Ideally, anytime it’s 90 percent humidity we should all be able to work from home—or from a Wi-Fi-enabled poolside cabana. But real life dictates that we still show up to the office looking somewhat presentable. Here are five tips for keeping cool without breaking the office dress code.
How to Dress for the Office When It’s a Million Degrees Outside
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Published Jul 2, 2018
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Go For Loose Silhouettes
Put away the form-fitting sheaths until fall. The less fabric that comes in contact with your skin, the better. That means wide-leg culottes, blousy tops and tent dresses are your best friends for the next two and a half months. Keep everything polished by minimizing details that could read as “beachy” (think embroidery and fringed edges).
Get the look: Eileen Fisher pants ($178); Glamorous dress ($65); Steve Madden sandals ($100)
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All Hail The Shirtdress
We’re pretty sure men are jealous that we get to wear what’s basically the equivalent of their work uniform sans pants. (To which we reply: Deal with it.)
Get the look: Eileen Fisher ($153); 1901 ($129); Boden ($130)
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Wear All The Black You Want
What, you thought we were going to tell you not to wear dark colors? We wouldn’t dream of it—black is actually the perfect camouflage for pits that won’t quit. Stay away from gray knits, though, unless you want everyone to know when your deodorant wears off. (Just swap out your shoes depending on your office environment.)
Get the look: Reformation ($98); Vince Camuto ($118); Chelsea28 ($149)
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Stick To Natural Fibers
Ever wonder why those dapper Florida retirees always wear linen suits? A) Because they’re the coolest, and B) because linen and cotton are hands down the most breathable fabrics. Synthetic rayon is also lightweight, but avoid it if you sweat more than average as it can prevent moisture from escaping. And skip any silk: Even though it’s natural, it shows sweat stains like nobody’s business.
Get the look: Milly pants ($350); By Far shoes ($415); Caara dress ($64)
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Keep An Office Sweater On Hand
You never know when aggressive corporate AC will strike.
Get the look: Caslon ($35); Madewell ($88); Barefoot Dreams ($130)