Don’t panic, but this blog has been taken over – just for today! – By Dawn Stanyon of Professionality, a personal brand and professional dress blog.  So if you were expecting a fabulous branding and style post by Natalie, come back later.  I promise not to hold her hostage for long.  But wait!  She’s already escaped and run over to Styles by Ola. I hope you’ll read this post before you go to find her.

How to wear a dress or pants to work and then after in the summer

 How to wear a dress or pants to work and then after in the summer by professionality

How to dress for work when it’s hot outside

What are the top mistakes professionals make when it’s steaming hot out? I’m not talking about after-hour mistakes at Las Vegas conferences or leaving-work-at-four-o’clock-because-it’s-five-o’clock-somewhere kind of mistakes: I’m talking about the professional attire choices we make over and over again during warm-weather months. ‘Cause it’s hot out, gosh darn it! And it’s freezing cold in the office with the air conditioning. And I want to wear those cute shorts I just bought! (Please list these complaints under #firstworldproblems). Here are 5 tips to keep it professional and comfortable.

1. Flip-flops and strappy sandals are for the beach or backyard not the workplace.

Consider peep-toe shoes or sling backs, if you want your feet aerated. 71% of Americans surveyed in the Opinion Research Corporation poll believe flip-flops are not work appropriate. Why? They distract your co-workers when you go flapping by; they don’t cover up that nasty peeling pedi that you haven’t rectified; and they aren’t considered safe or appropriate footwear in many businesses.

2. Cotton, crepe and a more relaxed fit.

Less-structured and lighter-weight summer dresses and pants naturally lend themselves to comfort (like the 3.1 Phillip Lim Crepe Trousers in the pic above). A relaxed pair of pants or a swing dress in the right fabric feels cooler and looks cooler. Suggestion: Keep the moo-moos and maxi dresses for summer parties.

3. Second layer keeps it professional and they are removable! 

Keep a jacket or two in a work closet (or on the back of your chair) so you can quickly grab it for meetings where you need to carry your professional image forward. Lightweight or linen blazers – lined, partially lined or not-lined-at-all – can be very affordable. And consider a ¾ sleeve jacket – gives your arms room to breath.

4. Lighter = Cooler. 

In the office, wearing a white cotton blouse isn’t going to keep you any cooler, really, than a black cotton blouse (in the sun, that’s a different story). But we humans just feel cooler in lighter colors. I’m sure there’s science behind this – let me know if you know the technical reasons for this. I’m just here to say: invest in lighter-toned clothing for the hot months. Also, consider a light-toned purse or brief case (beige, white, cream) and put away your big black satchel. Pair the light colors with bright colors. A white dress with bright scarf: A pop of watermelon, lime or lemon looks as refreshing as the fruits actually taste.

5. Remember your #personal brand.

Yes, I feel exactly the same way: When it’s hot out, I just want to be comfortable. I understand. Use some of the above tips to dress professionally and feel just a little cooler. Because if what you’re wearing is a disconnect from your professional and personal brand, people will take note. Will it end your career? Nope. Will people remember that you wore the strapless dress to a meeting? Yup. Be remembered for your intelligence, skills, humor and determination – not your hot-weather faux pas.

And jam those flip-flops into your light-colored bag so you can wear them on the commute home!