If you haven’t already noticed, it is heating up here in Charlotte which means no more blazers and long pants. Thankfully, a few of our favorite boutiques around Charlotte have picked out the perfect summer options to wear in the office.
Dressing business casual/professional can be tricky during the hot summer months ~ you have to wear a certain amount of “coverage” to look presentable at work. To help you out, here are a few Dos and Donts when it comes to your sophisticated, summer wardrobe:
Do: Always keep a cardigan stashed away in your bag or desk for the days that walking/driving to work are too hot to wear anything but a sleeveless top. This way, you will always be prepared for those client meetings and when the A/C is blasting in your office. Also, switch your wardrobe from heavy materials to lighter fabrics like linen or cotton. This will make your outfits more breathable and comfortable. Even silks can be tricky when it comes to perspiration!
Don’t: As much as we want to wear spaghetti straps, strapless and halter tops in the heat, they are not appropriate for office attire, unless paired with a cardigan, light wrap or blazer. Next, save your flip flops for the pool and alternate your close-toed shoes for a classy sandal or peep-toe wedge. Unless you work in a boutique or very casual office, short shorts and rompers are almost never considered professional attire. Longer knee-length shorts and crops can work with a tailored top and “serious” shoes. And even if you do work in a trendy, short-friendly place, be sure to pair shorts with a lot of coverage up top and a dressier shoe, like the girls at Copper Penny did.
Finally, remember the “skin to fabric” ratio. We want you to stay looking suitable, so remember to keep it covered; less at the top is ok with long pants or a skirt, and shorter bottoms work well with more coverage on top.
Remember to stay cool in the heat, and walk into work with style. Happy Summer!
TRC Women’s
Charlotte’s
Monkee’s of Charlotte
Copper Penny
