Dressing for Summer in the City

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?