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Staying Cool & Professional
Spring is well under way and summer is quickly approaching. And if you live in the South, you know how hot and humid the weather can be. From my research (ok, so it wasn’t really research, but a quick poll using my co-workers as subjects), I’ve found that most people have a hard time dressing for work during the summer. It’s always difficult to decide on what to wear each day when it’s 1000 degrees outside and your office feels 30 degrees below 0. Some companies have dress codes and there is a fine line that we sometimes cross when it comes to wearing our summer clothing in the workplace.
Luckily some companies are savvy enough with their marketing to showcase layers – cool blouses and polos that go under jackets. If you are online shopper like me, check out the websites of Old Navy or Banana Republic for additional ideas on business attire. These sites have a section dedicated to “wear to work” styles and they are constantly updated with clothing for the season. These companies have figured out how to sell the hot-to-cold-to-hot look.
*Please note: I am no Vogue or Marie Claire fashion columnist, however I felt compelled to share a few tips on dressing for work in these hot summer months while keeping your professional look.
Women have many more options than men do when it comes to dressing in business attire during the summer months. But there are still great alternatives for both. One idea that works for both genders is layering. Wear lighter clothing and add a cardigan or blazer to make the outfit less casual. That way you can throw your outerwear on for a client meeting and take it off when you head out to lunch.
No surprise here ladies: dresses are more comfortable and cool in the summer and are a great option for work. However, keep in mind that your dresses still need to be professional for the workplace. So wear dresses with thicker straps—that are at least two inches wide. They show less skin and will work with any HR dress codes. And if you are in doubt, you can always throw a cardigan on with it and that keeps it professional.
As soon as summer hits, we all have the urge to pull out our favorite pair of flip flops but most companies do not allow their employees to wear them. At some places it may be ok to wear a dress sandal instead of a whole shoe. If in doubt, ask someone in HR. Another tip is pulling your hair back in a sleek bun or ponytail so that you are staying cool while keeping your professional look.
Stay cool and have a great summer 
-Danielle K.
