Summer Semi-Professional

Posted on July 25th, 2016

As I’ve mentioned in other posts, the attire vibe at my office isn’t formal, but definitely necessitates looking put together.  In the summer, I rely heavily on a go-to uniform to achieve that balance while staying comfortable.  It’s a very simple 4-part formula: dress + cardigan + statement necklace + wedges/heels.  Out the door and ready to conquer the world!  Or at least provide actionable insights to support marketing optimizations.

Dress // Cardigan // Necklace (similar) // Shoes

I have dresses from a myriad of retailers at different price points, but I find that J. Crew Factory is pretty reliably a good source of versatile dresses that last with very reasonable price tags.  I have a version of this wool/flannel dress that I’ve been wearing basically every month of the year for several years, and it is in fantastic condition.  The dress I’m wearing in this post is a very similar silhouette, but with an even more comfortable thick cotton fabric.

I like the look of big, cozy cardigans over dresses in the spring and fall, but in the summer (especially where most of you live!) these little 3/4-sleeve numbers suffice.  I have this cardigan in five colors, although it’s definitely a fitted cut, so size up if you want a little breathing room.

This particular necklace I got lucky and scored during a Kate Spade surprise sale, and I have found myself reaching for pale pink necklaces second only to pearls this spring and summer.  Other good options here, here, here, here, and here!  These blush accessories go well with so much– black, navy, green, burgundy, ivory… Pantone definitely got it right.  Burgundy + blush is a newer color combo for me, but I plan on taking it straight into fall.

And don’t miss this watch in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!  I loved my gold Kate Spade watch and much of my jewelry is yellow gold, but now that my engagement ring and (soon!) wedding band are white gold, it’s awesome to have one watch I can wear with everything that ties all metals together.  It even has hints of rose gold, so all your bases are covered.

Where do you look for wear-to-work clothes?  What’s your summer office style?

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