I am having a fashion emergency! I am a young professional and this is my first summer working in a business casual environment. Can you suggest some looks on a budget that will get me through the hot summer months at the office? —Paige
Between the sweltering heat outside and the frigid air-conditioned indoors, dressing stylishly for work can be a huge challenge - but it's not entirely impossible if you have a few key pieces in your closet. Here are 3 outfit ideas to help you achieve workplace chic this summer (click on any item for shopping details):Summer staple: Cotton pants
How to wear them: Sleeveless top, lightweight blazer and fun pumps.
Some guidelines: I'm a big advocate of black twill pants because they're dressy, go with everything and totally comfortable. If you can find a pair with a bit of spandex, these will give you a bit of stretch and hold their shape better when you wash them.
Summer staple: Printed skirts
How to wear them: Crisp white shirt, lightweight blazer or jacket and mid-heel sandals
Some guidelines: Move beyond the black pencil skirt and stock up on pretty printed skirts you can wear all summer. Make sure they aren't too short or sheer, and add polish with a button-front shirt, blazer and office-appropriate shoes.
Summer staple: Dresses!
How to wear them: Blazer or cardigan and heels
Some guidelines: Avoid anything too tight or too revealing. If you can't wear a regular bra with the dress, chances are it isn't appropriate for work. Look for natural fibers that breathe like cotton, linen and silk.
How to wear them: Crisp white shirt, lightweight blazer or jacket and mid-heel sandals
Some guidelines: Move beyond the black pencil skirt and stock up on pretty printed skirts you can wear all summer. Make sure they aren't too short or sheer, and add polish with a button-front shirt, blazer and office-appropriate shoes.
Summer staple: Dresses!
How to wear them: Blazer or cardigan and heels
Some guidelines: Avoid anything too tight or too revealing. If you can't wear a regular bra with the dress, chances are it isn't appropriate for work. Look for natural fibers that breathe like cotton, linen and silk.
