How to Dress for All Those Summer Work Events

Summer is the time when many companies try to mix it up and make a real effort to keep employees happy–since they’re sitting in an office all day while staring outside at the sunshine. This includes corporate retreats, outings and parties. A barbecue at your boss’s house is very different than a happy hour with your co-workers. And what about a boat party? How the heck do you look professional when your hair and skirt are blowing in every direction? Well we talked to some experts, so you don’t find yourself in a string bikini at a party with no one in bathing suits.

Jenny Cao-Wu of career fashion site Freshionable said:

For off-campus gatherings in general, I think the main concern when it comes to summer fashion is the risk of revealing too much skin. Rather than wearing shorter skirts or tops that bare a lot of skin, young women should stick with clothes that feature classic silhouettes, but updated prints (floral and geometric prints are very on trend) or accents like a neon trim. The right prints and accents can make the outfit look and feel more modern, while classic silhouettes like the A-line dress will be appropriate in all settings.

But just because you have to be more buttoned-up than usual, it doesn’t mean you can’t wear what you want.

Nicole Busch is a Style for Hire stylist, handpicked and trained by Stacy London of “What Not to Wear.” She told Levo, “When attending a casual work function, this is a great way to express yourself. But remember, you are still representing yourself and your company.”

The Boat Party

Jennifer and Rahiel, co-founders of SpoiledLittleLAGirls.com, said play with the nautical look and grab a simple white t-shirt you don’t mind getting a bit damp with a pair of striped shorts. Complete the look with a parka to keep warm as the sun sets, and a bib necklace to add some sparkle. Ahoy!

Heather Crotty, Director of Marketing for TransVoyant.com, says make sure the amount of skin you are showing is appropriate (watch the cleavage and skirt length) because you never know who you will run into at these events (e.g. executives and clients that you are trying to impress). ”Wear something that is comfortable and fits with the event because nothing will kill your confidence level more than struggling with high heels at a lawn party or fighting to keep a flowy skirt down on a breezy boat trip,” she told Levo.

The Barbecue/Park/Garden Party

Jennifer and Rahiel, of SpoiledLittleLAGirls.com, say this is the time to bring out the pretty sundresses and cardigans! As long as the hemline is appropriate, you can have a lot of fun here with prints. The most important thing is to feel confident and comfortable.

Sara Zamikoff, of Emporium, says her number one rule is NO FLIP FLOPS.

There are no circumstances in which flip flops are appropriate for a work event. Swap out the Havaianas for an embellished flat—particularly one with a peep toe. Sandals and wedges are also appropriate footwear. For an easy go-to outfit, the sundress is always a classic piece. You can layer it up with a scarf or cashmere cardigan for a more demure look. Just keep in mind that you never want to show too much cleavage.

Another great way to look chic and stay cool is shorts. You’ll want to make sure they hit you slightly above the knee and don’t show too much skin. Pair with a blouse, flats and some statement accessories.