What you wear to work largely depends on where you work. Be it a formal suit in a law firm or t-shirt and jeans as a flexi-time freelancer, whatever the dress code, there’s lots to be said for making an effort, and this shouldn’t change seasonally. Colleagues will respect it and clients will appreciate it, plus, it affects the self-confidence you have within the workplace. You will see, a perfect look is always a great thing that impresses people around you.
As we head into the summer months, it is important that the type of suit material transitions from a heavier weight into a lighter, more breathable fabric which won’t leave you feeling warm and stuffy in more formal business settings. Put away the trusty overcoat, black derby shoes and grey tones and opt for a more casual style of suit or mixed separately in lightweight cotton, linen and seersucker. This is also a time where you can really experiment with colour, the key is just to keep it simple.
An airy blazer is a summer necessity, and key to dressing for business casual. This version from Dries Van Noten has been crafted in Italy from a well-balanced mix of cotton and linen that’s light yet refined. Shaped with darting on the backside and featuring double vents, it has a tidy silhouette that doesn’t restrict and patch pockets to complement its casual appeal. Wider-than-average lapels create balance as well as adding a stylish point of difference.
Swap the shirt for a fitted crew neck t-shirt like this stripy, black and off-white cotton version also by Dries Van Noten. It is clean and lightweight enough to layer under suit jackets or fine knits, and adds an element of ease to the overall look.
As the temperature rises, don’t continue to get stuck wearing the same dark colours that defined your winter wardrobe. Experiment in the workplace with a versatile, lighter dark army hue, like this pair of trousers by Tom Ford. Cut in Italy from lightweight yet substantial linen, they’re designed with neat front pleats and pressed creases to sharpen the clean-lined silhouette. The notched waistband and unfinished hems ensure a comfortable, customisable fit.
Finish the look off with a pair of Loro Piana penny loafers, a smart-casual staple which you should add into your workwear shoe rotation. They are a fuss-free transition in a versatile mushroom suede which is a great alternative to have in the drier months.
This article was published in The Produktkulturmagazin, issue Q2 2017. Picture credit © MR PORTER
