Shorts, strappy tops and sandals: Can my boss tell me what to wear in summer?

Summer Office Attire: Navigating the Heatwave Dress Code

Ninoda.com – Another wave of hot weather may soon arrive, turning daily commutes into sweaty ordeals and offices into stuffy environments. Deciding what to wear to work during summer months proves more complicated than many expect. While shorts, open-toed shoes, and sleeveless tops offer relief from the heat, there is always the risk of being perceived as too casual or unprofessional. Tokyo recently experienced a notable reaction against bare legs after local authorities suggested male employees exchange their traditional suits for shorts. This initiative sparked complaints regarding visible leg hair in professional settings.

Are Shorts Appropriate for the Workplace?

Conor, employed in the media sector, has made a habit of wearing shorts to his office throughout recent periods of high temperatures. His perspective is straightforward: “Who gives a monkey’s what you wear?” He argues that as long as employees perform their duties safely and professionally, comfort should be prioritized. Public sentiment appears to support this view. According to a recent Ipsos survey, 62% of adults believe men should be permitted to wear shorts during hot weather, while 63% extend the same courtesy to women.

However, fashion designer Amanda Wakeley cautions against overly short styles. She notes that if you question whether your shorts are too brief, they likely are. Wakeley considers shorts the most challenging garment to style correctly in professional environments. Her recommendation involves choosing longer, tailored options paired with either a crisp shirt or a light blazer, suitable for all genders. Stylist Clare Chambers concurs, suggesting shorts should rest near the kneecap for both men and women. For male employees, she advocates for chino-style shorts worn with an untucked shirt or T-shirt.

Footwear: Beyond Flip-Flops

Combining socks with sandals presents a styling challenge even in casual settings, making it particularly difficult for office environments. Wakeley identifies flip-flops as one of the few universally rejected footwear choices in most workplaces. “They instantly signal leisure rather than professionalism and can make even the most polished outfit feel underdressed,” she explains. Chambers supports this view, recommending woven flats during extreme heat because they allow breathability while still covering the foot entirely.

According to Ipsos data, nearly two-thirds of respondents consider men wearing sandals in the workplace unacceptable, while 58% hold the same opinion regarding women. Nevertheless, Wakeley distinguishes between casual sandals and refined leather varieties, which many offices accept provided they remain clean and well-maintained. The key distinction lies in whether the footwear complements a thoughtfully assembled outfit or resembles something typically worn near a pool. Although socks and sandals have gained popularity through social media trends, Wakeley advises considering whether such styles align with the professional image you wish to project. “This combination can read as highly casual and youthful, which may unintentionally detract from giving you a credible and authoritative presence,” she observes.

Bare Shoulders: A Divisive Topic

Public opinion remains split regarding exposed shoulders at work. The Ipsos poll revealed that 40% of adults find tank tops or vest tops acceptable for female employees, compared to just 24% who agree for men. Natasia, a London-based educator, recalls being frequently reprimanded during summer months at a former school for her attire. She also received instructions to conceal her tattoos. “It should be OK to have your arms out at work especially when it’s hot,” she asserts.

Wakeley suggests that a well-fitted camisole or strappy top functions well when layered under a linen overshirt, light jacket, or coordinated set. Without additional layers, however, such garments may appear too informal. Chambers emphasizes that wearing a strapless bra is essential when donning strappy tops, as visible bra straps can ruin an otherwise polished look. She recommends thicker straps as a safer choice when dress codes remain ambiguous and suggests satin camisoles as a more sophisticated alternative to standard cotton vests. While bandeau tops represent a popular summer trend, Chambers dismisses them for office wear. “The constant need to keep fiddling to pull them up displays an uncomfortable and unconfident demeanour,” she notes.

Styling for Summer Success

Addressing the challenge of dressing for warm weather does not require abandoning personal style entirely. Both Wakeley and Chambers emphasize that employees can maintain their individuality while adhering to workplace guidelines. Their guidance highlights that selecting garments more deliberately often proves more effective than simply wearing less clothing. By choosing appropriate lengths, fabrics, and combinations, professionals can stay comfortable without compromising their professional image.