Ugh - hot and sweaty, but still want to look polished and professional

Amy in NC

I've been so busy with work, I haven't had a chance to post or even peruse the boards. So I apologize if this has already been discussed:
I started a new job in nursing administration in February. I invested in a good coat, some great shoes, and some quality work clothes: light wool trousers and skirts, some blouses and a few ponte dresses - and the requisite alterations to make them fit well. At the time, my investment really helped me to get into the work mode.
Fast-forward a few months and while my shoes still work, it's too hot for just about everything else. Can y'all advise me what to wear when it's hot out but you still want to look put together? What are some summertime "investment" pieces? Links appreciated!

11 years ago

General

10 replies

Latest reply was from ironkurtin

lyn*

(website)

Veteran

I don't think this really helps you out, but the nursing admin I've seen usually come to work in runners and track pants and just change before going to the office in A/C and change again before going home.

11 years ago

Anonymous

Summer is tough but dresses are probably your best choice, something not bare or too short. Debbie and I found some Eileen Fisher dresses on sale last summer that are my staples. JJill has some that are similar for less if you are not too tiny for them.

http://www.jjill.com/jjillonli.....&sk=M

http://www.eileenfisher.com/Ei.....h+Back+VNe

11 years ago

Anonymous

I don't know that they are investment pieces but I am considering sewing some kimono style jackets to add some interest to outfits. Our summers are incredibly humid and I work in a business casual environment.

I have been trying dresses with light cardigans for my 'third piece'

11 years ago

Caro in Oz

Veteran

Agreeing with the others. I'm so not a dress person but since adding dresses to my summer wardrobe I've been much happier in the heat

11 years ago

DeeCee

Active Member

I wear sheath/shift dresses or cotton print pencil skirts with knit shells or sleeveless blouses. I add a jacket or cardi for the AC office environ.

11 years ago

Amy in NC

Active Member

I think y'all are right - I need to invest in more dresses. When I'm NOT at work, I wear lots of knit dresses. But I've always been "team separates" for work items because of the different ensemble options. The other complication is that I have to wear hosiery and close-toed shoes, making a lot of casual dresses look strange when paired with the requisite footwear. Cotton jersey is a no-go. I have a few options coming to me from Nordys and Ann Taylor. Thanks for the advice, y'all!

11 years ago

Gigi

Veteran

Amy, one thing that I have found is that if I get a dress or skirt with some movement in it, that really helps the heat factor. For me, a longer skirt (or dress) that moves around as you walk is even cooler for me than a shorter skirt with no movement.

Linen is wonderful for its breathability, but you'll have to be prepared for ironing, and it will wrinkle if you're not careful. But maybe linen would look too casual paired with your shoes.

11 years ago

Kristin L

Veteran

If you like separates for work, why not check out some skirts as well?

11 years ago

unfrumped

Veteran

I still get cold in skirts and hose in the AC, but want to look more summery, so wear some anyway, and I only do closed- toe shoes at work. I will do a pencil skirt, boxy cotton or linen knit or silk top( shop for knits that are more refined than a cotton T), so not tucked in and hit, at least. I have also gotten 2 pair of ankle pants in cooler fabrics ( both from AT) and wear with loafers or slightly pointy flats. .

11 years ago

ironkurtin

Veteran

Eileen Fisher makes excellent lighter-weight professional separates.

11 years ago

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