Stuck in a summer workwear rut? How to stay cool in the office this summer

Less clothing means less thought, right? Not exactly. Whipping up an office-friendly outfit that keeps you comfortable despite the heat can be difficult, but not impossible. If you’re struggling with the sticky weather and a wardrobe that just doesn’t want to co-operate, it might be time to make some new additions to your existing office repertoire.

Not only should summer clothes combat the humidity and the air-conditioner chill, they should be stylish but limit sweat patches, be comfortable and not chafe or constrict, and timeless yet current. Embrace looser cuts mixed with breathable fabrics and polished staples

The dress

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Diane Von Furstenberg, €415 at Brown Thomas; Zara floral print shirt dress, €49.95

It is no longer necessary to wear a corporate jacket and trouser combo to show you mean business – a bold dress looks authoritative yet feminine and is infinitely more flattering on larger waists. While a structured dress is a true workwear staple, look to the shirt dress for a clever and warm-weather appropriate alternative. A brilliant all-rounder, the shirt dress is longer than your average dress with wider hem that won’t ride up the leg when you sit down in a meeting, a belt that flatters curves and a elongated sleeve that conceals arm. Wear it with flats or heels, either solo or dressed up with a blazer. It can even do double-time on the weekend with a pair of flat strappy sandals.

The skirt

Don’t fall prey to misjudged hem lengths in summer and opt for sensible cuts and fabrics that will keep work hassle free. Just because the temperatures have risen that doesn’t mean your hemlines have to – hit the right mix of high fashion and office appropriate chic with an elegant midi skirt.

While a black pencil skirt can look too heavy in the heat, transpose it into a brighter, lighter colour or A-line that flares out subtly and will flatter any shape. If you’re looking for an even breezier summer option the pleated skirt in a vibrant shade adds that fresh flow but still looks slick enough for the office.

The blazer

Dressing sloppily because of the heat just won’t cut it, especially if you’re working in a setting that adheres to a more traditional set of sartorial guidelines. The easiest way to add polish to any outfit is with a blazer but when the heat is on substitute a traditional heavy layer for a light jacket. Paired with a tailored cropped trouser, the summer blazer is a fresh update on the two-piece suit, and the softer or draped neckline works well with a larger bust.

The shoes

Letting your feet sweat in steamy shoes all day is one of the less exciting aspects of summer dressing. (Sorry, but flip-flops are never acceptable, unless, of course, you work at the beach.) These backless mules or heeled pumps smarten up any look and will keep you cool.

The trousers

Culottes have been the coming thing since 2012 and now they’re finally here – and not going anywhere. Sure, they’re a massive trend, but how do you make them work in the workplace? Choose a streamlined structured shape in a slightly longer length so they just skim the ankle, and wear with a cotton shirt and block heels. Not convinced by culottes? Wide-leg trousers are the style du jour, so trade in straight or skinny legs and thick fabrics for a billowy trouser that will help your lower half breathe through the day. For women who have a fuller midsection and thighs, they will elongate and skim the silhouette. Opt for a slightly raised waistband that will help create the illusion of leg length.

The top

Whether it’s a classic white silk shirt or a statement style, the shirt is your fail-safe office piece, but isn’t your only alternative. A printed sleeveless top or off-the-shoulder can work layered under a blazer, but if you are one of those people who loathe sleeveless in warmer weather, try a breezy cap or cape sleeve in a vivid shade. It will feel just as airy as a tank-top but looks dressier and give you the coverage you crave. And when it comes to concealing, avoid overly sheer fabrics and test out light-coloured tops with nude, supportive underwear to ensure your colleagues don’t see more of you and your lingerie than they should.