Usually, warm weather gives us the green light to pull out the lightest, brightest items in our wardrobes. UK dwellers are used to brisk winds and cloudy skies, so when we're blessed with balmy climes, we quickly become reliant on barely-there sandals, strappy sundresses and linen separates to keep us cool and comfortable.
But when it comes to work attire, picking an outfit that feels smart, polished and appropriate for the heat is no easy feat. Particularly on humid days, when you want to wear as little clothing as possible—I think we can all agree this isn't exactly a professional look.
Thankfully, there's one item that's always on standby, ready to swoop in and solve our sartorial dilemmas. Dresses are the Who What Wear team's answer to almost every tricky styling scenario, whether you're in need of a last-minute wedding guest look, a sleek date-night option, or (you guessed it) a summer work uniform.
Be it an elegant wrap design or a simple cotton midi, the right dress will allow you to ditch the layers and still look the part on super hot days. Stick to natural fabrics like cotton or linen, along with short sleeves, and you'll feel like you've got nothing on—but crucially, you won't catch odd looks as you enter the meeting room.
I've searched far and wide to identify the very best summer work dresses on the market now. Scroll on to see 21 that impressed me the most.
Shop Office-Friendly Summer Dresses:
Proof that shirt dresses don't have to be boring.
Super polished, but without sacrificing comfort.
You'll want to wear this outside the office, too.
Achieve easy elegance with this fuss-free maxi.
You'll be the talk of the Zoom call if you show up in this chic number.
Don't be afraid to make a statement with a bold hue.
If you're seeking an office wardrobe on a budget, look no further than H&M.
Seersucker is a key fabrication for summer.
This would look so smart with matching nude heels.
Every one of our editors loves this dress.
Cinch this in with a leather belt and add black mules.
You can also pick this up in black.
If you want to stay cool on hot days, stick to natural materials like linen.
Simple but oh-so effective.
This will work in any office, no matter how smart the dress code.
Take this beauty from desk to after-work drinks.
Guaranteed to earn you compliments from your co-workers.
Just toss a trench coat over this striking dress for the commute.
Stripes are forever.
If your office dress code is a little more relaxed, try out this chambray design.
When in doubt, an LBD is appropriate for all occasions.
Next Up: This Summer Workwear Capsule Will Make You Look Polished on the Hottest Days
