Work wardrobe: How to dress for colder temperatures fashionably
As you may have noticed, we have officially arrived at that semi-awkward, in-between stage where it’s not really summer and not really fall and for all you know today could be eighty degrees and tomorrow it could drop to sixty. And while that’s confusing for a number of reasons, the worst part is figuring out how to dress for such unpredictable weather.
While the last thing you want to do when getting dressed for your morning meeting is consider the weather, it’s a burden we all have to face. So to help you get through, Your Coffee Break has created the ultimate guide to dressing fabulously for work, even when the weather is less than stellar.
1. Have the right tools: The first step to dressing for extreme temperatures is knowing just exactly what those extreme temperatures are. Whether you have a weather app built into your iPhone or a website you check every morning, figure out a reliable source and check it daily. You want to know if there’s a rainstorm coming your way at 6 p.m. or if there will be a particularly humid morning (you’ve got to be prepared with that frizz spray). I’ve found the built in weather app on my phone is almost always correct and extremely convenient.
2. Layering: The absolute easiest way to dress fashionably for work in the midst of crazy weather is to layer. No matter what the temperature is outside or inside your office—because we all know office buildings love to crank the A/C—layering can help you be fashionable and comfortable. If you’re wearing a dress or pencil skirt, consider throwing on some opaque tights. They’ll keep you warm and office appropriate, as long as you stick with neutral colors. Another great option for cold days is a collared shirt, a crisp sweater pulled over top and a pair of cigarette pants. As long as your layers look polished, and not bulky, you should be good to go when it comes to dressing for the office.
3. Pick the right fabric: On the other hand, if the weather is going to be extremely hot, it’s important to be cognizant of the types of fabrics you’re choosing. Avoid clothes that show sweat easily or that stick to your body. Opt for a swingy, cotton blouse tucked into a flowy, midi skirt with closed-toe sandals. The breathable fabrics will help you stay cool in the heat, and the shoes will look breezy while still being appropriate. Just make sure you’re wearing a modest heel and the clothes aren’t too sheer. Put a cardigan in your bag in case your office gets a little chilly and you’ll be sure to stay fresh and comfortable throughout the day.
4. Stock your desk: This may sound a little silly, but there’s no shame in leaving some accessories at your desk to prepare for a weather emergency. A pair of sweater tights (yes they exist, and they’re incredible) is the perfect thing to tuck into your desk for when it’s unexpectedly freezing, and tights go with almost any dress or skirt. Also consider storing a matte powder and some blotting sheets at your desk. While it’s important to dress the part, you also want to put your best face forward and that can be hard to do when the weather is messing with your makeup.
No matter if you’re dealing with a blazing hot summer afternoon or a chilly winter morning, there’s no reason that should stop you from showing up to work looking professional and stylish. With some quick tweaks to your already wonderful wardrobe, you’ll be dressing perfectly for the office and the weather in no time.
