Yahoo Lifestyle 47 summer work outfits to copy if you're all out of ideas
Running out of summer work outfit ideas? Fear not, we're here to help!
The Great British summertime is quite possibly the hardest season to dress for. Why? Because the weather forecast is so unpredictable. A heatwave with daily temps of 30 degrees followed by humid thunderstorms before finally settling into blustery days that require a jacket exclusively outside of the hours of 10am-6pm – it can only be a standard week in July.
Now, because we totally understand how tricky it is to look smart and stylish in the sweltering heat not to mention seasonally appropriate with the constant risk of rain, we've rounded up a slew of fab outfit ideas to get you out of your warm-weather workwear rut. Simply save these pics to your phone and whip them out when you find yourself in need of a little inspo.
Of course, what you wear to work totally depends on where you work, so we've thrown in ideas to cover a range of formalities, from super smart business-y office settings to more relaxed creative dress codes. From chic (yet breezy) blazers and dresses to the season's ubiquitous slouchy tailoring and some killer accessories, we've got you covered.
Without further ado, here's a whole load of fun – and fresh – Monday to Friday summer outfit ideas...
Summer work outfits
Waistcoats are both super-smart AND bang on trend. It's a workwear win-win! Shop the trend with our round-up of our favourite waistcoats.
Summer work outfits
We are planning on copying this look down to a T. The skirt suit! The contrast lurex shirt! The mules! The tinted glasses! It's a masterclass in vintage style.
Summer work outfits
A plain black maxi skirt will keep you cool in the heat, and look super chic when paired with a contrasting brightly coloured tee. Tabi boots optional (but preferable, obvs).
Summer work outfits
An oversized rugby shirt may not seem like the obvious thing to wear to work, but as long as it's brand new and worn with knee-high heeled boots to smarten it up, most offices *should* let you get away with it. Classic accessories like gold layered chain necklaces will add to the formal feel.
Summer work outfits
Work in an office that requires a suit? Upgrade to a bright blue pleated two-piece, paired with classic pointed heels and perfectly groomed hair and make-up. It's giving boss.
Summer work outfits
While we'd love to rock up to work in nothing but a crisp white shirt à la Carrie Bradshaw, that's just not going to cut it in most offices (understandably). A maxi cotton shirt-dress is a chic alternative. Just add nude undies to be on the safe side...
Summer work outfits
Longline bandeau tops are everywhere this season. Pair yours with matching trousers for a seamless look – in head-to-toe black, preferably. Don't want to invest in something new? A strapless mini-dress will do just as well. Pernille Teisbaeck said so!
Summer work outfits
We can totes see this look on someone who works in a cool, open-plan creative office somewhere in East London. Hiking boots or walking sandals are a trendy alternative to trainers – and nail the gorpcore trend we're loving rn! And the plaid shirt as a jacket providing the perfect colour pop addition to a classic black skirt and white tee combo? Genius.
Summer work outfits
Floaty white dresses are always a good idea in the summer – just make sure they're made from an opaque cotton to avoid any awkward flashing moments. The vintage-style collar on this dress adds an element of formality, while the leopard-print bag adds an edge.
Summer work outfits
If you haven't already bought yourself a matching waistcoat and trouser set to see you through the summer, then perhaps this fab look will finally convince you it's an actual essential. Slouchy yet smart at the same time, it's perfect for the office – and can be dressed down with white Converse or up with heels.
Summer work outfits
This 'fit is giving 'Park Avenue princess' – and we're totally here for it. A statement printed dress will be your summer workwear saviour, year in and year out. Add a patent silver mule for extra style points.
Summer work outfits
Shorts don't necessarily have to be... short! Jorts are reigning supreme and that just above the knee cut is far more office-appropriate. Opt for buttery leather styles in neutral shades for ultimate versatility.
Summer work outfits
White on white is our #1 fave colour combo for summer. Why? It's chic, and it's the perfect canvas for colourful accessories. Add a blazer on top if it needs to feel more formal.
Summer work outfits
*Chandler Bing voice* could pastel tailoring *be* any more summertime? If you work in a more traditional office environment, you mighttt want to swap the flip flops and crop top for something a smidge more formal, but the fact still stands: you can't beat a good summer suit.
Summer work outfits
Corset tops are in, but how do you rock them in the office? Layered over a crisp white shirt, ofc! This 'fit is as demure as it is fashion-forward – and we absolutely love it.
Summer work outfits
A statement trouser + neutral accessories = instant style. Sure, the snake print trousers might seem a tad bold, but they actually read as a neutral thanks to the colour palette. Plus, with toned-down accessories, they don't feel like too much.
