It’s the best time of the year (other than the holidays of course)! If you’re lucky enough to scoot early from work on Fridays to catch a late lunch or early dinner & drinks with your loved ones, take advantage of the long summer days, where you don’t have to make an extra stop at home to change your outfit. Check out my top picks for work appropriate dresses for this summer 2024.
If you’ve been following me for some time, you’ll know I’m not a stickler for trends. However, I love trends that seamlessly blend into my taste & style, and can actually be a classic, timeless piece, that is just having its moment right now in the fashion world right now. With that, I’ve chosen pieces that complement this season’s trends, but are ultimately perfect for every summer beyond 2024. This season is all about linens, woven shoes, flats, kitten heels, platforms, and interesting white dresses.
In terms of summer dresses for work, focus on breathable fabric. Not to mention, linens are having a moment right now too, so take advantage of the plethora of linen options available in stores right now! To be comfortable in the heat, think airy, lightweight material, fun floral patterns & wrap dresses, oversized as well as more polished, chic A-line dresses, shirtdresses (both oversized & fitted options), jumpsuits, drop waist fits, minimalistic tones, and interesting neckline designs.
Lastly, you can always rely on opting for light jackets or cardigans that specifically have buttons, helping make an outfit appear more professional and put-together. Compiling this list made me miss dressing up and going into the office when I was in the corporate world!
Of course, use your best judgment when considering these options for your own unique workplace, as each company has its own specific policies around attire. However, think creatively too, as you can’t go wrong with throwing on a blazer with almost all of these options to fit into a more conservative workplace dress code. Please keep in mind that these items may go out of stock and prices may change by the respective retailer. Remember- you can always use the images below as inspiration to search for similar pieces. All images belong to the respective brands.
Happy styling!
xo
Nazaneen Azizi
CIEBON Emilie Belted Mini Shirtdress
From the office to weekend brunch, you can comfortably rock this breathable, light dress that flows elegantly. The collar and shoulder detail provide a sophisticated touch, with the green pattern complimenting almost every skin tone.
Penelope Crepe Mini Dress
It doesn’t get any more minimalistic and elegant than this off-white mini dress. You can pair this with almost any color blazer to adhere to more professional dress codes, or wear it as-is in the office on warm days, thanks to its appropriate length & sleeveless nature. The best part is that this dress can also be worn to events.
Linen-Blend Button Midi Dress
Pinstripe dresses, especially with buttons, a belt, and appropriate knee-length, are the perfect addition to your work wardrobe. The sleeveless detail allows for you to feel the breeze on summer days, but can also work for the fall season.
MILLE Violetta Ruffle Tie Waist Dress
When you are seeking a polished look, you cannot go wrong with a turtleneck, especially for the office. The ruffle detail & breathable material is perfect for the hot summer days, and allows the dress to be versatile enough to transition from work to play.
Nanette Lepore Pleated Sleeveless Dress
Another sleeveless turtleneck dress for the win- except this pleated design is more elevated, put together, and ideal for both the office or events for all seasons. Not to mention, the sophisticated deep blue tone would compliment fair skin tones, as well as medium to deep.
Poplin Cross-Waist Midi Dress
A timeless midi dress in a classic white tone that would go well with neutrals, such as black or nude, or even with a pop of color, such as pink, green, mustard yellow- the list goes on. This dress is both casual and chic, with the mid-calf length and crisp collar detail making it completely work appropriate, but also perfect for a warm weekend outing.
Reiss Florence Mixed Print Sleeveless Dress
Some of my favorite summer dresses have interesting patterns and fun colors, without being too distracting for work. This sleeveless mixed print dress can be dressed for the office with a white blazer and pumps, as well as a vacation item paired with a sandal or wedge.
COS Cutout Back Sleeveless Wide Leg Jumpsuit
Those working in more casual settings would get a ton of use out of this classic sleeveless wide leg jumpsuit. This is a casual and chic piece that can be styled in so many ways, taking you from the office to happy hour with your girlfriends. The best part is that black compliments almost every skin tone, and you won’t have to toss this piece until it’s really worn out, since it’ll never go out of style.
Cinq a Sept Randi Crystal Button Cotton Tweed Sheath Dress
This fun, unique piece is incredibly chic, sophisticated, elevated…you get the gist. My favorite part about white dresses is that you can get away with adding more colorful detail without looking over-the-top. A neutral, pastel lavender or tan blazer, or even a more bold hot pink or emerald green one (depending on your taste), would complete this dress in a more creative office setting.
