8 womenswear staples to add to your summer work wardrobe
When it comes to a summer work wardrobe, we all want throw-on outfits that are both lightweight and smart.
Versatility is key, too. Nowadays we're on the hunt for pieces that can double up as out-of-office attire - particularly as many of us work from home a couple of days a week.
From a statement chic printed midi dress, to a timeless animal print midi skirt and hardworking smart wide-leg linen trousers, we've found a collection of work-appropriate pieces that will keep you feeling cool and chic for many summers to come.
8 of the best summer workwear staples
Pure Linen Belted Wide Leg Trousers | £35 from M&S
Team these 100% linen trousers (available in four other colours) with a lovely light blazer over a stripy vest. Add some espadrille wedges, platform heels, or pretty ballet pumps and you have a lovely summer workwear look.
John Lewis Linen Blend Tunic Mini Dress | £49 from John Lewis & Partners
This pink shift dress will look great teamed with a jacket or light cardigan in the office air-conditioning. And for after-work drinks, change into your strappiest heels or flats. "The cut and quality are excellent and looks more expensive than the very reasonable purchase price-" said one happy shopper.
Daphne Skirt | £59.99 from Hobbs
Animal print is never out of style and looks great whatever the season. This flattering, high-waisted skirt has a lovely, floaty, slightly A-line cut - and we love the split-hem detail. The perfect piece that'll look on point for work and play.
Rose Trellis Wide Leg Jumpsuit | £65.95 from Seasalt Cornwall
One of the myriad plus points of this best-selling, silky-soft jumpsuit is that it comes in six different patterns. So if you like the style and the fit you can buy more than one – which many customers have. But this black version is the ultimate versatile piece you can add accessories to if you need to dress it up for work meetings or keep it casual for weekend wear.
Dorothy Perkins Tall Sage Midi Shirt Dress | £47.20 (was £59) from Debenhams
This sage green shirt dress (in sizes 8-18) is flying off the virtual shelves at Debenhams. We're not surprised - it's such a classic style that won't date. Plus it's flattering, lightweight and with 20% off you can't lose.
Printed V-Neck Midi Waisted Dress | £39.50 from M&S
Also available in a pretty blue print, this tiered viscose dress is selling super fast. We love the shirring in the middle, the piped trims and button-down front. "I bought this dress in 2 colours ... it's amazing!" raved a customer.
Blazer suit 100% linen | £59.99 from Mango
A brilliant price for a top quality, 100% linen blazer, this lined, single-breasted Mango must-have also comes in pink, lavender, black and white - and you can buy matching trousers, too.
100% Premium Linen Shirt | £39.90 from Uniqlo
The ultimate wardrobe staple, this top-quality linen shirt comes in 9 other colours, too. Get it oversized to wear it as a light outer layer. Or get your regular size for a super-smart piece to wear with trousers or skirts. "I bought this for the second time 💜 and it never disappoints me," one customer commented.
