Can You Wear Shorts to the Office in Summer? A Stylist’s Guide to Making It Work
- Louisa Gabriel
- Jul 22
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 27
When the temperature rises and the sun comes out in full force, it’s natural for people to start reaching for breezy fabrics, open-toed shoes, and yes — shorts. But the big question remains: Is it appropriate to wear shorts to the office in the summer?
As a personal stylist or image consultant, you’ve probably faced this question from clients looking to stay cool without compromising professionalism. If you’re someone who simply loves fashion, you might be wondering how to strike the perfect balance between seasonal comfort and office-appropriate attire. Let’s break it all down, so you can confidently guide your clients — or your own wardrobe — through this modern-day summer style dilemma.
The Short Answer: It Depends
The answer to whether you can wear shorts to the office isn’t black and white — it depends on several factors, including the company culture, dress code, industry norms, and even climate.
As a personal stylist, understanding these nuances is essential when advising your clients. While creative industries like advertising or fashion may welcome relaxed summer attire, traditional fields such as finance or law often expect more conservative dressing — even in a heatwave.
Know the Office Dress Code First
Before anyone slips into a pair of tailored Bermudas, the first step is to understand the company's dress code. Help your clients review HR policies or observe what colleagues wear day to day. There’s a big difference between “business formal” and “business casual,” and “smart casual” opens even more stylistic doors.
Encourage your clients to ask questions like:
Is the dress code clearly defined?
Do coworkers wear denim, sandals, or sleeveless tops?
Are there summer dress code adjustments (i.e., “casual Fridays”)?
If a company has a flexible dress code or makes seasonal exceptions, shorts might be on the table — with a few caveats.
The Right Kind of Shorts for the Office
Not all shorts are created equal. What works for a beach day or weekend brunch isn’t necessarily going to fly in the boardroom.
Here’s a stylist-approved list of office-appropriate shorts for summer:
1. Tailored Shorts
These are the most polished option. Think of them as the summer version of your favourite dress trousers. High-waisted, pleated, or paper-bag styles in neutral or sophisticated colours can look incredibly chic with a blouse or blazer.
2. Bermuda Shorts
Longer and usually falling just above or at the knee, Bermuda shorts are modest and sophisticated. They work particularly well in business casual offices when paired with structured tops or blazers.
3. Culotte-Style Shorts
These offer more volume and movement and can sometimes look like skirts. In a flowy fabric, they offer elegance and breathability — perfect for creative professionals who love a touch of flair.
What to Avoid:
Cut-offs, distressed denim, or anything frayed
Ultra-short styles (anything above mid-thigh is a no-go)
Tight or clingy fabrics that resemble gym wear
Loud patterns that distract rather than elevate
As a stylist, steer your clients toward fabrics like linen blends, cotton twill, and lightweight suiting materials. These offer structure and comfort — the summer style holy grail.
How to Style Shorts for Work
1. Add a Blazer or Jacket
A structured blazer instantly elevates any pair of shorts. For a fresh summer look, go for lighter shades like ivory, soft grey, or pastel.
2. Polish the Look with Accessories
Closed-toe flats, loafers, or low block heels create a professional finish. A leather tote, statement earrings, or a silk scarf can all enhance the outfit while keeping it refined.
3. Keep the Top Balanced
If the shorts are loose or wide-leg, choose a more fitted blouse or tucked-in button-down. If the shorts are more tailored and narrow, a breezy top with subtle volume can create balance.
Styling Tip: Shorts and the Style Identity
As personal stylists, it’s important to match a client's summer office attire to their style identity. Are they Classic? Romantic? Edgy? Sporty?
A Classic style client may gravitate toward crisp khaki Bermudas, a white Oxford shirt, and loafers.
A Creative type may embrace bold printed culottes with an asymmetrical top and unique accessories.
A Minimalist might opt for monochrome linen shorts with sleek sandals and a clean-cut vest.
Teaching clients how to stay true to their personal style — even when navigating office dress codes — is part of what makes you a standout stylist.
When in Doubt, Dress Up (Slightly)
Here’s a golden rule: If your client isn’t sure, encourage them to dress up rather than down. It’s better to be slightly overdressed in a pair of polished shorts and a blazer than underdressed in something too casual.
Also, suggest that they observe how leadership dresses in summer. If the boss is in shorts and espadrilles, it’s likely fair game. But if leadership sticks to full suits, it’s best to follow suit — literally.
A Word on Confidence and Comfort
Ultimately, the goal is to help your clients feel confident and comfortable — no matter the dress code. When clients feel polished, they perform better, present better, and feel more aligned with their professional image.
And let’s be honest — with global temperatures rising and hybrid work cultures expanding, the idea of summer officewear is evolving fast. Being stylish and heatwave-ready? That’s not only possible — it’s smart.
Final Thoughts: Shorts Can Be Office-Appropriate — With the Right Styling
Yes, shorts can be appropriate for the office — but it’s all about intention and styling. As a personal stylist or image consultant, your job is to guide clients toward clothing that supports both their personal brand and their professional environment.
So the next time someone asks, “Can I wear shorts to work in the summer?” you’ll be ready with a confident, stylist-approved “Yes — if you do it right.”
Embrace the Summer Office Style
In conclusion, wearing shorts to the office can be a stylish and practical choice during the summer months. By understanding the dress code, selecting the right type of shorts, and styling them appropriately, your clients can maintain a professional appearance while staying cool.
Encourage them to experiment with different combinations and find what works best for their personal style. Remember, confidence is key. When they feel good in what they wear, it shows in their work.
Happy Styling!
Louisa 💕