How to Style your Summer Workwear: Tips for Day and Night Looks

Office outfit essentials for Hong Kong summers…

Dressing for Hong Kong summers is hard at the best of times. Throw in the fact that you’re also trying to look work-appropriate whilst managing the kiddos and the task only gets trickier.

Some of us spend five out of seven days in office attire, so it seems fitting that our wardrobe should be tailored (pun intended) accordingly. No one needs the extra hassle of frantically rummaging through a closet on a Monday morning – we’ve been there one too many times! So, if you’re looking to curate a summer office wardrobe, we’re here to help you get started with three simple tips and a little shopping inspiration…

Read more: How to Style Pastels: Day and Night Fashion Trends

 1. The material matters

When it comes to outfits you’re going to be wearing for majority of the day, always prioritise the fabric (and feeling!) over colour and style. Trends will vary, but if it doesn’t sit right, you’ll never feel comfortable or confident. Whenever possible, opt for natural, breathable fibres such as cotton, linen, or silk. The only thing to watch is that natural materials are notorious for creasing easily, so your morning ironing is often immaterial by the end of the day.

 2. Careful with the cut

A good cut is critical when it’s 95% humidity outside. Loose-fitted clothes are best for obvious reasons. Shy away from items that cling (especially synthetics) or opt for sleeveless blouses and lined dresses to avoid any (ahem) sheerness. Club Monaco stocks a range of lush styles, H&M’s conscious line has some simple cotton budget-friendly options, and Grana is a go-to for silk office staples.

 3. Relax a little

Depending on how corporate you’re required to dress for work, feel free to experiment on the casual side. Pair cotton summer dresses with pastel blazers and formal pointed-toe heels for a fun, feminine feel. Or, style airy culottes with a simple shirt and some statement jewellery for a cool, casual ensemble. We’ve chosen these slim silk blend trousers from Vince to take you straight out of the office to an evening event…

Read more: Wardrobe Editing and Fashion Consultancy with Make My Wardrobe Work

Your daytime look:  

Shirt from Theory
100% silk? Tick! Navy and white is a classic colour combination that looks polished, professional and put together, no matter what the season is.

Necklace from J.Crew
With elegant glass stones and a dainty ribbon tie, this necklace is a quick way to elevate your office look. An ideal item to transform simple round-neck tees, or update easy summer slip dresses.

Watch from Cluse
This watch pairs a leather strap with a marble face to bring a bit of a modern edge to your everyday gear. In a versatile nude, you can wear it through the workweek before waltzing your way into the weekend!

Bag from Max Mara
Summer is a time for bright bags and this colour block tote is definitely on our wish list. The additional sling strap is handy for when you’re running round town with the kids in tow.

Shoes from Velvet (via Zalora)
Looking fancy in flats has never been easier. Pointed-toe shoes are said to elongate the frame and automatically add pep in your step.

Your evening look:

Top from Dorothy Perkins (via Zalora)
Tuck a matching block-coloured blouse into high-waisted trousers to easily create the illusion of a jumpsuit. This comfortable (and practical) alternative offers a laidback approach that still looks styled and chic. Watch out for different shades of the same colour (even black has variations!). 

Earrings from J.Crew
Pair dark colours with bright, bold accessories. J.Crew’s Sunshine Crystal Earrings have golden honey stones that are sure to add a little warmth to your day.

Bracelet from Stephanie Kantis (via Neiman Marcus)
Summer is a great excuse to wear more gold, and this “Plank” cuff bracelet is an easy one to slip on as you slip out of the office.

Clutch from Jimmy Choo (via Nordstom)
Switch your overflowing tote for an only-essentials clutch to make any daytime look more evening appropriate. Though it may not fit all your little one’s luggage, this streamlined patent leather clutch will take you from a work do to a wedding!

Heels from Aquazzura (via Neiman Marcus)
Suede pumps are the perfect way to walk right through the seasons. With a lightly padded insole to compensate for the heel height, it’s worth keeping these beauties under your office desk for a quick, after-work upgrade.

Here’s to an easy, breezy (wishful thinking in 30 degrees) work wear look…