found: the perfect happy friyay 'fit!
White Shirt
goodamerican.com
$139.00
Denim Midi Skirt
This classic combo will serve you well all season long. Just add your favorite sandals, heels, or even sneakers.
Denim Midi Skirt
abercrombie.com
$48.00
Lina Pleated Linen Short
Why, of course you can wear shorts to work! Get the matching vest and some loafers and you'll look so profesh.
Lina Pleated Linen Short
bananarepublic.gap.com
$90.00
Jacksonville Jumpsuit
Sometimes it's a little too hot for denim—but on a breezy (or rainy) day, this jumpsuit makes for a great pick.
Jacksonville Jumpsuit
revolve.com
$218.00
Two Piece
Sets are so freakin' easy and the good news is that this particular one comes in several basic and fun colors.
Two Piece
amazon.com
$45.99
by Marianna Matteah Top
You'll be the chicest employee wearing this ruched poplin top with trousers or a midi.
by Marianna Matteah Top
$188.00
The Ariana V-Neck Mini Dress
Definitely wear this effortless one on a Monday. It'll make your day a lot easier.
The Ariana V-Neck Mini Dress
madewell.com
$128.00
The A&F Paloma Midi Dress
Rave Review: "It feels like butter and hugs in all of the right places. The slit is just high enough to be professional and also a bit saucy."
The A&F Paloma Midi Dress
abercrombie.com
$80.00
Harris Button Down Shirt Dress
Wear this button-up as a dress or with trousers for a laidback look.
Harris Button Down Shirt Dress
dia.com
$148.00
Tailored Barrel Leg Pants
Umm, yeah your jeans will totally be jealous of how easy these barrel leg pants win your heart.
Tailored Barrel Leg Pants
us.asos.com
$36.09
Linen-Blend Blazer
Linen is the fabric of summer for good reason. It looks so chic and keeps you from overheating.
Linen-Blend Blazer
abercrombie.com
$120.00
Maxi Washable Gauze Halter Tiered Dress
Gingham is so cute for the summer—and this mini wrap dress proves it.
Maxi Washable Gauze Halter Tiered Dress
torrid.com
$85.90
Striped Top
Ruffles! Peplum! Stripes! This cute top has it all. Pair with some denim to keep it basic on the bottom.
Striped Top
shopbop.com
$460.00
City Maxi Dress
A tiered, lightweight dress that's as twirl-worthy as this simplistic beaut is perf for any sweaty day in the city.
City Maxi Dress
shopbop.com
$398.00
Printed Button Down
'Tis the season to go bold! This bright button-down will pair so well with all your fave summer pants.
Printed Button Down
eloquii.com
$49.99
Superwide-Leg Jeans in Olcott Wash: Pleated Edition
If you work in a casual office, try a pair of wide-leg jeans with a graphic tee and loafers. Don't forget the cardi to wear if the A/C is too chilly!
Superwide-Leg Jeans in Olcott Wash: Pleated Edition
madewell.com
$69.99
Twist-detail Shirt Dress
On days you really don't feel like putting in effort, toss on a shirt dress with your fave summer shoes.
Twist-detail Shirt Dress
hm.com
$29.99
Slim Sleeveless Bodysuit
Tired of tucking in your blouses? This bodysuit is about to change your workwear game, bb.
Slim Sleeveless Bodysuit
stories.com
$69.00
Crew Neck Tee
Brights really are a great way to add some fun to your summer wardrobe—and this tee is so versatile!
Crew Neck Tee
revolve.com
$50.00
Burnout Oversized Blazer
If you're gonna wear a full suit this summer, try it in a white hue for a sleek look that won't have you overheating.
Burnout Oversized Blazer
$83.97
The Easy Pant
We all need a pair of no-fuss pants that we can slip into, especially when we're running late. Might as well stock up on this pair that also comes in sage green, navy, khaki, and more!
The Easy Pant
everlane.com
$88.00
Reversible Sundial Wrap Dress
The best part about this pretty printed number? You can wear it inside-out!
Reversible Sundial Wrap Dress
neverfullydressed.com
$145.00
Ruched Top
Idk about you but this pretty ruched top is the kind of staple I need in my closet. Pair with some sleek slacks and voila!
Ruched Top
reona.ca
$95.00
Supersoft Essentials Solid Gathered Tank Dress
The LBD will always reign, no matter the season.
Supersoft Essentials Solid Gathered Tank Dress
$28.80
Algarve Shirt Dress
You'll prob have to use extra starch when ironing this shirt dress but I bet you'll be the flyest one out there in it.
Algarve Shirt Dress
monos.com
$145.00
Debby Midi Dress
This hue just screams summer, and it's cute enough to wear out to dinner after work, too.
Debby Midi Dress
showpo.com
$69.95
Sleeveless Satin Bow Blouse
For those who love a classic workwear vibe, allow me to introduce you to this cute tie-neck blouse that'll go with all your pants and skirts.
Sleeveless Satin Bow Blouse
$23.98
hot Twist Top
Heading to happy hour? Throw on a leather jacket over this twist top and you're ready to go.
hot Twist Top
citychiconline.com
$41.40
Fruit Square Neck Puff Sleeve Midi Dress Curve & Plus
If you wanna add a lil edge to your work week, this vibrant yet moody maxi is calling your name.
Fruit Square Neck Puff Sleeve Midi Dress Curve & Plus
shopcider.com
$28.00
Nolan Jean
It doesn't get much better than a white button-down and jeans, people!
Nolan Jean
$268.00
Blooming Sophistication Cream Floral Print Blazer
Oh, this? Just another shorts option for you. The black and white floral print is soooo good, right?
Blooming Sophistication Cream Floral Print Blazer
Lulus
$54.00
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