Fashionable Office Wear for Women in the Summer 2009

In 2009, casual styles are more appropriate in the workplace than ever before. Whereas a decade or two ago you couldn't be seen without a formal dress, now you can wear a broad variety of clothing to work. Just remember, the best person to follow for an appropriate style on fashion is always, first, your boss. Secondly, though, it's time to become more casual and comfortable in the office. Formal dresses aren't required anymore (for most jobs, at least). Here are the top five new trends that you should wear to the office during the summer of 2009:

Straight Skirts
No more dresses that come down to your ankles, ladies. For this summer, you'll need straight skirts that come to about your knees. They should be solid in color not too complex or intricately designed. This classy skirt is professional yet fashionable, making it a great choice for the office. You can view some of the straight skirts or purchase them online here. When buying these skirts, stick with modest colors that won't attract too much attention. Black or navy blue are strong choices. The darker colors emulate professionalism while you are able to wear a comfortable and stylish skirt to work.

Handbag
Handbags aren't small this summer, so don't be jumping for any of those. Instead, look for the colorful, well-designed, large handbags. The best colors for handbags this year are red, black, and olive, while almost any pattern will work. Reptile and plait leathers, along with check fabric are also strong choices for handbags this summer. Handbags are a great way to compliment your outfit and add professionalism to the way you dress. You can buy handbags at your local department store or mall, but remember, the highest quality handbags always come from Italy, England, Germany, France, and Sweden.

Pants
Jeans are a great choice if the weather cools down a bit. They're formal and acceptable in most office work places. Additionally, they're very comfortable so you don't have to spend your day fixing your dress or skirt. Some of the time, cropped pants are okay, too. Cotton pants are also a solid choice because they are professional and appropriate. However, it's important to check the company's dress code before trying out different pairs of pants in your workspace environment. The last thing you'd want is to be called out for what you're wearing. If these are acceptable, though, cotton pants are probably your best shot for the approaching warm weather and comfort in the work space.

Collared Shirts
Yes, women can wear collared shirts in the work place, too, and be stylish at the same time. For example, at Rebecca & Drew, you can get a specially fit button-down shirt that takes into account your bra size, height, and body type. You can choose how tight you want it to be, or whether you want the traditional look. Then, you move onto fabrics, colors, patterns, and finally end with a price generally ranging from $150 to $200. While collared shirts for women are expensive because there are many details that you must take into account, it's well worth the price and a great choice for the office during the spring of 2009.

Shoes
Celebrate, you don't need high heels this year! Short heels and dark colored shoes are more comfortable and fashionable when suiting up for the office, now. While the sharp-toed ending may not fit all women, it's certainly acceptable in office environments. A large buckle on the top of the shoe is also very stylish, or any other kind of print that goes on there. Either way, have your shoes compliment your style, but most of all, be comfortable in them.