The Sliding Standard of the Summer Work Wardrobe
It doesn’t take us long to find something to gripe about in Britain. Even on a sunny summer’s day, we can still take issue with the weather. After all, what are you meant to wear to work when the weather is stifling? Obviously, there is some kind of dress code that you’ll need to adhere to but it tends to be defined by what’s socially acceptable rather than by any hard and fast set of rules. There are some things which have become rules, even though not everyone seems to have caught on. For men left to their own devices, socks with sandals springs to mind. Another would be the short-sleeved shirt with a tie look on anyone other than an airline steward. Dressing for work when it’s hot and sunny can be a tricky business; if you’re comfortable you might well be more productive but will you be taken seriously?
First of all, for those who steadfastly stick to their work wardrobe regardless of the temperature should remember that there’s something suspicious about sweaty people. No-one really wants to wear black tights in the height of summer but bare legs don’t always pass muster. There is no denying that the rules defining appropriate work wear are a lot more relaxed now than they were in the past. For example, in a lot of workplaces, Friday’s are a little bit more casual. However, there is the concern that the more freedom people are given, the more they’ll take advantage.
There are a great many people who are simply more worried about their immediate personal comfort than what might be deemed right or proper. It’s about judging the situation and tailoring your outfit to suit. To some, this is simply a sign of good manners. Being polite and courteous to people extends to your clothes.
So, what makes for appropriate office wear comes down to context. In more creative industries, summery frocks, no tights and sandals would be perfectly respectable. In the City, you would be advised to go for something monochrome for summer 2010, sticking to sleek tailoring and shift dresses. Don’t underestimate the difference that wearing lighter fabrics can make. You can stick to the same style that you’re comfortable in at work but make it suit the weather. If you’re trousers and a shirt, try going for something very light, like unlined mohair and a blouse. If you like to wear something well tailored but don’t want to feel too stuffy, a crepe silk dress with long sleeves or even a shorter, ruffled cap sleeve will look extremely smart while staying cool and comfortable.
You do have to bear in mind with a dress that the majority of professional offices will expect nylons, even in the height of summer. Instead of ditching the summer dress or risking the rolled eyes of colleagues, go for ultra sheer tights during the summer. When it comes to footwear, flip-flops just don’t give off an aura of professionalism but backless or open-toed shoes can be a great compromise and still smart. Test the waters with a conservative peep-toe if you’re not sure.