Theory High Neck Sleeveless Minidress
Theory is one of the best brands for quality, timeless and simple office friendly pieces, and you’d be surprised how many deals you can find on Theory at Nordstrom Rack. This LBD is an essential wardrobe item for work that you can wear year round, assuming you live in a climate similar to California’s.
rag & bone Louisa Sleeveless Poplin Shirtdress
Shirtdresses are so versatile, and perfect for both casual and work settings. Thanks to its sleeveless nature, you’ll be able to cool down quickly when it’s hot outside. The dark blue tone would pair beautifully with tan/nude or black accessories.
DVF Kent Geometric Print Long Sleeve Midi Dress
Another versatile dress you can wear almost anywhere, at any time of the year, from parties, to weekend get-togethers, vacations, and of course, work, thanks to its fun, yet tasteful pattern, as well as its conservative neck, sleeves, and length. The loose, breathable material allows for comfort during the warm days, but can also provide a bit of warmth during the cooler seasons, especially paired with a blazer and boots.
Veronica Beard Mackey Seersucker Shirtdress
If it’s any dress that screams summer and spring, it’s this one. Veronica Beard is another solid brand for the working woman who appreciates transitional, versatile pieces that also cater to creative work environments with more relaxed dress codes. The pattern on this shirtdress elevates the piece, especially with a halter touch, and can be paired with a white blazer to cover up the open back if needed.
STAUD Wells Abstract Print Stretch Cotton Dress
This comfortable dress has an appropriate length and neckline. What’s even better is you can throw on almost any colored blazer to cover up a bit more if needed. Enjoy dressing it up with pumps, but you can also go more casual with a fedora or wide-brimmed hat, flats, sandals or wedges.
Oversized Poplin Midi Shirtdress
I’m a sucker for oversized pieces. This deep blue sophisticated tone helps make this oversized shirtdress more office friendly (you can count on Banana to design a versatile piece like this). Again, almost any skin tone would look good in this color. It pairs well with black and nude, but also hot pink or red if you’re up for some bold fun. You can even wear it poolside over your swimsuit, or for a casual weekend shopping and dining. Even better- during the fall, pair it with your favorite knee-high boots.
Cinq a Sept Nova Tweed Fit & Flare Dress
Did anyone ask for old money, professional businesswoman vibes? This dress can easily be mistaken for a Chanel piece without the Chanel price tag (although this price is still a bit steep). However, given the amount of wear you can get out of this classic piece that can last forever, you’d definitely get your money’s worth. Think of it as an investment- and you’ll look and feel like a million bucks all year round.
Coastal Stripe Short Shirt Dress
On a summer Friday, or if your meetings are canceled, skip out early so you can have drinks with friends by the water in this breathable, lightweight shirtdress versatile enough to also pack for the beach, vacation, poolside, casual hang-outs, and so much more. Vince is the ideal brand for classic, simple, modern, and minimalistic vibes for both work and play.
Ted Baker London Velvey Puff Sleeve Dress
Ted Baker has mastered the elegant, old money look, giving off Ivanka Trump vibes. You can’t go wrong with A-Line dresses and puff sleeves, paired with pointed toe pumps. Look classy and sophisticated in the office, without being too uncomfortable on warmer days.
Soft Touch Scuba Seamed Midi Dress
Thank goodness for Banana’s Factory division, where you can score their classic styles on a budget. This simple, elegant, and beautifully sculpted dress is another year round option perfect for the office. It’s covered in all the right places, but still hugs the figure in a tasteful manner.
NIC+ZOE Polished Shirtdress
Another shirtdress option for more casual workplaces. There is no doubt you’ll feel the cool breeze in this piece, and can style it on your days off too. The deep tone gives off a chic vibe, and allows for you to accessorize with more colorful additions and statement jewelry.
CeCe Puff Sleeve Babydoll Lace Minidress
White dresses are trending this season, but that doesn’t mean we have to throw them out next season, since this is, at its core, a classic and timeless style. This babydoll minidress is more playful and youthful, with an elegant puff sleeve detail. Wear it for many spring and summer seasons ahead, whether in office, over the weekend, during vacation, and more.
Veronica Beard Kanika Belted Denim Minidress
This is not your average, overly casual denim dress for teens. Thanks to its flounce hem and slightly puffed sleeves, this jean dress will make you feel classy and polished, with a creative edge on a summer day.
