Summer Work Outfits for the Warm Weather Season

When it comes to work outfits, I know that things can feel a bit boring or uninspiring. However, just because work wear is generally more “buttoned up” that doesn’t mean it has to look bland. But, with the added challenge of dressing for warmer (and potentially humid) temperatures, things can get even trickier.

I know many of you still head in to work a proper 9-5, and even if you work remote, you might have coffee meetings or business happy hours you have to attend. Either way, I’m sharing a handful of summer work outfit ideas that will help you look and feel your best.

Dressing for an office requires some very specific elements: your outfit should be elevated, professional, and polished. This likely nixes some of your go-to pieces for a date night out, but I promise that with a little effort, you’ll be surprised by how versatile and fun these business-appropriate picks are.

p.s. You’ll notice that each of these looks features trousers as the base layer. If you want to find even more trouser styling inspiration, check out this blog post.

Summer Work Outfits

A Silk Blouse and Trousers

If I learned one thing from fashion trends this year it’s that trousers are very much in. They offer an instantly elevated feel, and honestly have become a new “it girl” item. I love this particular style of pants because while they’re appropriate for professional and upscale settings, they also have a way of seamlessly transitioning to more laid-back environments.

Pair your favorite trousers with a silk blouse for a summer-ready look. The soft green hue on this pick is so fun for the fresh season, and the swooping, cowl neck fit adds a touch of elegance.

Finish the look with a basic pair of sling back heels, flats, or even loafers (just choose whatever you’re most comfortable in!)

A Button-Up Shirt and Trousers

Another go-to item to wear to work? A button-up shirt, of course. This classic piece will provide you with plenty opportunity for wear, even on the occasions when you’re not heading to your desk.

While there are numerous ways you can style this outfit idea, I’d suggest tucking your top in for a more fitted and streamlined look. You could also leave one side of the shirt untucked if your office setting is more creative and casual.

I love the way a blue and white striped shirt looks—there’s something about it that feels so summery. If that exact print isn’t so much your thing, swap it for a solid colored option or something with another pattern.

A Cardigan and Trousers

For a work outfit that will take you from summer to fall, reach for a trusted cardigan. This is another choice that has seemingly endless opportunities for styling, and another perk is that it could easily be layered.

If it’s a bit toasty outside, add a basic white t-shirt or tank top underneath your cardi—then take the cardigan off when you’re out and about or during your lunch break. You could also leave your cardigan unbuttoned if you just want to get a little more of a breeze.

Regardless of how you layer things, accessorizing with a slim belt can help break up your look and define your waist line. It can also help things look more well-styled!

A White Button-Up and Trousers

In my opinion, you can never go wrong with an all-white look, including in a work environment. Out of all the looks in this post, I’d say this one is likely the best to wear when you’re heading somewhere after you’re done with your work day.

It’s on the more casual side but adding loafers makes it look highly put-together without sacrificing comfort. Tip: Look for a lightweight button-up top when dressing for summer weather. Also, linen-blend trousers can keep you cooler than traditional work pants (these are my fave!)

That’s it! I hope this post gave you some inspiration on what to wear to the office in the summer. What are some of your go-to outfits? Let me know in the comment section below!