Authority Hacks for Hot Weather

How do you project a business-like presence when the mercury edges up? This is the question the southern ladies have been asking and now, a bit earlier than normal for Spokane, the question moves to my front burner, as well.

Details that add authority:

  1. A collar. A collared shirt, whether a woven button-up or a polo even, beats a tee or tank every time.
  2. A cardigan can often stand in for a jacket, with the added bonus of not getting wrinkled. In the summer, I usually try to throw a cardigan in my purse for when I enter air conditioning.
  3. High contrast color schemes such as black & white, navy & white, and so on, project greater authority.
  4. The best: a tailored dress.
  5. When substituting a skirt and top, the top must not be revealing!

A brief word about fabrics:

  • Silk, I’m told, is the warmest fabric known to man. Not a good choice for summer, although it commonly gets used.
  • When wearing white, be decent! It should be lined.
  • Don’t worry so much about linen wrinkling as it’s worn. But I don’t like to choose it for something that I’m going to take on and off.

Hey, these are my favorite summer business casual looks, what are yours?

6 thoughts on “Authority Hacks for Hot Weather”

  1. 😉 Just for fun, I’ll argue the silk point!

    I think it makes a great deal of difference how the silk is manufactured, the weight of the garment, and naturally the cut and structure.

    My Easter dress is a lightweight silk jersey — it is most appropriate for spring/fall and cool summer days. It can be worn in winter, but a sweater is helpful.

    I have a silk charmeuse baby doll top that is summer exclusive. Good for the hottest of days.

  2. I’m a huge fan of a collared, cotton shirt — sleeveless, short-sleeved, or rolled-up long sleeves all work and always look put-together in my book. I especially like the fitted shirts.

    Jody

  3. Pingback: The Space Between My Peers » Just Linking: May 25th, 2007

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