Credit: Photo by Christian Vierig/Getty Images
Stylist Loves
These 10 dresses are perfect to wear to work in this warm weather
By Zoe Anastasiou &Lauren Cunningham
10 months ago
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3 min read
With lightweight linen midis and chic smart dresses in no short supply, this is what we’ll be wearing to the office now the sun is shining.
Dressing for the office when the weather warms up can feel like a losing battle, one where you’re cautiously toeing the line between professional attire and ensuring you don’t melt on your humid commute. However, if any item can save the day it will undoubtedly be found among a small selection of summer work dresses.
Whether created in cotton, linen or a breathable blend, relaxed dresses are a chic go-to during the summer months, ensuring minimal effort but maximum style. When it comes to office-appropriate options, midi-length styles are a failsafe, while a longer mini might also work. Plus, collared options further emphasise that formal feel to offer a shirt-like design.
Ultimately, it’s all about picking a dress that suits your work environment, feels comfortable and offers breathability. Need some help keeping cool during the heat? Look no further than the 10 dresses below.
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Aligne Leah linen mini dress
Home to chic co-ords and great trousers, Aligne adds a fresh fashion-forward spin to workwear basics. Looking like a longline waistcoat cut just above the knee, the high-neck button-up mini even has pockets to make it more practical.
Cos A-line linen maxi dress
Some of us prefer to stick to all-black or neutral outfits for the office and there are plenty of summer dresses in those shades as well. This linen Cos option may be best for those with more relaxed dress codes, although the maxi length and high neck line make it a touch more modest.
Live Unlimited paisley maxi shift dress
Live Unlimited specialise in chic curve clothing for all kinds of occasions and it’s this maxi dress that has caught our eye. Simple in shape with a classic shift style yet elevated in design, it’ll make you look instantly put together but still cool and comfy.
Jigsaw cotton stitch pleat dress
Cotton is one of the best fabrics to wear in warmer weather as it lets your body breathe, keeping you both cool and comfy. Combine that with this classic shirt-like cut and you’ll have a warm weather staple for all occasions.
Whistles spun triangle dress
Bright and bold patterns are a great way to welcome in the warmer weather. With an abstract blue and white design, it’s immediately eye-catching while the simple shift style is formal enough to wear to the office.
The Somerset maxi dress shirt dress edition
Maxi dresses bring a floaty feel that’s perfect for the warmer weather and this 100% cotton maxi is one of our favourites – complete with a formal fitting collar, gathered waist and tiered skirt.
Shop The Somerset maxi dress shirt dress edition at Anthropologie, £148
M&S linen-rich knee-length shift dress
A simple shift dress is one of the most versatile pieces in any wardrobe. Whether worn alone or over (or under) a chic white shirt, it’ll become the building block for many an outfit. Plus it’s long enough to see you breeze through the office without a worry.
Gap linen-blend square-neck midi dress
While you may know Gap for its everyday basics and great jean selection, the brand excels when it comes to well-made dresses. Case in point: this square neck linen-blend midi that’s simple yet chic.
Arket lyocell-linen maxi dress
This long-sleeved navy option will work for the beach as well as the boardroom.
Pink Lemons Delilah maxi dress in blue and gold print
If it’s pretty patterns you’re after, take a look at the Pink Lemons boutique. This baby blue floral find will see you through the sunny season with ease.
Shop Pink Lemons Delilah maxi dress in blue and gold print, £155
Images: Getty; courtesy of brands
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