How to Dress for the Office in the Hot Summer
When the mercury rises and the city starts to swelter, getting dressed for the office becomes less about expressing personal style and more about survival. Whether you’re commuting through the humidity of the London Underground or dashing between meetings in Manchester, one thing’s for certain: summer office dressing is a balancing act between looking sharp and staying cool. So, how do you dress for the office in summer without sacrificing professionalism?
That’s where we come in. At T.M.Lewin, we’ve been dressing working men for over a century. Our business suits, business shirts, and business trousers are crafted not just for boardroom confidence, but for seasonal performance. With breathable fabrics, lightweight structures and tailored cuts that still mean business, our summer range is designed for the man who wants to look cool and stay cool — from Tube platforms to top-floor offices.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the essentials of dressing smartly when the temperature soars. We’ll cover the best summer business suits for men, breathable shirts that can be worn with or without a tie, trousers that move with you, and the accessories that tie it all together.
So, if you’ve been asking yourself how to dress for the office in summer, read on — this is your shortcut to seasonal office style that doesn’t wilt in the heat.
Selecting Summer-Ready Business Suits
The cornerstone of any professional wardrobe is the suit — but not all suits are created equal when it comes to summer. A traditional wool-heavy ensemble might be fine in December, but in July? You'll be dreaming of air conditioning before your morning coffee. That’s why choosing the right business suits for summer is essential.
Start with the fabric. For summer business suits, men should look for lightweight wool, cotton-linen blends or high-twist wool — fibres that breathe and wick away moisture. These materials not only keep you cooler, but they also drape beautifully, holding their shape while allowing for a bit of movement. If you're in and out of meetings or hopping on and off trains, you’ll appreciate a fabric that moves with you.
Fit matters too. Slim or tailored fits are ideal in warm weather — they sit close enough to look sharp, but without the excess fabric that traps heat. A half-lined or unlined jacket will reduce bulk and improve breathability. It’s the kind of design detail that makes all the difference on a muggy afternoon in Canary Wharf or during a sticky commute through Victoria Station.
When it comes to colour, think light. While navy remains a safe staple, light grey, beige, and even pastel-toned suits can feel fresh and seasonally appropriate without straying into overly casual territory. Pairing a sand-coloured suit with a crisp white shirt is a classic warm-weather move.
At T.M.Lewin, our business suits are crafted with seasonal elegance in mind — think lightweight constructions, modern silhouettes, and versatile tones that carry you from Monday morning meetings to Thursday evening drinks with ease. The best part? They look just as good when the temperature dips again come September.
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Choosing Business Shirts for Summer Comfort
If there’s one garment that works the hardest in your wardrobe come summer, it’s your shirt. Not only does it sit directly against your skin, but it also carries the weight of your professional appearance — especially when you’ve ditched the tie and gone blazer-free. That’s why picking the right business shirts is crucial.
Let’s talk fabrics. When it comes to summer business shirts for men, breathable cotton poplin, linen, or a cotton-linen blend are your best mates. These materials help regulate temperature and allow for air circulation, keeping you cooler for longer — even on those packed commuter trains or sun-trapped office windows.
Fit is just as important. A slim or regular cut allows for airflow without sacrificing structure. Some of our shirts also incorporate moisture-wicking technology, which is a real game-changer for men who need to stay presentable through high-pressure presentations or all-day sessions.
Style-wise, lighter tones work best — crisp whites, sky blues, or subtle pastel hues offer that clean summer feel while remaining versatile. You can also lean into small patterns like a fine check or stripe for added interest. Need to look smart without overheating? Roll the cuffs for a relaxed finish, or go tieless with the top button undone. It’s a simple move that adds comfort without compromising your look.
T.M.Lewin shirts are made with both form and function in mind. Our business shirts balance style, comfort, and wearability. Whether you’re suiting up or keeping it casual with chinos, they’re the kind of shirts that work hard and wear well — all summer long.
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If there’s one thing every man needs when dressing for the office in summer, it’s a pair of trousers that can keep up. Whether you’re seated at your desk or rushing for the 8:14 at Euston, your trousers should be breathable, comfortable and smart. Thankfully, our business trousers do all three.
Fabric comes first. Lightweight wool or cotton blends are ideal for summer business trousers, offering structure without the stuffiness. These materials provide enough give for long days and commutes while maintaining their tailored shape.
Cut matters too. Opt for slim or tailored fits that taper neatly through the leg — not only do they flatter most builds, but they also create a sleek silhouette that pairs effortlessly with a business shirt or blazer.
Keep the colours neutral. Think navy, stone, grey or khaki — tones that are endlessly versatile and easy to mix with everything else in your summer wardrobe. These shades work beautifully with lighter shirts and make pulling together your morning outfit a breeze.
At T.M.Lewin, our business trousers are designed with movement and modern office life in mind. They're breathable, durable, and effortlessly smart — whether you're presenting to clients or heading out for a working lunch.
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Completing Your Summer Office Outfit
Dressing well in summer doesn’t stop at shirts and suits — it’s the finishing touches that make a look feel intentional.
Start by coordinating. A light grey business suit with a pale blue shirt? A classic. Khaki trousers paired with a crisp white shirt and a pastel pocket square? Effortlessly cool.
Accessories can make or break it. A lightweight silk tie or a linen pocket square can elevate even the simplest ensemble. Just remember — summer style is about balance. If you’re going bold on accessories, keep the suit neutral.
Don't overlook the belt. A clean leather belt adds polish and holds everything together — literally. It’s the kind of detail that gets noticed.
At T.M.Lewin, we’ve curated a full range of summer-ready business suits, shirts, trousers and accessories to help you look your best — even when the weather’s at its worst. Because staying cool and looking smart? That’s the ultimate summer power move.
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