Heat + work = office conundrum.
How to dress for the unpredictable British summer – in recent years the shortest season, yet no less complicated when it comes to wardrobe issues.
Cheap and cheerful, breezy neon brights and bold prints work when it comes to your off-duty wear, but not when it comes to smart dressing for the office. Whether you’re dressing to a strict office dress code or just avoiding the sweat your summer wardrobe must work hard.
On the one hand we’re told no sheer panels, tribal prints, sliders or exposing too much flesh in front of the boss. On the other, we want clothes that don’t cling to a hot thigh, turn transparent in the sunshine, or chafe in the heat. So much to think about, but how to get it right? The boardroom demands an outfit able to hold its shape, flatter and keep cool in the hot weather. Most importantly we want to be best dressed at all times – but not at the cost of comfort.
Linen, short-sleeves and the old faithful roll of a trouser leg are quick fixes but none suitable solutions. Instead we recommend trying cotton breathable fabrics, an open toed sandal or wedge, a pop of colour, loose shapes, and for the boys an on trend suede loafer as a lighter alternative to the leather brogue.
As with all seasons there are some trends that stick around year on year; the spring stripe, the autumnal knit and the summer gladiator. Some things are not meant to be changed. Here are some of our seasonal favourites to get you through a summer in the city.
THE SKIRT – pleated, midi and full
THE TROUSER – cropped or culotte
THE SPRING COAT – the duster coat
THE BLOCK HEEL – the midi
