How to Dress Appropriately for Work When It's Really Hot

We've all been there—it's scorching outside, and all you can think about is how much you don't want to step foot in your blazer or long-sleeved blouse. With a little creativity and some essential key pieces, the struggle of overheating in the office this summer can be completely avoided (or at least alleviated). There are a few tricks we have for you that will allow you to stay looking office-appropriate while also dressing in a way that embraces summer to its fullest.

Keep reading to see our tips on how to dress for work when it's really hot out.

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The Piece: Sandals
(Image credit: Collage Vintage)

It's obvious, but when the thought of slipping into a pair of closed-toed shoes makes you cringe, just opt for a simple pair of sandals. They don't have to spell out "beach"—elevate with a blazer and a smart dress. 

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Related: The One Outfit That Always Looks Polished for Work—Even During a Heatwave

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The Piece: A Short Dress
(Image credit: Style du Monde)

When wanting to pull off a shorter hemline, be sure to pair it with block heels as opposed to a stiletto to minimise the "night-out' look.

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Related: Dress and Loafers: Meet Your New Favourite Summer Office Outfit

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The Piece: A Tank Top
(Image credit: Style du Monde)

A slinky tank top is just the ticket for billowing wide-leg trousers. Cinch with a belt and add sleek leather accessories.

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Related: 5 Zara Dresses to Wear to All Your Summer Parties

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The Piece: Slit Skirt
(Image credit: Style du Monde)

If a longer hemline is a requirement in your office environment, try to find a skirt with a slit—you'll just feel a little bit less encased in fabric.

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Related: And Now, Our List of the Best T-Shirts of All Time

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The Piece: A T-Shirt
(Image credit: Collage Vintage)

Dress up a lightweight cotton T-shirt with a structured pencil skirt and plain flats. The tailored look of the skirt will instantly dress up any classic tee. 

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Related: Must-Read: Men Talk About What They Think of Maxi Dresses

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The Piece: A Jumpsuit
(Image credit: Style du Monde)

A lightweight jumpsuit is a great option for a hot, summer's day—keep it tailored for extra brownie points in your workplace.

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Editorial Director

Lauren Eggertsen is currently the editorial director of Who What Wear and has worked at the company for over eight years, where she started as an associate editor and has since worked her way up. Lauren has over 10 years of experience in the fashion editorial space, starting her career with internships at Marc Jacobs, Marie Claire, and The Zoe Report, where she was later hired as their editorial assistant. Lauren has worked in the Los Angeles and New York Who What Wear offices but currently calls L.A. home. It is here where she leads and manages Who What Wear's fashion team and oversees all day-to-day editorial content and large tentpole moments. This includes all of the runway, trend, and shopping-driven content that ultimately helps to build a strong brand reputation within the industry. Lauren's role also includes helping to set the fashion direction for all original photo shoots and often styles many of the celebrity cover shoots, including big names like Kaia Gerber, Normani, and Kristen Stewart.

She has also attended multiple fashion weeks, including New York, London, Milan, and Paris, where her personal style has been featured on sites such as Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, and Elle. She prides herself on discovering and supporting small brands and on her knack for a good vintage shopping find. When she isn't working, she enjoys researching and dining at reputable restaurants around both her neighborhood and the globe.