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Ask An OC Expert: Dressing For Work During The Summer Heat

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Summertime heat can bring on great displeasure when traveling out and about, and particularly for those who plan on staying indoors for a lengthy period of time. If you're one of the many who will find themselves indoors at the office this summer, you can find relief with these dress-for-work tips from OC expert Sophie Mae. Sophie provides expert tips on how to keep cool and look stylish for the office during the summer.

Sophie Mae Style
(credit: Sophie Mae Style)

Sophie Mae
Fashion and Wedding Stylist
Orange County, CA 92626
(714)-213-0462
www.sophiemaestyle.com

Sophie Mae is a premiere Orange County fashion stylist who also operates out of Los Angeles and San Diego. Specializing in wardrobe and special events styling, she has dedicated her career to teaching women to embrace their own unique sense of style. Raised in Orange County, Sophie's passion for fashion grew while working with Teen Vogue in early 2003. She sharpened her eye for color, shape and design while working with several industry professionals and soon began styling for designer fashion shows and independent films. According to her website, Sophie "has gained hands-on industry experience while working with retailers such as Nordstrom, Estee Lauder, Barney's New York and designer consignment boutique, onQueStyle. She has also styled for high-fashion labels including Christian Dior, Donna Karan, Roberto Cavalli and Versace." Sophie offers several personal shopping and styling services to suit every lifestyle budget. Dress UpDresses are easy and breezy, making them the perfect alternative to suits when the weather begins to heat up. There are so many great dress styles this season, so you're sure to find a few that suit your office style. Look for dresses made of 100 percent cotton, as they will hold their shape in the heat. This way you'll still look great for drinks after 5pm.

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Crop It
The crop pant is huge for spring/summer because it is feminine, yet also very work appropriate. Look for a slim-leg style that hits just above the ankle. These can be worn with a classic pump or heeled sandal, which will create the illusion of a longer leg. Don't shy away from experimenting with brighter colors. Black and navy are classics, but red or green are right on trend for summer.Go LightNo one wants to wear thick clothing to work when it's 90 degrees outside. That's why it's a great idea to invest in quality, lightweight fabrics for summer. Fabrics like silk, chiffon and cotton are always a good choice because they don't wrinkle easily and will keep you feeling and looking cool in your cubicle.

Loosen Up
We all know that tight clothing isn't office appropriate and there's nothing worse than sitting at the computer in sticky clothes all day. Try to wear items that float away from the body like A-line skirts or tailored wide-leg trousers. Just remember to balance your look by wearing a fitted top or lightweight blazer that comes in at the waist.
Cap It Off
Though sleeveless blouses are a no-no in the corporate world, a cap sleeve blouse can really save you when the office starts to heat up. A cap sleeve style will give you the coverage you need to feel comfortable, but will also keep you cool all day. Bring a blazer or cardigan with you for meetings and simply take it off when you go back to your desk

Related: Best 2014 Summer Fashion Events In OC

Barbara Akowuah is a freelance journalist based in Southern California. As a fashion examiner who is privy to style, Barbara loves to write about fashion and how it relates to the Los Angeles scene. Barbara loves to dish out the latest trends, style tips, and inside scoop. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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