Cold summer work outfits because I know you are searching for what to wear to work when the air conditioning is set to the max. Point of view, you could be searching what to wear to work in summer when it’s cold. All in all, this summer is not giving us m of the summer. While a cold office was not much of a problem for anyone working at the office the lastsummer, when everyone was saving with energy, things are back to normal this summer. Only the most environmentally conscious are turning off air conditioners to save energy. Hence the summer business dress code is upgrading – again! Scroll down to see what to wear to work in cold summer and learn all about the summer business dress code for summer 2025.

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

As summer paints the world in vibrant hues and ushers in a wave of warmth, unexpected bouts of cold weather can cast a chilly shadow on our sartorial choices. Particularly within the confines of a frosty office, where air conditioning reigns supreme, finding the perfect balance between comfort and style becomes paramount.

Sadly, the sun is not teasing summer, and it’s feeling a little too cold for now. You can feel the sun on your skin and almost smell the sea, but it’s not really hot. The sea and beach remain just out of reach. In the meantime, daydreams need your attention. If you can’t escape the city and the cold office and take your work to the beach, at least you can think of what you might wear to one.

Point of view; the very strict corporate dress code is not being relaxed for summer 2025. But at least you have the freedom to express your personal style and explore new outfit combinations for fall 2025. All in all, with the office half empty, you can test new outfit combinations to ensure you stun the entire office when everyone returns to work from their summer vacations.

While some might consider the chilly office environment a hindrance, I encourage you to view it as an opportunity to embrace new trends, experiment with textures, and showcase your versatility.

This style guide will equip you with insider knowledge on incorporating black and pink hues, sumptuous fabrics, and unexpected pairings into your work wardrobe, defying the boundaries set by the weather. Let your imagination run wild as you blend summer staples with cold-weather essentials, layering and juxtaposing elements to create head-turning work outfits that perfectly encapsulate your personality and professionalism.

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

THE BEST COLD SUMMER WORK OUTFITS 2025

Ps. Prepare to be enchanted with the collages and product galleries, for they are not merely eye candy, but rather pinnable and hyperlinked shopping spots.

With a mere click, you can effortlessly shop for all the fabulous cold summer work outfits showcased before you. A link will take you to the store where I found the clicked garment at the most honest price, low tariffs and with the smallest carbon footprint – we need to save energy somehow and everything counts.

And if you want to know more about the size and fit of the clothes/shoes before purchasing it –  subscribe to Brunette from Wall Street Substack. It’s all there. Plus, the 101 style guide for every outfit. Yes, I’m telling you why we paired that top with those pants, that dress with those shoes and that bag.

*If you need more help or have more questions, you can always book a styling session with me. Just fill out this form and I will help you.

THE MOST FASHIONABLE EARLY SUMMER WORK OUTFITS

Take on June with ease in a fresh and clean palette of buttery yellow, airy blue, and my current favourite, transcendent pink and whites. The most fashionable colours of the season and trendy tops are perfectly poised to refresh your workwear. 

Summer fashion 2025 offers a wealth of inspiration that can be seamlessly translated into a professional context.

1 WHITE SILK SCARF BLOUSE WITH TRANSCENDENT PINK PANTS AND POINTY FLATS WITH A HEADBAND

Imagine this, the sun creeps through the sheer curtains of your Upper West Side apartment, painting your bedroom in soft golden hues. 

The early morning light, paired with the cheerful chirping of birds outside your window, gently nudges you awake.

You stir, a smile playing on your lips even before your eyes open. The city is waking up, and so are you. A quick glance at the clock – still early, but the day beckons.

You stretch languidly, throw the sheets off your body, and take a deep breath, savouring the fresh air that slips through the slightly open window (thank you – smart home that opens windows just before you wake up).

You swing your legs out of bed, step into slippers and walk to your bathroom right away.

You brush your teeth, the minty freshness sparking your senses, and step into the shower. Hot water cascades over you, steam rising with the faint scent of your new shampoo, washing away any lingering sleepiness. You emerge refreshed, wrapped in a plush towel, feeling like you’re shedding weight and stepping into a new version of yourself as you dry your hair.

Now let’s put some sunscreen (2 finger lengths, SPF 50*) on your face before you settle at your vanity and do the makeup.

