Summer Work Attire

1. Truck Jeans Essential Skinny {Alloy}. My boss wore a pair of white skinny jeans a few days ago and I realized that I need to get a pair of these for my spring/summer wardrobe. Summer is all about light colors and what’s lighter than white? White jeans are great to wear when it’s not quite hot enough to wear skirts or shorts, but definitely don’t wear them on rainy days; you don’t want to get mud on them!

2. Solid Layered Cowl Neck {Charlotte Russe}. I’ve really gotten into cowl necks lately; I think the “cowl” part just adds a little extra something to an outfit. They also fit well and can be worn casually or dressy.

3. Chimbley Sweep Shorts {ModCloth}. Simple and not too short, these are perfect for those crazy hot days when you just can’t justify wearing pants or tights and a skirt.

4. Winnie Pleat-Back Tunic {Urban Outfitters}. Boyfriend-style Button-ups are a must-have for every working woman’s wardrobe. They’re great because they can be worn dressy or casual, and I love the pleats on the back of this one. The description reads, “business in the front, party in the back.” It’s also available in mauve {which I think looks more lavender}.

5. Susina Crochet Trim Cardigan {Nordstrom}. I love wearing cardigans year-round, but you can’t always wear your winter favorites in the summer. This cardigan is cute, classy, and light. The crocheted lace makes it romantic and a nice addition to your outfit if you’re wearing a white shirt or tank top underneath.

6. Black Flats & White Sandals {Shoes.com}. If you don’t already have a pair of simplistic black flats and semi-dressy white sandals, hit your favorite shoe store now! These are another must-have, especially since you’ll want to wear them outside of work as well. The black flats shown are Hot Kiss Women’s Hours and the white sandals are Carlos by Carlos Santana Women’s Shimmer. Though I found these both at Shoes.com, I do the majority of my shoe-shopping at Marshalls and TJ Maxx.

7. Tank Tops/Camis {Old Navy}. Tank tops are a summer essential — yes, even for work! I love grabbing a few from Old Navy; their V-Neck Layering Camis and Lace-Trim Camis are my favorites. Wear them underneath a light cardigan or button-up shirt for a more professional look.

Of course, it’s important to know your job’s dress code. You may not have a manual that explicitly says there is one, but there’s always a dress code. Ask your boss or co-worker if you have questions about what you can wear. Also keep in mind that you don’t have to spring for big name-brand clothing just to look great in the office. As I mentioned with the shoes, I find a lot of my clothes at Marshalls and TJ Maxx, too, as well as at consignment shops like Peonies and Uptown Consignment. Now go ahead and work it, girl! :)