Summer dress code: Clothing tips for hot days at the office

Summer brings joy: lots of sunshine, delicious ice cream and numerous opportunities to enjoy the warm weather to the fullest. But for those of us who work in the office, summer also raises a seemingly difficult question: How do we dress appropriately in a professional environment when the temperatures rise?

Shirts, shorts and sandals? The good news is that many industries adapt and relax their dress codes in summer. But what does that mean exactly? Shorts instead of trousers? Sandals instead of closed shoes? Light dresses and shirts with short sleeves? The answer always depends on the work environment and the culture of the company in question. If you are unsure, don't be afraid to ask. A short conversation with your supervisors or colleagues can be helpful to understand what is appropriate and what is not. Or take a look at the dress code if your company has one.

Summer wardrobe: tips and tricks

For hot days, here are some tips and tricks on how to dress without overheating and still look professional.

Material: When choosing materials, natural fibres such as cotton, linen and silk are highly recommended. They are breathable and help you keep cool.

Colours: Dark colours absorb more heat than light ones. Therefore, light colours, especially white, are a good choice for the hot summer.

Layering: Layer your clothes. Wear a light shirt or blouse under your blazer. This way you can take off the blazer when it gets too hot without breaking the dress code.

Dealing with heat stress in formal wear

In some industries, especially the formal or conservative ones, it can be difficult to adapt the dress code in summer. But don't worry, there are ways to manage heat stress here too.

Fit: Pay attention to the fit of your clothes. Clothes that are too tight can be uncomfortable and cause you to get too warm. Instead, choose clothes that are a little looser fitting.

Drink: Don't forget to drink plenty of water. This will help your body cope with the heat.

Breaks: Take breaks to get some fresh air and cool down.

For more valuable tips when it's hot in the office, read our article: 36 degrees in the office (and it's still getting hotter): What to do?

In summary, summer does bring its challenges, especially when it comes to choosing the right work clothes. However, with a little planning and customisation, you can look cool and professional even in high temperatures.