The morning sun is illuminating your collection of makeup. And the mirror reflects your focused expression as you apply foundation, blending it seamlessly to even your skin tone. A touch of blush brings warmth to your cheeks, and a swipe of eyeliner and mascara accentuates your eyes, making them pop.

You move to your dressing room and take out a white crepe silk scarf blouse and wide-leg transcendent pink pants. You put them on and step into pointy ballet flats. Pov, pointy ballet flats add a touch of understated elegance that will follow you all day long. You finish your look with a headband and a spritz of perfume.

With a quick glimpse at the clock, you realize you need to hurry up. You grab your bag, sling it over your shoulder, and run out.

West End Avenue buzzes with life. Taxis honk, pedestrians chatter, and the distant noise of construction blends with the city’s pulse. The historic brownstones strip the street glow in the morning sun as you catch the faint scent of blooming flowers from nearby Riverside Park. You can smell the flowers, bagels and coffee.

Halfway to your office, you stop at Joe the Art of Coffee, a cozy Upper West Side gem on Columbus Avenue, just a block from West End. The barista, familiar with your routine, flashes a warm smile as she hands you your matcha latte. The cup warms your hands, and the first sip – smooth, earthy, and slightly sweet – btw this means the matcha is good quality – grounds you in the moment. You thank her and step back into the flow of the city.

As you turn onto a quieter street, you spot your friend Emily, her face lighting up as she waves you over. “Wow, you look amazing!” she says, her eyes scanning your fit with genuine admiration. “How do you always pull off such a stylish look, even on a Monday morning?” 

“I read Brunette from Wall Street – let me send you the link.” “Yes, please! Omg, thank you so much! Hey, a few of us are hitting that new bar on Fifth for drinks tonight,” she adds. “You in?” You nod, the thought of an evening out adding a thrill to your day. “Count me in,” you reply

Emily grins, then sighs, “I’ll probably have to run home and change first – I’m not nearly as stylish as you.” “Well, I sent you the link for Brunette from Wall Street – you will find so many outfit ideas there. Anyway, see you later – I have to run now. We have a meeting at 10.”

CHIC COLD SUMMER BUSINESS CASUAL OUTFITS

As the scorching summer sun beats down outside, the workplace can present a contrasting challenge: the relentless blast of air conditioning that leaves you reaching for an extra layer to combat the office chill.

Simultaneously, unpredictable weather conditions can occasionally throw a curveball, surprising you with unexpectedly cool temperatures even in the midst of the summer season. Either way, you will need to embrace the chill this summer.

You might be greeted by an arctic blast from the air conditioning system as you enter the office. While it may offer respite from the sweltering heat outside, the chilly indoor atmosphere poses a sartorial challenge. Finding the delicate balance between professional attire and staying comfortably warm might be your daily mission. Hopefully not, but if so, I have you covered with fashionable transitional work outfits.

Occasionally, summer weather can be unpredictable, presenting surprisingly cool days amidst the season’s warmth. Such days demand a different approach to business casual attire. With a focus on adapting to fluctuating weather conditions, you need outfits that seamlessly transition from the chilly morning commute to the warmer afternoon.

Whether you’re combating the relentless air conditioning in the office or bracing against unexpected cold weather, statement making separates are ideal pieces to have on constant standby. Easy to dress up with the right pair of heels or chic pointy flats, these outfits are a must try.

2 BLACK TURTLENECK 3/4 SLEEVE KNIT TOP WITH PASTEL PINK TROUSERS AND PUMPS

When it comes to putting together a business casual outfit that can withstand the coolness of a summer office’s air conditioning, I always gather my Max Mara clothes first.

And no, this article is not sponsored by Max Mara, I genuinely think of Max Mara first.

Being a renowned fashion house known for its timeless elegance, Max Mara offers a stunning combination that gives the perfect balance between style and comfort.

Pairing the Max Mara black turtleneck 3/4 sleeve top with the Max Mara pastel pink trousers, and complemented by the kitten heels, this outfit exudes sophistication while ensuring you stay cozy in the chilly office environment.

The Max Mara black turtleneck 3/4 sleeve top is a versatile staple that brings refinement and practicality. And it effortlessly transitions from a professional day look to an after-work drinks, or wherever you go after office hours.

