How to Slay At The Office: Chic Summer Workwear For Women Over 50

One of the hot topics in the workplace has been the return to office debate. As some companies are asking their employees to come back to the office, even if it’s part of a hybrid schedule, the conundrum of what to wear rears its head. Ever since both the pandemic and having children, classic workwear is a hard pass for me. The thought of wearing classic work trousers and button front tops is not even on my radar. So, trying to find options that are comfortable to wear, appropriate for the office, as well as cool and airy for the hot summer days, can be a difficult task. Here’s how to slay your business look at the office in chic summer workwear.

Chic Workwear For Women Over 50

Summer Workwear Tops

Summer work tops can be a dime a dozen, but if you want to stray away from the classic button down or typical dress top, it can be difficult to weed through the mass assortment out there. So, I found a couple of options that are more unique than what you would expect. If you are still into the idea of a blazer, but don’t want to wear a full-on traditional blazer, I found this sleeveless tailored blazer that is super edgy and still work appropriate.

If a blazer is not your workwear vibe, and you lean more casual for your office attire, you can try this cotton blouse from H&M. I am partial to the striped option, but the crisp white color is always a good look for the summertime. I also like the ruffle details to add some texture and additional interest to the shirt.

 

Summer Workwear Dresses

Dresses and rompers are a close second to what I prefer to wear during the warm summer months to the office. Slipping on a dress, adding a pair of sandals, and throwing on some simple jewelry is one of the easiest ways to feel put together and comfortable when heading to the office. This belted linen-blend midi-dress from Banana Republic Factory is a perfect example.

I’ve been dabbling in slip dresses again and just purchased this striped asymmetrical slip dress from Target. I was lucky enough to snag it during a 20% off sale, but the price is still great at only $30. If you’re not into stripes, it comes in a handful of solid colors too. This can be paired with a lightweight cardigan to wear in the office.

I also think this crepe satin midi dress is absolutely stunning and is a perfect addition to your summer office workwear wardrobe. Choose from three color options, but the Lei Flower color is my absolute favorite.

Summer Workwear Matching Sets

Remember how I said dresses and rompers are my second preference of workwear for the summer months? Well, matching sets have quickly become my first. My office is quite casual, so I have the freedom to wear loose and comfy sets in fabrics like linen and satin. If your office dress code it not as casual as mine, look for something like this blazer and wide leg pant set from Amazon. I’m partial to the tan color, but if you like brighter options, it comes in five other colorways.

I also really like the abstract print of this set. The tapered pants and scoop neck top give you a traditional office outfit silhouette. And the fact that it’s a matching set takes all of the guesswork out of getting ready for work.

Expert Style Tips

• Pay attention to fabrics. Workwear doesn’t have to be stiff and stuffy. Find pieces that are breathable, but can still look upscale like linen or silk. These fabrics look luxurious but keep you cool when the temperatures are at an all time high.
• Ditch the pants. If you ask me, pants have a monopoly over the other three seasons of the year. Living in the Midwest, spring, fall and winter can all be chilly. So, I take advantage of the hot weather and opt for dresses, skirts, and shorts for the summer. If those fit into your office dress code, I highly recommend you do the same. Free those legs for a little while!
• Look for pieces that you can wear now and later. Get items like a sleeveless blazer or matching set that you can wear now in the warm months and then wear later when it cools off. By layering them with long sleeves underneath, you are creating a way to repurpose your wardrobe and get the maximum wear out of your items.

Do you work in an office? Do you have a favorite outfit for work?

– Carmen Turner

You may also like to read more of Carmen’s fashion posts like Basic Black is Back In A Big Way for Spring/Summer 2024 and Chic Spring/Summer Wedding Guest Dresses from Black Tie to Casual.

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