Now that it finally feels like summer in Toronto, you’ll want to stay cool on your commute and in the office, regardless of the soaring temperatures and high humidity. Keeping comfortable on hot days is not an impossible task, it simply requires strategic wardrobe planning, garments made of breathable, lightweight materials, and some clever layering.
Here are 7 style tips to lighten up your office wardrobe.
See stripes
Nautical or not, stripes are always a good bet for summertime. This made-in-Italy set looks great, whether you’re wearing it with a cowl-neck top or something a bit more business casual.
Maska Striped Blazer and Pants, available at Maska.
Add shimmer
Embracing a hint of metallic is a great way to lighten up your look without going overboard. These Apostrophe slides, available in three colourways, are made in Italy and designed to be worn in comfort for day and night.
Apostrophe Sandal, available at Jean-Paul Fortin.
Go natural
Outside of the high-tech textiles used in athleticwear, the most breathable fabrics are natural ones such as linen and cotton. Swap out your synthetics and lightweight-wool shirting for a comfortable linen button-up that will look good with, or without, a blazer.
Eleventy Men’s Shirt, available at Eleventy.
Let loose
Look for tanks and tops with a loose, breezy silhouette instead of your standard, fitted styles. This comfortable minimalist-chic cotton top even includes a charming slit pocket.
Sarah Pacini A-Line Women’s Cotton Shirt, available at Sarah Pacini.
Swap bags
Summer is the perfect time to reassess your everyday handbag. This Bembien Stella style is inspired by Grace Kelly’s affinity for box bags, and the handwoven rattan makes it much lighter than most of the leather styles in your closet.
Bembien Stella Bag Top Handle, available at Judith & Charles.
Step freely
Skip the socks when the temperature soars and elevate your work-to-weekend footwear with this pair of handmade suede shoes by Loro Piana. They’re water repellent and come with a summer-ready latex sole.
Loro Piana Summer Walk Men’s Shoes, available at Via Cavour.
Get bright
Bold, vibrant colours are always a good idea in the summer months. This classic shirt dress by American designer Diane Von Furstenberg is made from lightweight, eye-catching silk Crepe de Chine in a hue that’s guaranteed to turn heads.
Diane Von Furstenberg Addilyn Shirt Dress, available at Andrews.
