Summer Time Wardrobe Taboos

When the weather heats up outside, it is still important to maintain a cool and professional summer style inside the office. You may be ready to don your shorts and flip-flops on weekends, but these pieces should never make an appearance in the workplace. Consider the following work wardrobe taboos when dressing during the summer.

Work-Appropriate Shirts, Tops and Dresses

Even if T-shirts are allowed on casual Fridays, avoid any with messages that are offensive, political or otherwise controversial. Sheer tops are always inappropriate, and anything that shows your midriff or reveals too much cleavage is a big no-no. While sleeveless blouses may be acceptable in some office environments, avoid ever wearing one to an interview. Sundresses may be part of your summer style for an outdoor wedding or trip to the beach, but do not include them in your office wardrobe.

Wearing Shorts, Skirts and Pants to the Office

While shorts may be acceptable for some jobs, and even be part of a uniform, never wear them to an interview. Women should opt for modest and professional pencil or knee-length skirts. Never wear low-rise pants that show too much skin.

Choosing Footwear for Summer

Flip-flops should never be part of your summer style at the office. Men should stick to classic dress shoes, and women can never go wrong with a pair of close-toed pumps for work.

Addressing the Gray Areas

Become familiar with the dress code in your office, and err on the side of caution when you are unsure about whether an outfit or piece is acceptable for the workplace. If you are a supervisor or manager, it is your responsibility to communicate the dress code clearly to your employees and address situations when subordinates wear inappropriate clothing. Be specific in your communication to employees, as some clothing options, such as capri pants or open-toed shoes, may be fine in one office and frowned upon in another.

Add Summer Style To Your Everyday Attire

You can never go wrong with a classic suit or blazer and skirt combination, but it is also possible to inject a touch of summer style into your go-to professional wardrobe. Men can add a pocket square or tie for a pop of color, and women can opt for a bright dress shirt or colorful scarf. Popular summer colors include Tiffany blue, canary yellow, geranium pink, poppy red and hyacinth.

Effects of Inappropriate Summer Style Choices

Wearing inappropriate clothing to the office leads co-workers and managers to focus more on your outfit than your message and performance. Dressing provocatively or too casually decreases your credibility and may cause others in the workplace to question your job skills or potential for advancement. Wearing inappropriate clothing to an interview may cost you the job.

While the summer heat only lasts a few months, your reputation in the workplace carries on throughout your time with the company. Avoid these work wardrobe taboos to maintain your professional presence in the office while still showing off your summer style.

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