It’s a truism that it’s easier to dress for winter than it is for summer. And that’s particularly true if, like me, you live in Britain. Given our climate, it’s no surprise that our year-round go-tos tend to lean into the safety of British heritage – think blazers, brogues and a swishy coat. Summer? Less tradition, more confusion.
At no time is that confusion more keenly felt than when it comes to dressing for the office in summer. Assuming your workplace doesn’t call for business suits and ties every day – and, if it does, you have our condolences – then summer wardrobing in front of colleagues can be a minefield. Suddenly people start to confuse “smart casual” with “barbeque dad” and introduce T-shirts that they last wore clubbing in 2004. I once worked in an office where being “the first guy in shorts” when the clocks went back was a badge of honour. Don’t be that guy. Instead, follow MR PORTER’S indispensable guide. Behold: the dos and don’ts of summer officewear.