What to wear to work in a heatwave? What to wear to work on hot days? When it’s really hot? How to dress for work when the air conditioning at the office is set on low, or, even worse, turned off entirely? While summer heatwaves weren’t much of a problem for anyone working at the office the last summer, things are a lot different this summer. We are turning off air conditioners to save energy. But what about the business dress code in the heatwave? Is the business dress code downgrading as we begin to swelter in temperatures topping 30°C? It certainly is! Point of view, not as much as it did the last year. Scroll down to see what to wear to work in a heatwave and learn all about the new heatwave summer business dress code for summer 2025.

OGLAS I get a commission for purchases or clicks made through links in this post.

It is true; the usually very strict corporate dress code is being relaxed for summer 2025. Business people have been encouraged to dress more casually in the workplace in a move to avoid excessive use of air conditioners to save energy.

The new summer heatwave business dress code calls for cool power dresses, easy separates, breathable fabrics, and even sandals.

With the new summer heatwave dress code, you have the freedom to express your personal style while staying cool and collected. Embrace the change, explore new outfit combinations, and let your wardrobe be a reflection of your confidence and adaptability. Remember, the key is to dress for success while beating the heat wave. Your answer? Quiet luxury! You still want to look fashionable.

Scroll down to see/shop for the best summer heatwave work outfits.

THE BEST SUMMER HEATWAVE WORK OUTFITS

By the way, all the collages and product galleries are pinnable and hyperlinked. Meaning you can shop for all the heatwave summer work outfits simply by clicking on the garments. A link will take you to the store where I found the clicked garment at the most honest price and with the smallest carbon footprint.

POV Most clothes, shoes and accessories are linked to European online fashion stores to ensure you benefit from the current exchange rate.

Still, I wanted to make sure you reduce your carbon footprint while shopping for your heatwave summer work wardrobe. Hence I linked garments to online stores with their warehouses near your city, also.

BUSINESS FORMAL HEATWAVE OUTFITS

Indeed, the tides of corporate fashion are shifting, and the summer of 2025 brings with it a welcome wave of relaxed dress codes. Embracing a more laid-back approach, businesses have recognized the importance of conserving energy by encouraging a casual yet stylish aesthetic in the workplace.

Gone are the days of stifling blazers and suffocating button-downs. The new mantra for summer heatwave attire is all about striking the perfect balance between professionalism and energy saving. Take off the blazer and enter the cool power dresses that don’t fit the body but allow airflow, enabling you to walk the boardroom with ease while staying breezy and smart.

1 LOOSE FIT SHORTSLEEVE SHORT OFFICE DRESS WITH PUMPS

Daytime elegance comes assured with the knee length and short sleeves, whilst loose fit make sure you don’t swelter at the office as they set air conditioning on low.

Do the business formal attire while beating the heatwave in style with the mesmerizing combination of the RED Valentino pink short sleeve loose fit dress and matching pumps. This outfit is giving sophistication with relief from the scorching temperatures, ensuring you remain cool and collected even in a hot office environment.

Long and svelte may be the silhouette for the office for summer. But in summer 2025, we are reaching for slightly shorter dresses that liven up each business formal look.

The knee-length and short sleeves of the RED Valentino dress (btw mine is sold out, but I found a similar dress for you – see the product widget below) exude daytime elegance, making it a perfect choice for professional settings. The loose fit not only adds a touch of comfort but also ensures you don’t swelter under the office air conditioning set on low. This delightful balance between style and practicality allows you to fly through your workday with ease and grace.

You can pair the dress with matching pumps (like I did) or with slingbacks (I love pairing this dress with Valentino Garavani rockstuds, but not for business formal when tights are still a must – despite the abnormally high temperatures).

Tights add a touch of refinement and polish to your outfit, enhancing the overall professional aesthetic. They create a smooth and uniform appearance for your legs, providing a more put-together look that aligns with the formal dress code. Minimizing any distractions that bare legs might cause. This can be particularly important in conservative workplaces or when dealing with clients and customers.

