Wow—they don’t call it “Hotlanta” for nothing. Like most of you, I’m melting in this unbearable summer heat. But what’s even more unbearable are the inappropriate outfits I see everywhere. It seems that everywhere I look there is a half-naked woman baring nearly all, even if she’s at work! This might fly if your employer is Hooters, but it’s not kosher at most businesses, whether or not the temperature is in the triple digits.
It’s important to maintain our professional and polished images throughout the year. Do tiny shorts, micro minis or skimpy camisoles scream professional? No, they do not. They’re something you’d see on a teenage girl, not on a businesswoman who wants to be taken seriously.
Instead of wearing next to nothing in an effort to stay cool this summer, stick to layers that will have you looking chic and feeling comfortable. Even though it’s sweltering outside, you spend most of your working day in the office, where more often than not the A/C is on at full blast. When you are at home and in your car, you can also cool off with air conditioning. Really, the only time you’ll be exposed to the heat is when you arrive and leave for the day, or if you decide to go for a walk at lunchtime. When you think about it, it’s not really worth presenting a sloppy, sexualized image of yourself at work for what amounts to about 30 minutes to an hour of your day, is it?
I recommend stocking up on stylish, tailored sheath dresses in a cool, lightweight fabric — just avoid anything that cuts too close to the underarm, as it can reveal sweat marks. You can pair them with a cardigan or blazer (think Michelle Obama or Carla Bruni, shown above right), and classy heels. Only go with an open-toed shoe if you’ve had a pedicure, and never wear flip-flops at the office. If you step outside, you can lose the cardigan and still be comfortable without flashing too much skin. You’ll look and feel glam.
Another trick: Carry a can of a hydrating beauty water spritz or Evian spray… it’s perfect for instant relief from the heat!