For many, the idea of having to step out of the office into the unforgivable heat fills them with a sense of dread. After all, what can be worse than walking under the scorching sun in a stifling long-sleeved button-up shirt and slacks? Flat and stringy hair, sticky skin and unsightly underarm sweat stains are just some of the undesirable consequences of that 10 minutes stroll outside the office.
Coupled with the constant humidity, it’s no surprise why most of us resort to packed lunches or food delivery services so that we don’t have to leave the comfort of our air-conditioned office. And when we have no choice but to do so, we strategically plan our walking routes to minimise the amount of time that we come into contact with the glaring sun.
Sadly, despite all of our preparations, we often find ourselves drenched in sweat. Whenever we return to the office after lunch, we are dishevelled and exhausted from the sweltering heat.
As such, we lament about how if we had our way, we would be constantly decked out in athletic gear, tank tops and shorts 24/7. Work dress codes would be a thing of the past, with priority placed on comfort instead. Unfortunately, this couldn’t be further away from reality. We not only have to put up with the unbearable heat outdoors but deal with the frigid air conditioning temperatures inside the office as well, thus making the selection of a work appropriate outfit a challenge. Not to mention the numerous work attire related rules that we have to conform to.
Well, if you are currently experiencing such a fashion dilemma, fret not as there are ways to dress comfortably for the heat while still adhering to the office dress code policies. With that in mind, here are 4 cooling yet work appropriate clothing to rock as below.
Beat The Heat With These Trendy Yet Work Appropriate Outfits
As the dress code varies according to your workplace and job scope, it’s best to pay attention to the way your colleagues dress so that you can have a better idea of what is considered acceptable and what isn’t. This will help you to select a suitable work outfit that will fit well with your office culture. For instance, if you notice that the majority of your co-workers tend to go for pencil skirts and form-fitting blazers, it would be wise to pick out clothes that are similar to those.
But of course, that doesn’t mean that you can’t add a personal flair of your own. Show off your enthusiasm for fashion by opting for a pencil skirt with a bold print or vibrant colour. Asides from that, when choosing work clothes, you also need to factor in your body shape. Steer clear of outfits that accentuate any of your problem areas such as your flabby midriff, chunky arms or darkened armpits. The key is to select clothes that you feel at ease with but still look polished.
In addition, when it comes to dealing with hot weather, the type of fabric also matters. Go for cotton, silk and linen based clothing that will allow for your skin to breathe and minimise the probability of you sweating buckets when walking outdoors. At the same time, it also means that you don’t have to put on copious amounts of antiperspirant or deodorant to counteract any body odour from all the perspiring. Due to certain synthetic ingredients, preservatives and fragrances in some deodorants and antiperspirants, using too much frequently can result in various issues such as an increased risk of developing breast cancer and unflattering discoloured underarms.
To further enhance the cooling effect of your work clothes, opt for light-coloured outfits that tend to absorb less heat. In light of that, let us share with you heat-friendly apparel to try:
Bring On The Midi Skirts
Effortlessly chic yet work appropriate, midi skirts are a great way to remain cool as a cucumber while channelling your inner fashionista. Universally flattering for many body shapes, midi skirts usually comes in a variety of designs that end slightly below the knees. For a feminine and classy look that will tide you through the sizzling heat, opt for a short-sleeved blouse and high waisted chiffon pleated midi skirt.
Exhibit Some Flair With Flared Pants
Keep things light and airy with a pair of long, flared pants. Due to its wide leg and cut, flared pants are an excellent way to beat the heat but still look put together. Plus, you get to avoid the uncomfortable sensation of it being plastered to your body after a sweat-inducing walk outside the office. Pair it with a classic button-down and heels for the effect of an elongated bodyline.
Show Off Your Toned Arms With A Long Tailored Waistcoat
What better way to eliminate the possibility of unsightly underarm sweat stains and the need to put on lots of deodorant or antiperspirant than putting on a long-tailored waistcoat along with a silk camisole and slim cut trousers? It’s also a wonderful opportunity to show off your toned arms and simultaneously convey an air of elegance. If you are self-conscious about your flabby arms or unattractive darkened underarm skin, swap out your camisole with a thin, long-sleeved cotton shirt.
Amp Up Your Shirtdress With Accessories
Contrary to perception, a shirtdress can be office appropriate as long as it is matched with the right accessories and cuts off slightly above the knees. Pair it with a stylish belt to accentuate your waist and complete the look with nude pumps. Also, to stay cool, go for shirtdresses that are made of linen or cotton.