In formal settings, wearing tights is considered part of professional etiquette. It demonstrates attention to detail and respect for the expected norms of dress, reflecting your commitment to presenting yourself in a manner consistent with the professional environment.

Besides, there is no way to wear pumps without tights. Luckily, 6DEN tights don’t weigh you down much. Btw the tights I added to the product gallery above have the best waistband (it doesn’t have that unfortunate seam that slices into your skin), and they feel ok with any briefs. I wear cotton Calvin Kleins – they don’t show off. Not that that would be a problem when wearing a loose fit dress anyway.

2 WHITE PANTSUIT WITH WHITE SILK TOP AND PUMPS

But don’t limit yourself to dresses alone; easy separates are also key players in this sartorial revolution, especially if you hate wearing tights as much as I do.

If you want to keep things low-key and formal, look to exquisite tailoring and sleek silhouettes in white.

To master this sartorial power move, opt for a well-fitted white blazer and matching pants. The monochromatic palette exudes confidence while reflecting sunlight, preventing excessive heat absorption. Point of view, the white outfit is givingpristine professionalism.

Make sure you wear a white silk top under the white blazer as you take off the blazer after the general meeting. And yes, it can be a slip top – no one will ever know. This silky addition offers a cooling touch against the skin, ensuring you stay poised and comfortable even in the hottest of office environments.

As the meeting ends and the heat becomes unbearable, and you are back to your office – alone – you can take the blazer off.

Now, let’s talk footwear. Casadei blade pumps step into the spotlight, adding a touch of sophistication to your outfit. Casadei blade pumps boast a refined design and impeccable craftsmanship, effortlessly elevating your look while keeping you poised for success.

But they are not the most comfortable pumps yet. For comfort shop for  Gianvito Rossi pumps – they are the most comfortable pumps yet – even at the end of the day when your legs get swollen. Choose a nude or white pair to maintain the sleek monochromatic aesthetic or experiment with a pop of color for a bold yet refined statement.

BUSINESS SMART SUMMER HEATWAVE WORK OUTFITS

When the temperature is simply unbearable and you are allowed to step away from business formal for a day, mix and match with slingbacks.

*Slingbacks are not business smart, but no one will know you are wearing them under wide-leg trousers.

3 TANK TOP WITH SILK WIDE-LEG PANTS AND LINEN BLAZER WITH SLINGBACKS

Think breathable trousers in linen or silk blend – I swear to silk Max Mara trousers. Paired with a tank top and linen blazer you will never suffer the heat. The versatile combination allows for effortless movement and exude a sense of confidence that is vital in the workplace.

The linen fabric allows for ample airflow, ensuring that you stay cool and collected even during intense meetings or presentations. Point of view, your linen blazer might wrinkle. Mine doesn’t, but my sister’s blazer, which is the same as mine (same brand, same style, same fabric composition – just different size), does. Whatsoever, I added a more wrinkle-proof linen blazer in the product gallery below anyway.

Ps. The blazer in the collage is linked to a Pinko blazer and is very similar to mine – but it’s not linen.

Complete your business formal heatwave outfit with the iconic Valentino Garavani Rockstud kitten heels. These stylish yet practical shoes provide the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. The kitten heel height ensures ease of movement, while the distinctive Rockstud detailing adds a touch of luxury and personality to your outfit. Plus, they are the most comfortable summer office shoes you will ever own.

SMART CASUAL SUMMER HEATWAVE WORK OUTFITS

Give traditional summer tailoring a modern spin by going for quiet luxury, pastels, loose-fit short dresses, tank tops, open backs, and slingbacks.

4 OLD MONEY OFF THE SHOULDER TOP WITH COTTON MAX MARA PANTS AND ROCKSTUDS

Don’t get tied down – make the hottest summer yet with off the shoulder top and Max Mara pants that sculpt to the form.

Embrace a sartorial triumph that defies the scorching heatwave as you go to work in this business formal attire. Pairedimpeccably with Max Mara’s pink pants, tailored to perfection, and adorned with the timeless charm of Valentino Garavani’s rockstud kitten heel sandals, a modern off the shoulder top is a masterstroke of refined style.

