Hot desking – how to find the perfect look at the office when the heat is on
KNOWING what to wear in a stuffy office during the middle of a summer-long heatwave can be a bit of a challenge.
During the hot weather Irish men often let their sartorial standards slip.
While in your day-to-day life wearing flip flops and football shorts may be acceptable, that probably won’t be the case in the office.
It can be a difficult to strike the right balance.
Are flip flops OK? How much casual should there be in ‘smart casual’?
And what should be avoided at all costs?
Open-toe sandals for one, according to leading stylist, Darren Kennedy.
He says that feet should remain covered.
And anything that’s too short, just don’t do it.
Let’s not forget the GAA jerseys that usually crop up at this time of year.
It’s not appropriate for the office, Mr Kennedy says, pointing out that there are unwritten rules that you’re best to follow when in an office environment.
“It’s about using your common sense, but anything you choose to wear, you need to be confident about what it says about you,” Mr Kennedy explained.
“You should always have your feet covered.
“So never wear open-toe sandals.
“I wouldn’t wear any open-toe footwear into the office.
“If you really want to wear shorts, then do it.
“I’d say chinos would be what I would be more inclined to wear.”
While more loosely fitted clothing would be comfortable, it can’t look too relaxed, he added.
He also recommends opting for lightweight fabrics and loose fitting cuts.
“Anything with a collar is always good, whether that’s a polo shirt, a linen shirt or a lightweight shirt with sleeves rolled up.
“Nothing too fitted, but you don’t want to look too sloppy either.”
A good idea is keep an eye on what your boss is wearing.
“He or she probably won’t rock to
up to the office in a GAA top,” Mr Kennedy points out. With his advice ringing in my ears, I headed to Penneys and selected a pale blue suit jacket (€45), trousers (€22), and a simple white T-shirt (€2.50).
I finished it off with a pair of white sneakers (€16).
I also spoke to menswear buyer Alison Daly, with Arnotts, who said your work outfits should reflect the ethos of the company you work for. “If it’s quite corporate roll up the sleeve of a shirt or opt for a formal shortsleeve shirt instead. If you can get away with not wearing a tie, then keep the top button open of a fresh coloured shirt with nice internal trim – see Jacques Britt and add a pocket square for a more polished look,” she says.
“If the office has a more casual environment, light weight chinos rolled up are a great option.”