I had a feeling this summer was going to be a scorcher, and so far it seems I was right – where I am, June has been muggy and the heat, oppressive. Dressing in these temps can be tricky and uncomfortable even when you’re just hanging out with your friends — add the particular perils of dressing for the office, and it feel impossible. 

Luckily, you’ve got options — with the addition of a couple of key pieces, you can have a trendy and breezy summer work wardrobe that won’t have you planning a move to Alaska. These pieces make dressing in the summer easy, especially when you pair these pieces with the light and neutral accessories you probably already own. 

Here are some summer work outfits for when it’s too hot to think:

Table of Contents

1. Loose Dress

Products: Blazer – Mango, Necklace – Madewell, Dress – LOFT, Loafers – Lulu’s, Hair Oil – Sephora, Eyeshadow – Sephora, Bag – Macy’s

A loose-fitting dress is honestly the easiest thing to throw on in the summer – no thinking about matching, or undershirts, or potentially sweaty bottoms. If you work in a more conservative office, don’t forget to add a blazer or cardigan, especially if your dress is sleeveless. I suggest a neutral color and/or breathable fabric for extra breeziness, like the cream blazer shown here. 

I love the throwback feel of this classic shirtdress – play up the retro-ness with a cognac bag, but throw in some modern touches too, like dusty camel backless loafers and a gold statement necklace. Finish the look with some soft rosy eyeshadow. 

2. Midi skirt

Products: Skirt – ASOS, Shirt – H&M, Blazer – Boohoo, Shoes – Nordstrom

If you need something a little longer but still want to avoid pants, try a mid length skirt. Skirts like these are perfect for catching that summer breeze but maintaining that work-appropriate feel.