In the midst of the hot office, when temperatures rise, and the air hangs heavy, you remain composed and cool. A white off-the-shoulder top shows your rizz (confident individuality), while its old money silhouette strikes the perfect balance between professionalism and feminine allure. It defies the constraints of the heatwave without compromising on sophistication.

The Max Mara pink pants show your discerning taste. The lightweight cotton fabric ensures breathability and comfort, alleviating any concerns of discomfort in the sweltering office environment.

Btw, regarding the seizing of Max Mara pants – mine were taken in. All my Max Mara pants have been taken in. I always buy Max Mara pants in the smallest size (which is not my size, though) and then take my new pants to the seamstress.(POV You can save yourself the trouble and have them taken in by the retailer – check customer service.) She usually has to take in more than 7 centimetres in the waist. Anyway, make sure you check the size guide. They are true to the size – they just don’t have the smallest sizes.

Luckily, I don’t have any trouble with sizing when it comes to the shoes. Valentino Garavani rockstud kitten heel sandals – I bought mine in size IT36.5 – make an undeniable statement. With their closed-toe design, they maintain the level of formality required in a business setting while infusing a touch of edginess. These iconic sandals add an element of sophistication to your outfit, making you a beacon of style amidst the heatwave.

POV, As others wilt under the oppressive heat, you will remain a vision of poise and confidence.

5 CLASSY OFF THE SHOULDER TOP WITH PLEATED SHORTS AND VALENTINO ROCKSTUD SANDALS

Admittedly, this outfit will turn out to be formal only if you are petite and the shorts end two fingers above your knees. Mine don’t. But still, let’s assume yours will. Also, it makes a great summer work party outfit.

For those who are petite and opt for shorts that end approximately two fingers above the knees, the resulting look is undeniably smart (business formal, even, if you pair them with a blazer). And the shorts will lend a sense of structure and refinement to your summer work party look.

The off-the-shoulder white top adds a touch of femininity and allure, while maintaining a sense of professionalism. Its graceful neckline accentuates your collarbones, exuding confidence and authority. I do hope you don’t have a collarbone tattoo. If you do, please, scroll down.

Embracing smart casual attire for office party in a heatwave requires ingenuity, a keen eye for fashion, and clean skin.

6 SLEEVELESS LITTLE BLACK DRESS WITH ROCKSTUDS

Revel in the soothing influence of black to keep you looking calm and collected. It is hard to keep cool as the days heat up. But we think a little black dress with no sleeves is the best way to make an elegant statement. Besides, it makes the sweat spots less obvious.

Imagine stepping into the office on a sweltering summer day, the heatwave showing no mercy, and to your dismay, the air conditioning system decides to take an unexpected vacation. You see beads of sweat on your colleague’s forehead. But you remain cool and collected in your little black dress, with a loose fit and no sleeves.

The office is abuzz with the collective discomfort of your colleagues, fanning themselves and seeking refuge in the shade. Yet, you exude an air of cool confidence as you sit in the hot office. The sleeveless black dress allows the gentle breeze tocaress your skin, offering much-needed respite from the oppressive heat.

As you pass by your coworkers, their eyes are drawn to your impeccable style. The simplicity of the black dress accentuates your poise and professionalism, proving that smart casual attire can withstand even the harshest heatwave. Its timeless allure remains unblemished, while its sleeveless design is practically a necessity on days like today.

By the way, this outfit is more formal than the next one because of the material – despite the lack of sleeves. But you might want to style it with a more casual business tote to make sure you don’t look party ready, but party ready nonetheless. Happy hours are fast approaching.

BUSINESS CASUAL HEATWAVE OUTFITS FOR WORK

Lighten the mood at the office with charming cool designs in breezy colour ways and natural fabrics.

Look into separates like tailored shorts that are easy to dress up or dress down. Colourful options are always fun. Butdon’t ignore the soothing influences of neutral tones when you are caught in the middle of the heatwave. From wide straps to cap sleeves and bold pinks to formal necklines, there is an interesting take to suit every style.

