From commute-friendly frocks to post-work attire, these summer dresses are ideal for all office occasions.
Summer is just around the corner, and while choosing holiday outfits is a fun afternoon activity, selecting outfits to beat the heat at the office is a whole other beast.
On the one hand, you might be in for a hot, sweaty commute, but on the other, you’re likely to be sat in a chilly, air-conditioned office for the rest of the day.
Here, we reveal our top picks to ensure you look professional while staying cool on the blistering streets.
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Summer office dresses under £50
New Look Black Cotton Puff Sleeve Midi Dress
Office dress codes differ greatly, but some dictate dresses and skirts should fall below the knee or shoulders should be covered. This dress satisfies those requirements.
The pure cotton material ensures a breathable fit, making it ideal for long journeys on public transport or running around the city on a hot day. It can also be worn to casual post-work plans or on holiday — the perfect addition to your wardrobe.
Buy now for £29.99 from New Look
M&S Cotton Blend Gingham Dropped Waist Midi Dress
For work-appropriate outfits that can take you to after-work plans, M&S is a go-to.
If you grew up in the UK, gingham might be reminiscent of summer school uniforms, but it’s also a style that feels somewhat timeless.
This gorgeous cotton-blend dress has an oversized collar and a drop waist that adds shape and dimension. It’s easily paired with comfy shoes and your work tote or dressed up with sandals and a shoulder bag for the weekend or summer holidays.
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Primark Cotton Shirred Tiered Midi Dress
Cotton is a fantastic fabric to wear in the summer: it’s breathable and helps keep you cool.
While this sleeveless dress might not be appropriate for all offices, it can easily be paired with a thin shirt or cardigan to keep your shoulders covered and protect you from the air-con chill.
M&S Ruched Maxi Waisted Dress with Linen
A busy day at the office can involve long stretches of sitting at your desk, so comfort is key.
This dress has a drop shoulder and an adjustable waist — you might have it loose and flowing when sitting at your desk, then tighter and cinched when heading out for after-work drinks.
H&M Linen-Blend Shirt Dress
A linen shirt dress looks the part in most office environments. When properly ironed, and paired with a leather belt and leather flats or pumps, it’ll look clean and professional.
This one has drop shoulders (look for these if you’re worried about sweat patches) and elbow-length sleeves and is available in blue, black and cream-striped options. The material is a cotton and linen blend, meaning it’s still cooling but not as prone to creasing as 100% linen.
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Dorothy Perkins Knot Detail Stripe T-shirt Dress
While this choice might not be appropriate for offices with more corporate dress codes, it’s an ideal option for a more casual style on a sweltering hot day. It’s as close as you can get to wearing a big T-shirt and still looking well put together.
Pair it with a pair of trainers or ballet flats and carry a denim jacket or light cardigan to brave the office air-con.
Buy now for £29 from Dorothy Perkins
Cider V-Neck Pleated Knotted A-Line Dress
This on-trend butter maxi dress has a v-neck and a pleated waist, making it look smart, tailored and professional. The yellow colour, meanwhile, will add an extra touch of sunshine to the office.
M&S Pure Cotton Striped Scoop Neck Midi Waisted Dress
When the weather is nearing 30C, you might find yourself reaching for clothes that are as loose as possible.
The puff sleeve and flowy skirt on this dress means you can rely on some air circulating to cool you down, while the elasticated cinched waist adds texture and striking style.
