Reader Question: Springtime Office Apparel For Guys
By Gabi Meyers | Last Updated: Jun 23 2022 | 5 min read
Happy Wednesday! Intern Gabi’s here to knock out a reader question for me this week.
You know the drill: Read up, learn something new, then show up in the comments with something interesting to add to the conversation.
With warm weather finally showing it’s face again after a what-felt-like-it-was-never-ending winter of rain, sleet, snow, more sleet and hail, we can finally throw our winter boots to the back of the closet where they belong. For me, this also means pushing all of my sweater dresses to the dark part of the closet, and realizing that my summer clothes consist of sundresses, jean shorts, and bathing suits…not really office attire.
I didn’t think this would apply to a guy’s closet; you wear chinos, button up shirts, and ties all year long. I assumed this meant much of the same wardrobe carrying over, until Reader Dave asked:
Dear SG,
I’d love to see some some posts this time of year about warm-weather style, specifically for the office. As I began to adopt some of your advice over the winter, I found it fun to vary things up with different types of sweaters, layers, etc. However, as the weather gets warmer, I feel that there are fewer options. How can I maintain my new and improved SG self going into the warmer months? What staples should I be shopping for?
My closet was caught a bit off guard by this week’s sudden 80 degree temps, so I’m stuck in an uninspiring, pre-SG polo and khakis combo that has left me feeling pretty average today.
I should point out that our work environment is very casual–short sleeves are widely accepted. Not that this is necessarily a good or bad thing–just throwing it out there.
Business Casual
Short-Sleeve Button Up
As Dave said, in casual offices short-sleeves are totally acceptable, so take advantage of them! They feel a bit dressier and less sporty than a polo, and they come in a variety of patterns and colors. Just avoid pairing ties with them unless you are/want to be the Dwight of your office.
Colored Chinos
Continuing with the bright trend, why not try a pair of colored chinos? Traditional khaki chinos are essential, but there’s no reason why they have to be the end all be all of your work pants wardrobe. I’ve seen you guys rock them in you #OOTW entries, so I know you can make it work for the office. It will definitely make your hot secretary have a double take you when you walk in. Some colors to consider are those with names inspired by nature: moss, salmon, sky blue, rust, and many more.
Light-Weight Cardigan or V-Neck Sweater
General Business Attire
Chambray Tie
Bright Prints
“Suit Required” Business
Linen Suit
Wool is great for the cold, but kind of meh bleh-eh-eh for everything else. If you have to wear a suit everyday over the summer, why not invest in something lighter? A linen suit drapes beautifully, and this shade of blue feels just right with this fabric. Plus, it can work with most colors, such as any of the plaid shirts on BR’s site right now.
Accessories!
It’s a lot harder for guys to show off personal style than girls, especially in the office. We have a LOT more options for appropriate work wear with flair than you guys, so I can see how you can get lost in the polo-and-khakis rut. But if you don’t want to, you don’t have to! Ties, pocket squares, watches, shoes, and patterns on all of them are a great way to make your look feel personal, so don’t be afraid to try bright colors or crazy patterns in these pieces.
Tell Us,
What do you wear to the office when the weather warms up?
Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Gabi Meyers went from Team SG's first-ever intern to a trusted fashion editor and stylist. She currently lives in Chicago with a very cute dog.