7 SHORT SLEEVE LITTLE BLACK KNIT WRAP DRESS WITH ROCKSTUDS

For office parties during a scorching heatwave, finding the perfect balance between elegance and comfort can be a daunting task.

But I have put together just the outfit that seamlessly blends sophistication with relief.

Picture yourself in a short sleeve black knit wrap dress, a versatile choice that exudes effortless style, paired flawlessly with the coveted Valentino Garavani rockstud kitten heel sandals. Yes, again the rockstuds! I love them and you will love them, too. They are just so easy to walk in. Plus, they are back in fashion.

Anyway, back to the plot. As you enter the bustling venue of the business party, the heatwave outside seems like another world. The short sleeve black knit wrap dress, elegantly hugging your figure, allows for unrestricted movement and breathability, ensuring you stay cool and composed throughout the evening. With a length that modestly grazes two fingers above the knee, this dress strikes the perfect balance between formality and fashion-forward flair.

Point of view, my dress is slightly shorter. But I made sure the dress you will find in the product gallery below is longer than mine. Yet allowing you to withstand the heat of the night.

Complementing the dress, the Valentino Garavani rockstud kitten heel sandals make a bold statement of refined elegance. With their closed-toe design, these iconic sandals offer both style and comfort, ensuring your feet remain blissfully at ease throughout the night. The rockstud detailing adds a touch of edginess, effortlessly elevating your outfit and making you the centre of attention.

CASUAL SMART HOT SUMMER WORK OUTFITS

Sculpted and knitted, this season’s casual smart heatwave outfits speak volumes.

8 HALTERNECK KNIT TOP WITH BLUE NAVY LINEN TROUSERS AND FLAT MULES

Go for a statement-making neckline and simple pants.

Slip into the linen navy blue wide-leg pants. With loose and flowing silhouette they will allow unrestricted movement, ensuring comfort in the hot office environment.

As you prepare for another day of work amidst the scorching heatwave, it is important to make a stylish statement that defies the stifling temperatures. Your choice for today’s business casual outfit should embody both comfort and fashion-forward sensibilities.

Why don’t you try navy blue linen wide-leg pants paired with a sculpted and knitted halterneck top? IMAO, you will exude a refreshing elegance that defies the blazing sun.

The knitted halterneck top embraces the perfect balance between sophistication and breathability. It is casual, but its unique texture adds a touch of contemporary flair to your outfit.

You can complete your outfit with Malone Souliers flat mules. These stylish and practical shoes boast a sleek design that effortlessly merges elegance with comfort. The flat mules, with their distinctive pointed toes and refined craftsmanship, make a statement while providing relief from the heat.

Pov, As the sun reaches its zenith, and the hot office suddenly becomes a battleground for staying cool without compromising your professional appearance, you, dressed in the knitted halterneck top and navy blue wide-leg pants, you will remain unruffled.

9 TANK TOP WITH SILK TROUSERS AND SLINGBACKS

Maximum impact, minimum effort – update your summer work wardrobe with a tank top for hot summer days.

Go for tank top, and silk pants styled with slingbacks if you want some smart structure or flaunt those sun-kissed shoulders with a sleeveless style.

From whispering jolts of colour to a simple design that flatters to perfection, heatwave work dressing has never been so easy.

CASUAL BUSINESS HOT SUMMER WORK OUTFITS

From statement tops in cotton, wool or silk and wide-leg pants in tonal variations of pink, to short office dresses and sandals (yes, you can wear sandals for work during a heatwave if the dress code is business casual), these business casual heatwave outfits will put a smile on your face.

10 T-SHIRT WITH LINEN TROUSERS AND SANDALS

Go as lightweight as you can for summer work dressing; linen pants will lend themselves to repeat wear this summer. You can even pair them with sandals – if they are wide enough.

Worry not, I found a pair that is even wider than my Max Mara pants – here. But those in gallery are from other brand and linen. However, the pants in the collage are linked to other Max Mara pants – the same shape and made of the same fabric as mine, but in red. By the way, I plan to buy those. They will transition well into fall 2025 when red will be the most fashionable colour of the season.

