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16 Summer Work Wardrobe Essentials

Written by Washingtonian Staff | Published on June 22, 2012
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The Perfect Sleeveless Blouse
The Perfect Sleeveless Blouse

This season’s staple comes with modern oversize pockets and with (or without) a collar. Silk blouse, $98 at Madewell.

The Minimalist Sandal
The Minimalist Sandal

The metal plate heel makes these just a touch more special. Sam Edelman Trina mod sandal, $100 at Free People.

The Colored Cropped Trouser
The Colored Cropped Trouser

A sleek warm-weather style in the prettiest shade of green. Cafe capri, $89.50 at J.Crew.

The Arty Blouse
The Arty Blouse

Cap sleeves and a loose fit means it looks great over white trousers or tucked into a pencil skirt. Simply Vera Vera Wang high-low tank, $37.80 at Kohl’s.

The Lightweight Midi Skirt
The Lightweight Midi Skirt

Try a fun pattern such as polka dots, and pair with a short-sleeved knit and chunky sandals. Midi-length polka dot skirt with belt, $19.80 at Forever 21.

The Neutral Nail
The Neutral Nail

Go for a slightly sheer shade—it will look clean and chic against your tan. RGB nail color in Beach, $16 at Beauty.com.

The Summer Suit
The Summer Suit

This mix-and-match ensemble won’t set you back too far price-wise, and it also comes in juicy shades of yellow, coral, and cerulean. For a more conservative office, try the pastel pink. Pim and Larkin separates, $34.99 to $79.99 at Piperlime.

The Substantial Lace Top
The Substantial Lace Top

Pick a neutral, tan, or blush shade and make sure it’s fully lined. Diane von Furstenberg Warner lace blouse, $275 at Neiman Marcus.

The Modern Shirtdress
The Modern Shirtdress

Even prettier in person, with a single button snap and a swinging hem. Francisco Costa by Calvin Klein belted crepe dress, $165 at Macy’s.

Skinny Gold Bangles
Skinny Gold Bangles

Don’t let a big bracelet clunk up your wrist—stick with simple, airy pieces in interesting shapes. Hardware bangle ($35) and Cylinder bangle ($30), at By Boe.

Perforated Leather Tote
Perforated Leather Tote

Help a classic work staple breathe a bit. $248 at Ann Taylor.

The Sheer Lip Stain
The Sheer Lip Stain

Of-the-moment it may be, but full-on bright lipstick will only melt in the sun. This hydrating balm leaves a light flush of color, and it’s super cheap! Maybelline Cherry Me Baby Lips lip balm, $2.99 at Target.

The Short-Sleeved Knit
The Short-Sleeved Knit

Ignore the teensy cutoffs—this will look elegant and unstuffy with a swingy spring skirt. Charlie light cashmere tee, $169.50 at Club Monaco.

The Summer Statement Necklace
The Summer Statement Necklace

Separate beads feel less bulky than last season’s fabric bib necklace. Brass and turquoise necklace, $64 at Bauble Bar.

The Simple Striped Dress
The Simple Striped Dress

Structured sleeves and a full skirt make this totally office appropriate. Wear with a blazer, a bright cardigan, a punchy necklace—whatever! The options are endless. Bordeaux scalloped stripes dress, $128 at Anthropologie.

Clear Frames
Clear Frames

Truth be told, these may be a little too trendy for more conservative offices. But if you’ve got the creative casual thing down, try trading your thick black frames for these lighter readers. Tortoise and Blonde reading classes, $98 at Anthropologie.

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