The 3/4 sleeves provide a touch of elegance while allowing for easy layering under blazers or lightweight cardigans. Crafted with high-quality materials, Max Mara black turtleneck 3/4 sleeve top offers a comfortable fit, ensuring all-day comfort even in the face of air conditioning’s icy touch.

Also, the classic turtleneck design exudes refinement, and gives the 60s feel that is trending this season.

At the same time, the Max Mara pastel pink trousers add a touch of femininity and sophistication to the fit. The impeccably tailored trousers boast a flattering silhouette that flatters everyone.

By the way, mine were taken in. I bought them in the smallest size, but of course, they were too big for me. All Max Mara pants are too big for me. We usually need to take in around 7 cm. Still, that is just me and my skinny figure. Take your normal size – it should fit you perfectly.

An intricate pleat executed with meticulous care always serves to elevate a look. Moreover, pleated trousers offer a smart silhouette that always stays elegant.

To complete the outfit, step in kitten heels, of course. We are not doing high heels anymore (yet). At least, not in the morning.

3 WHITE BLAZER ON A SILK SLIP TOP WITH A MIDI PLEATED SKIRT AND POINTY MULE HEELS

Easy business options for early summer at the office, don’t need to be totally devoid of detail. Try a classy spring summerwork outfit with a midi pleated skirt when you really want to dress up for work.

Imbued with business spirit, floral print and pleats are details that will add a delightful touch of drama to this chic early summer work outfit.

Point of view, midi pleated skirts never looks out of the office when it’s cold. From morning meetings to busy afternoons, this is the look that will always have you looking classy and smart.

CUTE COLD SUMMER WORK OUTFITS

Brightly poised, here are some cute corporate cold summer work outfits for tomorrow. Expect an expanded colour palette of punchy shades, relaxed-fitting styles and natural fabrics reworked in a multitude of silhouettes.

Step forward with unlimited confidence.

4 BLAZER ON A SHORT DRESS WITH DROP WAIST AND SLINGBACKS

Get ready to turn heads in this charming outfit. Slip into a short dress with a drop waist, showcasing a playful and feminine design. The lightweight fabric will keep you cool, while the drop waist is still a key fashion trend for summer 2025. Layer with a black blazer and complete the look with kitten heel slingback pumps, exuding elegance and style. This outfit effortlessly combines comfort and fashion, making it perfect for summer.

But where were we with our plot? Oh yes, you have just got to your office building.

So, you step inside. And a wave of cool air washes over you. It’s early June 2025, and the air conditioning reigns supreme in Lower Manhattan.

The chill brushes against your skin, making you grateful for the structured warmth of your white blazer.

Soaring ceilings stretch above you, and the marble floors gleam underfoot, reflecting the sunlight that pours through towering glass windows, as you enter.

You make your way toward the information desk, spotting a sleek trash bin where you can dispose of your empty matcha latte cup.

As you drop it into the bin, you catch your reflection in the mirrored wall behind the desk. The black blazer is sharp and tailored, the pink dress adds a playful pop of color, and the hem flows effortlessly. Your kitten heels elevate you, both literally and figuratively, making you feel like you’re ready to command any room you enter.

“Morning, Ms,” the concierge calls out, his voice warm and familiar. “Looking sharp as always.” You flash a smile, feeling a surge of confidence. “Thanks, Tim,” you reply, your voice steady despite the flutter of anticipation in your chest. Again, you have a meeting at 10.

As you turn toward the elevators, a familiar figure catches your eye. It’s Sarah, your colleague from marketing, her vibrant energy as bright as her red dress. “Hey!” she calls, waving you over with a grin. 

“That outfit is stunning. How do you make it look so effortless?” Her compliment lands like a warm ray of sunlight, and you laugh softly, brushing it off. “Thanks, Sarah,” you say. “Is everything ready for today?” 

“OMG, I forgot the gift for the client. Be right back,” Sarah says and runs away.

You finally press the elevator button. The doors slide open with a soft ding, and you step inside. You fix your bangs, and take a deep breath, readying yourself for the presentation that looms ahead.

Just as the doors begin to close, a hand shoots out, halting them mid-slide. Your heart skips as Mark, CFO, slips in, slightly breathless, his tailored suit hugging his frame, his tie just a touch askew. His eyes meet yours, and there’s a spark there.

