I may spend most days in the office, but putting together a cute summer work outfit isn't something that comes easily to me. And don't even get me started on the struggle of getting dressed in hot weather, either. That's why I'm turning to two of my favorite affordable retailers—Zara and H&M—to refresh my work wardrobe with rich-looking finds that I can buy on a budget.
I'm all about looking cool while staying cool this summer. That means I'm prioritizing breezy, on-trend finds like linen separates, easy-to-style basics, and summery dresses. What's more, I'm looking to add a few new pairs of shoes to my workwear mix, like retro sneakers and elegant slingback heels. Thankfully, I only need to head to Zara and H&M for everything I need to build a chic minimalist capsule wardrobe.
Keep scrolling for my complete summer workwear curation. I searched high and low for must-have items from both retailers, like linen pants, summer shoes, polished tops, and more. Better yet, my finds are $100 and under, making them truly affordable wardrobe refreshes.
This knit T-shirt is an easy way to incorporate trendy colors into your workwear wardrobe.
When you're bored with your basic button-downs, turn to this cool kimono-inspired top.
I have these pants and they make even the most basic of tops look polished.
Wrinkled-looking fabrics are the surprising summer trend I'm loving.
Elevated linen pants like this can easily be dressed up for the office or dressed down for the weekend.
Give anything a polo neckline and it instantly becomes office-ready.
We all need a pair of work sneakers, and this comfortable and on-trend pair does the trick.
I'm still not over the barrel-leg denim trend, so I'm grabbing a pair in white for the office.
Fashion girls have been obsessing over polka dots—if you want to try out the print, this top can be worn multiple different ways.
For a summery take on a basic white top, turn to this pretty lacy pick.
The buckle on these heels give them even more of a sophisticated feel.
This linen shirtdress is sure to keep you cool and stylish on the hottest of summer days.
A vest top like this says "I mean business."
This is the coolest denim skirt I've seen in a while.
Even on the most sweltering of days, you'll cool with these linen Bermuda shorts in your rotation.
I have this easy-going top in blush pink, but now I'm considering picking it up in classic white because I love it so much.
Keep this summer sweater at your desk to battle the harsh office A.C.
Not only will you be comfortable in this pick, but you can run the gamut with accessorizing.
This pretty dress makes for an easy one-and-done outfit for when you don't know what to wear.
The gold buttons and classic colorway make this top look so much more expensive than its $40 price tag.
A slip skirt is a staple for any minimalist. For summer, consider a white version.
This lightweight blazer will add instant polish to any look.
This dress fits the definition of day-to-night dressing to a T.
Prepare to wear this linen button down a thousand different ways over the course of the summer.
This pencil skirt would look so cool paired with a simple white T-shirt and slingback heels.
This dress has a classic silhouette that can be worn year after year, plus the camel shade is so rich-looking.
Swap out your go-to trousers for this breezier version, which are just as polished for the office with belt loops and pleats.
Fisherman sandals are fashion girls' number one choice of footwear this season.
Lean into summer's boho fashion trend with this pretty floral top.
Just imagine how pretty this skirt would look paired with a ribbed tank top and sandals.
