15 Summer Work Outfits That Will Get You Excited About Going Back to the Office

The perfect summer work outfit is all about balance—polished and professional while still keeping cool and comfortable is the ultimate goal. And though it’s been a while since we’ve had to think of any kind of work outfit, many of us are starting to re-enter the workplace, and now that summer is in full swing, the task of getting dressed up again while also ensuring you don’t overheat is no easy feat.

When assembling a summer work outfit it can be helpful to keep a few key things at top of mind: fabric, silhouette, and proportions. Linen and cotton are strong options when it comes to the texture of your clothing (avoid silk and wool at all costs, friends). As for silhouette, loose-fitted blouses and dresses that don’t cling to your skin are an easy way to achieve a formal aesthetic while keeping cool. When it comes to proportions, if you decide to go for a sleeveless blouse, consider balancing it out with a pair of linen trousers. Want to slip into a dress that’s above your knees? Wear a pair of lower heels or cute flats to make it feel more office-ready opposed to night-out—you get the idea. Ahead, 15 examples of office outfits that you can return to all summer long.

Cottagecore Moment

Pair your favorite puff-sleeve blouse with sleek black trousers (linen, preferably) and finish off the neutral look with a colorful pair of low-heel strappy sandals. 

Fun Florals

Reach for your favorite floral dress and team it with a pair of woven flats and delicate earrings for a look that’s elegant and versatile.

Minimalist Linen

Linen is king when it’s hot outside, which is why a blazer and jumpsuit crafted in the fabric are smart picks. To finish, gemstone-bedecked hoops.

'90s Nod

Indulge your nostalgic side and opt for a ‘90s-inspired office outfit featuring low-heel strappy sandals, micro florals, and a simple-yet-sleek blouse.

Sleek n’ Slouchy

While baggy clothing used to be associated with sloppy style, oversized fits can actually be the perfect way to feel chic in a flash. Layer a big white button-down shirt over wide-leg printed trousers and accessorize with heeled loafers.

Hero Skirt

Sometimes all you need to feel pulled together during summer’s warmest months is a cute wrap skirt. Complete the outfit with a plain white tee and lace-up espadrilles.

Vest Trend

If you’ve been on Instagram lately, you’ve probably noticed vests are experiencing a comeback. Translate the trend to your office attire with matching slacks and pointed-toe heels for distinctively cool look.

Parisian Vibe

Tuck a Breton stripe tee into a denim midi skirt to give your aesthetic an air of Parisian effortlessness. Add some hoops for a sleek finish.

Hint of Prairie

Swap out your wool trousers for high-waist linen pants and pair with a cheery gingham blouse up top. Rotate in a pair of woven flats to cement the summery appeal.

Carefree Florals

On especially hot days, a one-and-done kind of piece—like a loose floral dress—is the ideal summer work outfit. Grab your work tote and no-fuss flats.

Bold and Modern

Play with loud florals and unexpected colors, like slime green, to enliven your work outfit. 

Sweet and Simple

When in doubt, a sleeveless button-down, floral midi skirt, and woven heels are a reliable combination for hot summer days spent hard at work.

It's In the Bag

Grab a big, bold dress and balance it with a structured work bag and chic mules.

Monochrome Mood

Monochrome outfits always look polished—try it out this summer with a bright red top and pants duo complemented by a woven bag and ballet flats.

West Coast Feels

Lean into the relaxed mood of summer with a printed midi dress worn with wooden earrings and strappy sandals.