It has been growing since that late-night project months ago, when shared laughter over spilled coffee turned into situationship. You’ve both danced around it, the unspoken attraction simmering beneath every meeting, every hallway nod. And now it feels impossible to ignore.

“Close call,” he says, his voice carrying a nervous edge as he straightens his tie. A flush colors his cheeks, and you wonder if it’s from the sprint or the weight of what he’s about to say.

The doors slide shut, sealing you both in, and the elevator begins its ascent.

You smile, trying to keep your voice steady. “Glad you made it,” you say, but your pulse quickens, betraying the calm you’re projecting.

He clears his throat, his gaze flickering to the floor numbers lighting up one by one before settling on you. “I’ve been meaning to talk to you,” he starts, his voice low, almost intimate in the enclosed space. “About… us.”

Your breath catches, and you turn to face him fully, your heart pounding. “Us?” you echo, the word soft but heavy with meaning.

“Yeah,” he says, his eyes locking onto yours, sincere and unguarded. “I really like you, more than just as a colleague. I’vewanted to ask you out for weeks – dinner, maybe, or something else. But I know we work together, and we probably need to check with HR first. I just… 

OK, I will stop the plot here. We will go back to it later. Let focus on your favourite early summer work outfit, first.

5 SHORT SLEEVE CARDIGAN WITH PASTEL PINK PANTS AND PUMPS

The day will breeze by in cute office-appropriate summer designs that have you looking pretty and collected. Go for lightweight knits that don’t require any fanciful details to add interest.

From slacks to knits, work outfits come reinvented in more relaxed ways as we step into the summer. For an effortlessly cute look, try a cardigan sweater with matching pants.

Re-worked for the season, summer knits come with feminine finishes like pink buttons in summer 2025. Cute and smart, enjoy the best of both worlds paired with light summer tailored pants and fancy heels.

Again, the day will breeze by for you in this outfit. Pov, if you are in the elevator with your crush your day will stop for a little bit.

So are you ready for the plot?

” I don’t want to mess this up, not when it feels this… real. I’ll set up a meeting with HR today, see what we need to do, he says.”

The elevator dings, announcing your floor, and the doors slide open, revealing the bustling hallway beyond. You step out together, and as you part ways toward your respective offices, he glances back at you.

“See you later?” he asks, his tone hopeful.

“Of course,” you reply, your heart lighter than it’s been all morning. You catch his eye one last time, and walk to your office.

COLD SUMMER BUSINESS FORMAL OUTFITS

We all need building blocks in our work wardrobe, but they don’t need to be boring when the code is business formal andit’s cold. Choose styles that come in summer colours and have fabulous details like oversized gold buttons and loops.

Once you have laid down interesting foundations, you can create a multitude of cold summer business formal looks with ease.

6 DOUBLE BREASTED NAVY BLUE BLAZER ON A SHORT SLEEVE NAVY BLUE DRESS AND COURT HEELS

Imagine waking up and there is a thick blanket of fog hovering outside your window. Stretching your arms above your head, you take a deep breath, it’s not flex and you are not ready to leave the bed, but someone needs to conquer the world.And that better be you.

You throw back the covers and step on the soft carpet. You run to the bathroom, and before you know it, you are already squeezing toothpaste. Almost empty!

After a long shower, you rush to your dressing room. Your new navy blue dress with short sleeves and flattering silhouette catches your eye. You slip into the dress, instantly boosting your confidence.

Next, you reach for a double-breasted navy blue blazer, a must for business formal attire. By the way, business dress code guide is coming on Brunette from Wall Street Substack in a few – make sure you upgrade your subscription to paid if you have a job interview scheduled soon. As you know, dress code guides are open to read only for paid subscribers.

CHIC BUSINESS SMART OUTFITS FOR COLD SUMMER

When it comes to cold summer work outfits, finding the right balance is essential. With chic business smart attire, you can effortlessly merge style and professionalism for a look that exudes confidence and sophistication. The following outfits are carefully curated to meet the demands of the workplace while keeping you comfortable in the changing weather conditions.

The days of dull and uninspiring office wear are not gone, but if the dress code is business smart instead of business formal, bring a breath of fresh air to your professional wardrobe with colors and boujee details.