Whatsoever, we still have two more heatwaves before fall. And there can be something deeply alluring about a lighter palette worn in the heat of summer.

11 TANK TOP WITH WIDE-LEG LINEN PANTS AND SANDAL MULES

Choose a soothing shade of neutrals or delicate pastels to keep you feeling calm and collected as the heat climbs up. We love swapping out blouses and pencil skirts for tank tops and linen trousers when we want summer work style with a more casual touch.

And we love stepping in sandal mules. Sandal mules have become synonymous with a more casual and relaxed aesthetic, making them a popular choice for those seeking comfort and style in a work environment that embraces a casual dress code.

Point of view, it’s important to note that the appropriateness of sandal mules for work can vary depending on the specific office culture and dress code policies. While they may be suitable for some casual work settings, it’s always wise to gauge the expectations and norms of your workplace to ensure your attire aligns with their standards of professionalism. Theyare OK if you are a content creator working in fashion, though.

CASUAL WORK OUTFITS WHEN IT’S BOILING OUTSIDE – CASUAL WORK OUTFITS FOR WORKING OUTSIDE IN THE HEAT

Relaxed and at ease, these casual work outfits will make working when it’s boiling outside a total breeze.

The crochet fabrics, linen and cotton designs I found for you provide the perfect amount of detail for something elevated that won’t set you down.

While tank tops and sleeveless dresses are our new summer office staples, you better cover your shoulders if you work outside. Be smart and protect yourself from sunburn.

Ps. Whilst striped cotton dresses can sometimes seem a daunting prospect for work, white lace dresses are here for the hottest summer days. Clever frills along the front and sleeves ensure the perfect casual work outfit.

12 SHORT WHITE DRESS WITH SANDAL MULES

Airy long sleeve dresses and matching sandal mules are a great way to sample casual work style whilst working outside in the heat.

Besides, lace dresses offer a nice touch of movement to counterbalance the high neckline.

Go for white for a touch of allure that is not too much for work in the sun. All in all, white summer clothes are perfectly suited for alfresco business activities and pair easily with heels after a busy day.

Ps. I added a longer version of my dress in the product gallery as well. You might find my dress too short if you work in service.

13 CROCHET TOP WITH LINEN SHORTS AND SANDAL MULES

If you work as a hostess at a bar or restaurant and shift from two different climates every few moments, you need an outfit that offers a balance between warm and cold.

Intricate fabrics in simple silhouettes are a perfect pairing. Look for crochet tops and navy linen shorts. Styled with white sandal mules, they are the perfect blend of casual and summer smart.

The crochet short sleeve sweater adds a touch of intricate detail to your outfit, creating a visual interest that sets it apart from typical summer attire. Its breathable nature allows the air to circulate freely, keeping you cool amidst the scorching temperatures. The delicate crochet pattern adds a playful charm, while the short sleeves offer a welcome respite from the hot summer sun.

Complementing the crochet top, the navy blue linen shorts exude a relaxed yet polished vibe. The lightweight fabric allows for optimal ventilation, ensuring that you remain comfortable throughout the day. The navy hue adds a touch of sophistication, creating a versatile canvas for various styling options.

Paired with the crochet sweater, dark linen shorts strike the perfect balance between casual and summer smart, reflecting the casual work atmosphere of the bar or restaurant.

To complete the look, you can slip into white high heel sandal mules. They will elevate your outfit and provide the necessary comfort and practicality required for a bustling work environment.

14 SHORT SLEEVE SWEATER WITH SHORTS AND BALLET FLATS

A nice pair of shorts takes you everywhere. Pair them with ballet flats if you need to do heavy tasks.

FAQ HEATWAVE SUMMER BUSINESS ATTIRE

Feeling perplexed by the multitude of office outfit ideas for the heatwave? Unsure which concept to embrace and which ensemble to don for that cool and composed vibe? I feel you! Check the FAQ section, and rest assured, you will get the answers you seek.

MORE SUMMER WORK OUTFIT IDEAS FOR SUNNY DAYS

Up next: how to incorporate summer trends into work attire.