Reformation Ula Midi Shirtdress
This shirtdress is classic simplicity at its finest, with the addition of the belt to give more color contrast, as well as a form fitting look. This incredibly comfortable material is exactly what you need on a warm day, with its conservative length and lacy trim on the sleeves, making it more than appropriate for the office.
Dress the Population Livia Fit & Flare Dress
This flare dress gives Jackie Kennedy & Victoria Beckham vibes. In fact, I’m pretty sure I saw Victoria Beckham wear almost this exact dress with black oversized sunglasses and elegant pointed toe pumps. Perfect for more conservative workplaces, including law or investment banking firms.
MANGO Tie Belt Faux Wrap Midi Dress
MANGO has become the go-to for chic, contemporary designer looks, without the designer price tag- Victoria Beckham did a collab with them for a reason. Wrap dresses are ideal for work environments to dinner plans, and more occasions in between. The collar, length, belt, sleeves, v-neck, are all details that contribute to its classy and elegant style, in a versatile off-white/cream tone.
Nordstrom Drop Waist Button Front Cotton Midi Dress
Another loose, short sleeved cotton dress perfect for hot days so you can be comfortable and feel the breeze in any spring or summer season. This versatile style can be worn in the office with heels, as well as day time lunch or weekend getaways with more casual sandals and more.
Chelsea28 Print Maxi Dress
Maxi dresses are ideal for those who want to look stylish, put together, and chic in a hot climate. This dress has a fun print that is tasteful for the office, as well as vacations, events, and more, especially because it’s not too revealing, and can be styled for more professional settings in a light, breathable blazer or cardigan.
Nordstrom Stretch Cotton Ribbed Tank Dress
A very simple tank dress that can be appropriate for the office on exceptionally warm days, due to the perfect mid-calf length and chic deep blue tone. Its comfortable stretch cotton material makes it an appealing pick, and can once again elevate the dress with a light jacket to meet the dress code standards of a more conservative workplace, and wear it as-is when you skip out to meet with friends for dinner or drinks.
Gucci Erin Pointed Toe Slingback Flat (Women)
Slingbacks are having a moment right now, but a pointed toe slingback flat is a classic staple in any woman’s closet. Although not a fan of too many logos, this specific Gucci flat is an exception. Thanks to its neutral tone, you can style these with the more simple pieces above to ensure you’re balancing out patterns, while being comfortable, and not to mention, incredibly chic.
Dolce Vita Kaline Pump
Natural woven detail on shoes have been all the rage this season. These Dolce Vita pumps are unique, simple, feature a classic pointed toe, and not too high of a heel, that all make it more work-friendly.
Jessica Simpson Talise Braided Wedge in Black
Jessica Simpson had a chokehold on us years back, and she didn’t miss with these classic wedges, while also capturing the woven/braided touch that is trending at the moment. Wedges are a great way to pull of heels you can actually walk in thanks to its platform nature, and these specific ones are not too loud for work, and are versatile enough to rock on your weekends and days off for many years to come.
Stuart Weitzman Tully Pointed Toe Slingback Pump (Women)
Kitten heels are having a major moment (thank goodness), and it’s vital to have a classic pair of comfortable black pointed toe pumps you can rely on for work or any formal occasions. You can honestly wear these endlessly and get your money’s worth. You can’t go wrong with Stuart Weitzman’s designs, with this one being a super elegant, classic shoe to keep for a lifetime.
Stuart Weitzman Sleek Cap Toe Bow Flat (Women)
I’m usually not a fan of ballet flats, but I’d definitely make an exception for these Stuart Weitzman flats (can you tell I love SW?), which are also currently trending. The dual tone with contrasting black and creme and gold touch on the bow create this old money aesthetic, while somehow retaining a timeless, youthful and modern look.
Madewell Cropped Blazer in 100% Linen
A cropped white linen blazer- what more would you need to make your dress more polished on a warm summer day to step into the office? Although linens are trending this season, this is a classic piece you can keep in your closet forever.
J.Crew Tall Helena Blazer in Stretch Linen Blend
A breathable, longer blazer that is stretchy, comfortable, and has more of a professional look to it. You can throw this on any of the dresses above or even with a skirt, trousers, and more.
Menique Jacket with Buttons Alice
Another cropped linen jacket, where it’s somewhere between a blazer and cardigan, which is exactly what makes me love this versatile piece. You can wear this in the office, on weekends, with denim, linen pants, heels, sandals- you name it.
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NAZANEEN AZIZI® 