Beat the summer heat: office style essentials
Heading into the office
in the depths of summer should, first of all, be illegal. Frankly, it’s a logistical nightmare – sweat, AC blasts, and the constant battle against wardrobe fatigue.A smarter approach to summer workwear
Let’s be honest: arriving at your desk dripping in the remnants of a morning’s effort isn't a winning start. And neither is the sudden chill when the office AC kicks into high gear, instantly evaporating that newfound coolness. But after countless hours spent testing fabrics, cuts, and silhouettes, we’ve identified what truly works for conquering the office heat.
Breathable fabrics are key
We’re talking linens and cottons – materials that actively encourage airflow. Open weaves are paramount; they allow heat to escape, preventing that clammy feeling. Think loose silhouettes that don’t cling to the skin. It’s about prioritizing comfort without sacrificing professionalism.
Styling strategies for flexibility
A linen trouser or resort shirt, when paired with a structured blazer or button-down, can easily transition from beach day to boardroom. A lightweight linen jacket is also a surprisingly versatile layer, offering both warmth and a touch of sophistication. Consider a long-sleeve linen shirt – a subtle but effective shield against the office’s unpredictable temperature shifts.
Top picks for a cool and polished look
Citizens of Humanity Single Pocket Linen Workshirt ($258 at citizensofhumanity.com) – A classic for a reason. Suitsupply Straight Leg Suit Pants ($199 at Suitsupply – Tailored linen trousers are a surprisingly robust option. Madewell Boxy Pocket Tee ($50 at Madewell) – This is your go-to for layering, especially when paired with a linen shirt. Todd Snyder Italian Linen Sutton Suit ($996 at Todd Snyder) – Don’t overlook linen suits; they’re deceptively cool. J.Crew Short-sleeve camp-collar shirt (Now 30% Off, $68 at J.Crew) – A minimal approach can work, especially in warmer climates.
Beyond the basics
Casatlantic El Jadida Linen Trousers ($270 at casatlantic.com – Esquire’s commerce editor, Luke Guillory, rates these highly. Banana Republic Linen Long-Sleeve Resort Shirt ($100 at Banana Republic) – This shirt wears like a light jacket and adds a touch of refined ease. Buck Mason Big Chino ($248 at Buck Mason) – The wide leg and breathable fabric make these a summer office staple. Abercrombie Tailored Linen-Blend Relaxed Straight Trouser ($85 at Abercrombie) – A linen-blend offers a bit more structure than pure linen.
The bottom line
Forget the notion of stuffy, formal office attire. A well-chosen linen shirt or trousers, paired with a few smart accessories, is all you need to stay cool, comfortable, and – crucially – looking sharp. It's time to ditch the heavy fabrics and embrace a lighter, more breathable approach to your workday wardrobe.