Summer work outfits
For those of us based in the UK, summer doesn't always equal blazing heat. Womp. *But* on the upside, that means that summer knitwear is most definitely a thing. Clashing stripes are highly encouraged – just add sunnies and a bare leg.
Summer work outfits
One shirt, two ways. Wear your fave collared top with a trouser suit or, alternatively, layer under a strapless dress and shrug a blazer over your shoulders.
Summer work outfits
Let's be honest, no summer work wardrobe is really complete without a short suit. Dress it down with a pair of trainers and add a crop top (or carry in your bag for a post-work outfit update) for desk to bar vibes.
Summer work outfits
The sweater vest is a fab staple for turning floaty summer dresses into office approps attire. Finish with zesty accessories like this mustard top handle bag and boots combo.
Summer work outfits
Straight out of the gates we have this snazzy animal print blazer neatly offsetting the slouchy jeans. Finish with angular shades, chunky hardware and strappy heels for extra pizzazz.
Summer work outfits
A crisp white shirt is a *must* at this time of year - but make sure it's oversized rather than fitted, and buttoned down. That way, it will keep you fresh and look effortlessly elegant too.
Summer work outfits
How to style a bandeau top for work? Exactly. Like. This.
Summer work outfits
Stylish women have turned to silky midi skirts and matching blazers for many years now – but this hot pink version is *so* 2023. Office Barbie, is that you?
Summer work outfits
Love denim, but too hot to wear jeans? Then you're in luck, because the denim maxi skirt is hands-down *the* coolest item of the summer – and it looks particularly good when paired with a white tank and box-fresh sunnies.
Summer work outfits
The sweater vest strikes again, this time layered over a classic white tee and paired with navy work trousers.
Summer work outfits
Shorts and a t-shirt immediately go from weekend-only to work-appropriate when paired with a structured denim blazer and strappy heels.
Summer work outfits
A vibrant sleeveless knit is also an understated office staple, especially when teamed with balloon-shaped bottoms or a maxi skirt with flats.
Summer work outfits
Lean into the oversized blazer trend by wearing over a buttoned-up shirt and teaming with casual white trainers and skater socks for a sporty spin on the summer suit.
Summer work outfits
Team statement wide-leg trousers with a matching t-shirt and pumps or ballet flats (depending on your preference) for a quick and easy outfit to reach for in the morn.
Summer work outfits
The trench coat has a place in every office capsule wardrobe. Layer over bright separates and accessories to freshen up the classic outerwear piece.
Summer work outfits
Monochrome is also a failsafe office look. Add some summer vibes by switching out your blouse for a sleeveless number, sandals and a contrasting bag.
Summer work outfits
Inject some fun into your jeans and a blazer 'fit by wearing high top trainers and finishing with fun details like this cow print baguette bag.
Summer work outfits
Leather trousers might not be everyone's cup of tea but they're actually kinda great for wearing on those cooler overcast days, especially when paired with a colour pop blouse and flip-flop heels.
Summer work outfits
See what we mean about the blazer being an office wardrobe MVP? You can even wear it over a midi skirt and t-shirt.
Summer work outfits
Who said bike shorts aren't work appropriate? Answer: practically everyone. Granted, you might not be able to get away with this one at every office, but if you're in a more creative field, this is a fresh take on the ol' short suit.
Summer work outfits
This look is practically made for a creative office, with mid-length bottoms and a graphic t-shirt with rolled sleeves and edgy trainers to match.
Summer work outfits
Here's an even longer iteration of the short suit, this time in a monochrome version with the matching mock neck top underneath.
Summer work outfits
How about this fab example of taking your 'going out' outfit into the office, by layering loose party tops over a white shirt and teaming with cropped jeans.
Summer work outfits
This classic two-piece trouser suit is a timeless look, brought into the warmer months with the string shopper bag doubling as a handbag.
Summer work outfits
Denim shorts might not be an option in your office but, if they are, team with a velvet blazer and cowboy boots for a smarter spin on the summer classic.
Summer work outfits
When it's hot outside, a summer dress is the first thing you want to reach for. And there's a simple way to take your fave minis to the office. Simply grab your looser fitted pieces and team them with dainty jewellery and your favourite top handle bag.
Summer work outfits
Metallic is a summer mainstay for a reason. It's fresh, crisp and instantly takes any outfit from 'cool' to 'damn chic'. These trousers are a neat example if you feel like going all-out, but a silver pair of pumps or bag will work just as well.
Summer work outfits
Whether you're using them to make a mismatch suit, or simply to elevate one of your favourite logo tees, the wide-leg palazzo pants are back in style. Make sure to opt for long legs that scrunch at the ankle, and tapered pleats around the waist for the most flattering fit.
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