Business Clothes for Women: Summer Basics

Now that summer is upon us, should your business clothes change once the weather becomes unbearable?  Absolutely!  But you still need to maintain your credibility whatever the thermometer says.  You cannot be taken seriously wearing a halter top and shorts.

With that in mind, here are a few business wear essentials that should be in your warm weather wardrobe:

Lighter Jacket

If your position calls for a jacket or suit, opt for one in a summer-weight fabric like linen or silk.  Yes, those fabrics require more maintenance, but you’ll be able to look professional AND remain cool.

A-Line Skirt

A simple A-line looks great on most body types and it allows air to circulate around your thighs on those hot, hot days.  Much cooler than pants!

Collared Dress

Perennial favorites like shirt dresses and wrap dresses give you an easy, breezy professional look.

Classic Sheath

Always acceptable in any season, opt for a sheath with at least a little sleeve or wear a light jacket if it’s sleeveless.  Another bonus?  Sheaths transition to evening well with a quick change to evening accessories.

Cropped Pants

If you work in a business casual environment, cropped pants can offer a nice seasonal change.  Paired with heels and a jacket, they can look very sleek.

Slingback Pump

Slingbacks are a warm weather shoe and a nice alternative to full pumps.

Summer Bag or Briefcase

While dark leather handbags and briefcases work well for the other three seasons, you really need something lighter for summer.  Try a light colored leather bag if you work in a formal setting, a straw tote or clutch if the setting is more informal.

Again, your goal is to keep cool yet look professional.  While it’s always tempting to wear less during the summer season, don’t undermine your credibility by showing too much skin or being too trendy.  Sleeveless tops, mini-skirts, and shorts are all taboo in most business environments. If you’re male colleagues are more interested in your T&A than your P&L, you’ve got a problem.  Your clothes need to set boundaries.  If they don’t, change them.

Finally, remember that business clothes – like exercise gear, casual attire, and formal wear – all have their place and function.  If you’re wearing club wear to work and evening wear to church, you didn’t get the memo.  Align the clothes to the occasion and watch your income increase.

Ready to build a business wear wardrobe that will garner you the attention, respect, and salary you deserve?  Then download a copy of Business Wear Magic to learn the proper business clothes for women for each industry.

Related posts:

1. Classic Summer Business Looks
2. Women Business Suits Guide
3. July Photo Contest – Summer Business Attire
4. Business Casual Dress Code
5. August Photo Contest – Summer Vacation Clothes