Workwear Woes: Can Shorts, Sandals & Strappy Tops Beat the Heat at Office?

As summer temperatures rise, many people find themselves wondering what is appropriate to wear to work. The heat can make the daily commute and office environment uncomfortable, so it is natural to want to wear cooler clothing like shorts, strappy tops, and sandals. However, there is often debate about whether these items are too casual or unprofessional for the workplace. Some offices have strict dress codes, while others are more relaxed, but the question remains: how can you stay comfortable without breaking the rules or looking out of place?

Shorts are a common choice for both men and women during hot weather. Conor, who works in the media industry, regularly wears shorts to the office when it is warm. He believes that comfort is important as long as you can do your job well. A recent survey by Ipsos found that most adults think it is acceptable for both men and women to wear shorts to work in hot weather. However, not all shorts are suitable for the office. Fashion designer Amanda Wakeley says that if you have to ask yourself if your shorts are too short, they probably are. She recommends choosing tailored, longer shorts and pairing them with a crisp shirt or a lightweight blazer. Stylist Clare Chambers agrees, suggesting that shorts should reach around the kneecap and that men should choose chino-style shorts with an untucked shirt or T-shirt.

Sandals are another popular summer choice, but they can be tricky. Flip-flops are usually not allowed in most offices because they look too casual and are associated with leisure time rather than work. Instead, woven flats or refined leather sandals are better options, as they are breathable but still look neat and professional. According to the Ipsos survey, most people think flip-flops are not acceptable for men or women in the workplace. However, clean and well-maintained leather sandals can be fine in many offices. It is important to make sure your sandals look like part of a thoughtful outfit, not something you would wear to the pool. Wearing socks with sandals has become a trend, but it can look very casual and might not give you the professional image you want.

Strappy tops and tank tops are also debated in the workplace. The Ipsos survey found that 40 percent of adults think tank tops are acceptable for women at work, but only 24 percent think the same for men. Some workplaces have rules about showing shoulders or tattoos. Teacher Natasia remembers being told to cover up her arms and tattoos during the summer at her previous school. Fashion experts say that a well-cut camisole or strappy top can work if you wear it under a light jacket or overshirt. On its own, it might look too informal. Clare Chambers suggests wearing a strapless bra with strappy tops and choosing thicker straps if you are unsure about the dress code. Satin camisoles can look more polished than basic cotton vests, but bandeau tops are not recommended for work because they can make you look uncomfortable.

Dressing for the heat at work does not mean you have to wear less. Instead, you should choose your clothes carefully. Both Amanda Wakeley and Clare Chambers say you can keep your personal style while following the office dress code. They recommend picking light, breathable fabrics and making sure your clothes are clean and tidy.

Employers are allowed to set rules about what you can wear at work, especially for safety, branding, or maintaining a professional image. Employment lawyer Sarah Tahamtani says that dress codes should be reasonable and fair. During extreme heat, employers should think about whether their rules are still practical and if they can be more flexible. They also need to consider employees with disabilities or medical conditions that could be made worse by high temperatures. If you think a dress code is unfair or not applied equally, you should talk to your manager or human resources and explain how it affects your comfort or ability to work safely.

As summers get hotter, it is important for both employers and employees to find a balance between comfort and professionalism. By choosing the right clothes and communicating openly, you can stay cool and look appropriate at work.