Summer Workplace Attire - The Good and The Ugly

Summer is in full swing and with it comes a more casual workplace. During the warmer months, it's tempting to relax your dress standards and opt for cooler, more casual outfits. It's a great idea and one that can help fight the summer blues of feeling stuck in the office. The problem is that not everyone at the office has good taste and summer casual can go horribly wrong.



Before deciding how you should dress for the warmer weather, you have to think about your company's culture. Do you work in a business casual office or a bank? If you aren't sure, you can take a clue from your boss and other managers at your office. If they have put away their suits and have begun wearing khakis and polo shirts, it's safe to assume that you can too.



Also, think about what your job duties are. Are you in a position where you frequently interact with the public or have to call on other businesses? If you work mainly behind the scenes, your wardrobe choices aren't as likely to raise eyebrows as they would if you were a salesperson. The main thing to keep in mind is that no matter what your position, you always want to look professional.



Although dress codes vary from one workplace to another, there are still a few fashion no-no's that are pretty much universal. Almost every workplace frowns on wearing these things:

 

• Flip-flops
• Tank tops or sleeveless shirts
• Short skirts
• Halter tops
• Overly revealing attire
•  

Of course, flip-flops are always a no, women can opt to wear nice sandals. Also, if you want to be able to leave work and have a more casual look, you can pair up a tank top with a jacket and be ready for summer fun as soon as you leave the office.



The most important thing about summer casual is to not dress for the beach. If any part of your outfit is something you would wear to the beach, then it's probably not a good idea to wear it to work. We all have horror stories about someone in our office showing up in swim trunks or tank tops and flip-flops. Don't be that person.



What are some of the worst summer office outfits you've seen? Please share your thoughts in the comments.