I’d like to start this post with a bit of a disclaimer – I am not the best person to ask about workwear. When I started my first job as a copywriter back in 2007, I worked in a small digital agency where it was acceptable to wear pyjamas at your desk. No, seriously. Since then, I’ve worked at various advertising agencies where a dress code is the last thing on anyone’s mind, and now I work for myself. And let me tell you, myself quite likes jeans, too-short dresses and glittery nail varnish.
So, I don’t really ‘do’ workwear. But I do work in the city, and I have lots of client meetings, which means sometimes I need a more polished look. The last few days have been surprisingly warm, and I’ve found myself lost that age-old fashion conundrum – what’s a girl to wear for summer in the city?


Dress, By Malene Birger c/o Zalando | Leather jacket, Michael Kors via TK Maxx | Necklace, Primark | Flats, Ara c/o Sarenza | Watch, Michael Kors | Sunglasses, Jigsaw
This heavy jersey stripe dress is my go-to when I want something simple and elegant but still cool and summery. It’s By Malene Birger and was sent to me by Zalando – I love the slightly A-Line cut and deep front pockets. I’d never paid much attention to the By… range before but it’s packed with classically-cut pieces in bright colours and cute prints. It’s a little more expensive than your regular high street – although this dress was £65, which I think is good value – but great for workwear and beautiful basics. I want it all!
When the weather’s warm I much prefer flashing my legs than my arms, so although the dress is quite short I’ve covered up with my favourite leather jacket. I didn’t actually have a client meeting when wearing this, but if I did I think I’d switch the jacket for a blazer for a slightly smarter look. Flats are more polished and pulled together than sandals, and a nice big statement necklace just finishes things off. Maybe not an outfit suitable for everyone’s summer in the city, but definitely one for mine!
What do you wear to work when it’s warm outside? How do you maintain a professional look while still keeping cool?
This look really suits you Jen 🙂
Love this look, it really suits you!
great necklace!
from helen at http://www.thelovecatsinc.com // @thelovecatsinc
Really love this, the necklace really makes the outfit
LOVELY XO
Necklace is such a great colour with the stripes – Good look!
You look lovely! The look is simple but very “Striking”! 😀 xx
LOVE this look! The necklace is stunning and your legs are to die for! xxx
Your legs are amazing!x
Love the necklace. I like simple dresses for work when the weather gets hotter. And a cardi as it may be hot inside but the aircon is freezing in my office. x
I hate dressing for work, I don’t work in a creative industry and in general there’s not of exciting outfits floating around. I like a jersey ‘workwear’ dress in a bright colour with flats and an optional cardigan, structured clothing is the worst in horrid office heat. Definitely need to incorporate some more statement necklaces, will brighten things up 🙂 Great post! xoxo
This was really nicely done 🙂 stripes are my staple in the summer, they’re just so easy to dress up and down effortlessly.
I really really like this outfit in you! And the other comments are right, the necklace pulls it all together in the right way.
I work in local government, so it’s always important for me to dress appropriately. In summer I like pencil skirts with flats or some nice wedges (just not too high. Super high heels in an office are actually hell). I also like chiffon tops or blouses, or a similar fabric, with a singlet underneath. Keeps you cool, but covered. Cropped pants and capri shorts also work well with flats…
Love this look as well! The necklace and lips really make it pop!
I love how versatile you are with your style, this dress looks really cute on your, love it 🙂 I need to read all the tips in response to this post because I’m going on a business trip to Hungary next week, it’s going to be hot but I need to look smart, I’m not good at smart 🙁
allaboutthegirlblog.blogspot.com xx
Nice fashion style.. I truly admire..
really like this look
the stripes look great with that pink necklace
– ordaining serendipity
Love the necklace
x
I love the pop of colour with the necklace. I have been wearing a lot of full skirts and dresses for summer with sleeveless blouses, but I BOIL in the sun.
Maria xxx
Lovely outfit – nice colour pop form the necklace against the black & white palette. Me likey!
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