How to Wear Sleeveless Tops at the Office Without Over-Exposure

Knowing how to wear sleeveless tops at the office can protect you from making business casual look too casual. These are 5 tips for going sleeveless at work.

Avoid Over-Exposure. Some summer tops were never meant for office wear. Forget about anything that will reveal too much skin. Even if it looks okay standing still, make sure you can move around comfortably including bending over and reaching without inadvertently flashing your colleagues. Low necks are obvious but also check the arm holes to be sure they're not cut too deep. That said, some scanty tops may work if you layer them correctly. Even if it's cut full, avoid anything too sheer. Keep in mind that some sleeveless tops may look more sheer in bright daylight than in the boutique.

Select the Right Underwear. Business casual is no excuse for visible bra straps. Actually, I don't think anything excuses visible bra straps. Make sure you have a strapless bra or a bra with adjustable straps that will stay put under your sleeveless top. For light weight summer tops, check that your bra lies smoothly without creating an outline. Avoid any contrasting colors that could also make your bra visible at the office.

Focus on Hair Removal. Different countries do have different norms, but many American women have grown up without showing underarm hair and would like to keep it that way. It only takes a second to shave, and you're in the shower anyway. Personally, I think it also makes deodorant more effective.

Minimize the Contrast. Current trends make it easier than ever to find summer tops in nude shades. The lack of contrast between the blouse and your bare skin can help to keep it from looking so bare. The neutral colors also look more appropriate for business casual wear than flaunting bright tropical prints at the office.

Use Cover-Ups. A strategic outer garment can help many sleeveless tops adapt to a business casual look. It can also keep you more comfortable if you're splitting your time between the office that is over air-conditioned and the muggy weather outdoors. Keep a light weight silk or cashmere sweater at the office in a dark neutral color. You can carry even a delicate knit wrap around with you if you keep it in a sleeper bag inside your handbag.

You can wear sleeveless tops at the office and still look professional. Just choose the right summer tops and enjoy a comfortable and stylish business casual look.