Think tailored blazers in vibrant colors and pretty buttons, elegant dresses with trendy hemlines, or stylish separates that allow you to mix and match.

7 PINK BLAZER WITH CAMEL PANTS AND KITTEN HEELS

Embrace high-octane looks with supercharged pinks and fitted forms. Once your work activities come to an end and the golden hour begins, simply take off the blazer and show off in the pretty tank top.

Bright and smart, this spring to summer work outfit is ready to take you on an exhilarating ride. The silhouette is streamlined enough to let your skills take centre stage, and in brilliant pops of camel, you will look smart and professional all day long.

As your work activities wind down and the golden hour approaches, simply remove the blazer and reveal the pretty tank top underneath. This versatile transition allows you to effortlessly shift from a formal office setting to a more relaxed and stylish look, perfect for post-work engagements or happy hour networking.

8 LONG SLEEVE WHITE SHIRT DRESS WITH PUMPS

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

Whatever the weather or the season, the power of a white shirt dress remains undiminished.

From office-appropriate lengths to a flattering design, a white shirt dress will translate for any work event with pumps. It’stime to invest in this true icon of style.

I bought mine at Jw Anderson. The JW Anderson white shirt dress exudes quiet luxury with its crisp lines and tailored silhouette. The long sleeves provide coverage and warmth, while the pristine white hue adds a touch of purity and sophistication. This dress effortlessly captures the essence of business formality, evoking an air of authority and professionalism.

Complementing the dress, the cherry lacquer slingbacks infuse the outfit with a trendy pop of color. The sleek design and kitten heel of these pumps exudes femininity and refinement, while the cherry red hue adds a hint of modernity to the overall look.

Whether presenting at a board meeting or attending high-profile conferences, this business formal outfit ensures you remain polished and professional while working in a chilly office.

CASUAL SUMMER WORK OUTFITS FOR COLD SUMMER DAYS

For more casual work days, denim goes playful in lighter shades, whilst turtlenecks are here to delight and make you look present and ready to work.

9 3/4 SLEEVE TURTLENECK TOP WITH BLUE JEANS AND FLAT MULES

Start the day right by putting on a turtleneck top and modern skinny jeans. Style with sneakers if you are running late. But if you are taking it slow, step into Malone Souliers flat mules. They are as comfortable as slippers. Only more work appropriate.

Denim, slides and simple tops are some items we reach on a daily when we are not working. But if you reach for fancy knits and chic pointy flat mules, you can wear them all for work, too – if you are not obliged to dress business formal, of course.

10 SHORT SLEEVE CARDIGAN SWEATER WITH DARK WASH 70s STYLE JEANS AND SNEAKERS

As promised, a casual cold summer work outfit for teachers who are looking for a chic end of year school trip outfit.

This casual work outfit is perfect for teachers – especially for an activity day/culture day. Ppov our school trips usually had both. The long walks in the countryside, and endless hours at the museum – usually in the castle, and something in the water or underground in a mine or cave.

Obviously, this casual early summer owrk outfits is also for everyone who can wear casual clothes for work. It’s casual but collected.

And a short sleeve cardigan sweater brings a contemporary edge to the casual forms of jeans and sneakers. Also, it makes you easy to notice in the crowd. I remember how frustrating it was when we weren’t able to spot our teacher.

*I found sneakers that can’t be traced by trends but always look fresh and modern.

11 TURTLENECK 3/4 SLEEVE TOP WITH BLUE WRAP SKIRT AND SLINGBACKS WITH SOCKS

Stylish separates provide endless options to mix and match with ease. I found this chic blue wrap skirt that pairs so well with the star accessory of the season. A match made for the fashion office.

FAQ COLD SUMMER BUSINESS ATTIRE

When it comes to transitioning your work outfits from spring to summer, it’s important to consider the changing weather and the need for both comfort and professionalism.

*If you need more help or have more questions, you can always book a styling session with me. Just fill out this form and I will help you.

MORE SUMMER WORK OUTFIT IDEAS FOR SUNNY DAYS

*What outfit is your favourite? We created a special group to discuss about these outfits. Comment here. Or just express your feelings 🤍 🛒 😶‍🌫️🤭 here. Up next: discover stylish ways to infuse seasonal flair into your professional wardrobe and what to wear when the air conditioning breaks down.