Late summer office dressing can get tricky. Searing hot temperatures are generally incompatible with classic office styling, regardless of how casual or formal a work environment may be. The last thing we want to do is schlep to the office in stiff, heavy fabrics — but that doesn’t mean we can or want to sacrifice style or professionalism. It is possible to emphasize comfort while looking put-together.
Below, we’ve rounded up actually lightweight, breezy and comfortable summer clothing that is polished and structured enough for every kind of office environment. From beautifully tailored cotton dresses to chic wide-leg bottoms and feather-light blouses, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to take a look and round out your summer wardrobe rotation with these floaty must-haves from some of your favorite brands and retailers.
A pair of gauzy barrel pants and matching top
These airy barrel pants from Gap are as breezy and cool as it gets, and you can also get the matching top for a full set. They're made with a soft cotton fabric that is breathable and billowy with a comfortable elastic waist that won't suffocate you in the heat. They're a pleasantly stylish option on an oppressively hot day. The barrel construction on the pants gives them a cool look that will pair well with chic tops and structured shoes. It's available in a few different colors in regular, tall and petite lengths in sizes XXS-XXL.
A wrinkle-, shrink- and static-resistant short-sleeved button-down shirt
Made of airy tencel fabric, this shirt has an effortless, drapey, slightly oversized silhouette that is sophisticated and timeless. It's ade with soft, breathable materials that will keep you cool on the hottest of days while still looking professional and tidy. You can get it in five different colors in sizes XS-XL.
Some relaxed linen culottes
Cropped and breathable, this cotton-linen style matches well with tees, tanks, sweaters and button-downs. The elastic back ensures a relaxed fit and side pockets add function. They come in sizes S-XL for a low-maintenance summer staple that you can wear anywhere, but they're ideal if you work in a more creative environment.
A short sleeved maxi dress
For a more casual office look, try this short-sleeved maxi dress made with stretchy, lightweight spandex and jersey blend material. The crewneck top has a timeless vibe while the miniamlist silhouette gives the dress a sleek look. It'll be easy to accessorize and layer come fall, making it a great investment for the scorching days ahead and beyond. It's available in a few different colors in sizes XS-4XL.
A pair of pleat-front wide-leg pants
Stay cool all day with this linen-cotton blend wide-leg. A high-rise fit with front pleats and an elastic back creates a flattering silhouette, while side pockets keep it practical. Available in sizes XS-3X and a variety of colors, it works just as well for errands as it does for the office.
A flouncy top with boho detailing
Enjoy fluttery sleeves and crochet details while still getting office-appropriate coverage with this crewneck top at Amazon. It's designed to be lightweight and soft, making it comfortable on super hot days. Pair it with jeans, trousers or tuck it into a skirt. It's available in a large selection of colors in sizes XS-6XL.
A linen blend midi skirt
Channel your inner '90s chic style with this gorgeous linen-blend midi skirt. The soft fabric is perfect for a hot summer day, while remaining structured enough for the office. It has an elastic waist with drawcords and a side slit for extra ventilation. You can get it in seven different colors in regular, tall and petite sizes in XXS-XXL.
A striped vest
Vests are a great way to keep your arms bare while still looking polished, intentional and covered up. This striped number is super versatile and can be styled any number of ways. Most importantly, it's made with soft, lightweight knit viscose-poly blend fabric that is lightweight and won't make you stinky, no matter how hot it may be outside. It's available in 15 colors in sizes XS-XL.
A pair of elegant wide-leg pants
When the temps are soaring, you can't have enough wide-leg pants to keep you looking professional without making you feel like a stuffed sausage. These poplin pants have an elastic waistband and faux fly that make them look tailored and refined while prioritizing comfort. The front pleats are elegant and the pockets make them even more convenient. You can get them in stripes or in a cream hue in regular, tall and petite lengths in sizes XXS-XL.
A fluttery, romantic blouse
Pair this romantic Victorian-inspired blouse with trousers or a skirt for a lovely look that won't cause you to overheat during your commute, so you arrive at the office looking fresh as a daisy. The oversized Peter Pan collar is a fun spin on the retro look while the subtle puff sleeves with tiny ruffles add even more visual interest. It's available in standard, petite and plus silhouettes in sizes XXS-3XL in nine different colors and patterns.
A gingham shirt dress
Despite what appears to be a casual silhouette upon first glance, this dress is tailored, refined and full of thoughtful details. It has a classic collar, billowing sleeves and pleats that will nip the waist in for the ideal shirt-dress look. It is designed to be a midi length, making it appropriate for most office settings while the flowing skirt keeps you cool and breezy. You can get it in standard, petite and plus sizes in sizes XXS-XL.
A linen maxi skirt
Available in three colors in sizes XS-XL, this effortlessly stylish skirt at Quince is made with ultra-light, breathable linen fabric that is ideal for summer. The maxi length makes it appropriate for work environments while a side slit adds a bit of style and air circulation. It's easy to style and includes two pockets for maximum convenience.
A two-piece set from Free People
If your office blasts the AC on hot days, then this skirt and cardigan set is the ideal solution. The low-slung, crisp, flowy skirt allows for plenty of air flow while the cardigan keeps you covered up and cozy. Layer it over a tank for sweltering commutes and then throw on the top once you get to your place of work. This set will also work beautifully in the fall season when paired with boots. It's available in six colors in sizes XS-XL.
A minimalist crinkled blouse
You won't have to sacrifice style for comfort with this woven, crinkled linen-cotton blend top. It is adorned with delicate pintucks and a lace trim that gives it an elegant look, while the balloon sleeves are a fun, flattering detail. Available in sizes XXS-XXL at H&M.