3 Summer Outfit Formulas for Staying Chic in the Heat
Round out your workwear wardrobe with tailored separates, breezy shirtdresses, and commute-friendly bottoms.
There’s a lot of chatter on TikTok about what we’re wearing to work these days—specifically, summer-appropriate office outfit ideas. I have to say, friends, I’m nervous about the advice that’s being given. I’m not saying listening to TikTok WILL get you sent to HR…but I am saying it will leave you freezing (yes the AC is out of control, no you’re not losing it) and honestly, just plain uncomfortable! Here are some of my favorite outfit suggestions that will last you through the season.
Summer Tailoring
Lean into lightweight separates to make this one work. If your office is more conservative, a suit jacket will suffice. If it’s more creative, you can have fun with what’s considered “tailoring,” like a vest, long shorts, and a cotton poplin or linen button-down.
Shirtdresses
Low lift, high impact—what’s not to love? I generally go for one that hits right above the knee and switch out the cotton belt for a leather one to add some polish. Sleeves will also keep you warm in the aforementioned freezing office.
Commute-Friendly Skirts and Pants
There is very little I hate more than the backs of my thighs touching the subway seat on my daily commute. Consider it an ick, as the kids say. And it’s even worse on sticky summer days. Hence my affinity for knee- or midi-length skirts and light-weight cropped pants.
First time reading Self Checkout? Catch up on the past few weeks.
When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Nikki Ogunnaike is the Editor in Chief of Marie Claire US. She has previously held roles at Harper's Bazaar, GQ, ELLE, Glamour, InStyle, and Vanity Fair. You may also recognize Nikki from her time as the host of Snapchat’s Online, IRL and IGTV's The Run Through. Based in Brooklyn, New York, in her free time Nikki enjoys running half marathons, learning about wine, and watching reality TV without an ounce of shame. You can follow her at @nikkiogun.
-
Give Selena Gomez's 'Emilia Pérez' Coat the Oscar Already
The symbolic costuming choice is also my winter wardrobe inspiration.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
The True Story of Dolours and Marian Price Is Just As Harrowing As It Seems in 'Say Nothing'
The new FX series is set in Ireland during The Troubles.
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
Why Did Drunk Elephant Recall Three of Its Best-Selling Skincare Products?
Here's how to know if yours were compromised.
By Hanna Lustig Published
-
I’m Stocking Up on Gifts Ahead of Black Friday—Here’s What I’m Buying
From cozy cashmere socks to sturdy black boots.
By Nikki Ogunnaike Published
-
4 Outfit-Finishers That Will Perfect Any Look
These low-key pieces can actually make a huge difference.
By Nikki Ogunnaike Published
-
4 Types of Boots I’m Relying on This Fall and Winter
These boots were made for walking.
By Nikki Ogunnaike Published
-
4 Key Layering Pieces I’m Relying on This Fall and Winter
From snug shackets to tissue turtlenecks.
By Nikki Ogunnaike Published
-
4 Coat Styles Everyone Should Own at Every Budget
It's time to bundle up.
By Nikki Ogunnaike Published
-
4 Timeless Fall Fashion Trends I Wear Every Year
From trench coats to loafers, here are my most reliable fall-ready pieces.
By Nikki Ogunnaike Published
-
5 Majorly Discounted Items You Should Stock Up On Before They Sell Out
Don't miss these markdowns.
By Nikki Ogunnaike Published
-
5 Fall Personal Style Pieces I’ll Always Splurge on and 3 I Never Will
Take notes.
By Nikki Ogunnaike Published