3 Summer Outfit Formulas for Staying Chic in the Heat

Round out your workwear wardrobe with tailored separates, breezy shirtdresses, and commute-friendly bottoms.

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Nikki Ogunnaike and Nicole Martine Chapoteau
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There’s a lot of chatter on TikTok about what we’re wearing to work these days—specifically, summer-appropriate office outfit ideas. I have to say, friends, I’m nervous about the advice that’s being given. I’m not saying listening to TikTok WILL get you sent to HR…but I am saying it will leave you freezing (yes the AC is out of control, no you’re not losing it) and honestly, just plain uncomfortable! Here are some of my favorite outfit suggestions that will last you through the season.

Nikki Ogunnaike at Fashion Week

Editor-in-chief Nikki Ogunnaike.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Summer Tailoring

Lean into lightweight separates to make this one work. If your office is more conservative, a suit jacket will suffice. If it’s more creative, you can have fun with what’s considered “tailoring,” like a vest, long shorts, and a cotton poplin or linen button-down.

Shirtdresses

Low lift, high impact—what’s not to love? I generally go for one that hits right above the knee and switch out the cotton belt for a leather one to add some polish. Sleeves will also keep you warm in the aforementioned freezing office.

Commute-Friendly Skirts and Pants

There is very little I hate more than the backs of my thighs touching the subway seat on my daily commute. Consider it an ick, as the kids say. And it’s even worse on sticky summer days. Hence my affinity for knee- or midi-length skirts and light-weight cropped pants.

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Nikki Ogunnaike
Nikki Ogunnaike
Editor-in-Chief

Nikki Ogunnaike is the Editor in Chief of Marie Claire US. She has previously held roles at Harper's Bazaar, GQ, ELLE, Glamour, InStyle, and Vanity Fair. She authors the popular Marie Claire newsletter Self Checkout. You may also recognize Nikki from her time as the host of Snapchat’s Online, IRL and IGTV's The Run Through.

Based in Brooklyn, New York, in her free time Nikki enjoys running half marathons, learning about wine, and watching reality TV without an ounce of shame. You can follow her at @nikkiogun.