Summer Fashion for Men and Women on the Job

Whew-hew! Summer is right around the corner. Find out what's hot and what's not for work this season. I spoke with Andy Paige, a NY-based Beauty and Style Expert, to get a sneak peek at the do's and don't's you simply can't afford to miss. "Summer is a time to lighten up with color and textures. You can get away with a fresher look, but fresher does not mean sexy or sloppy! As soon as it gets hot outside, women's clothes tend to get smaller, while men's clothes get untidy." Paige explains. Don't be a fashion mishap! Learn how to have fun with your style, while staying work appropriate. We'll show you just how to pull it off.

WOMEN
DON'T wear shorts or high skirts to work. "Shorts are for the company picnic and you aren't a teenager anymore."
DO invest in a trendy, circle skirt. "They are comfortable, keep you cool and really accentuate your waist."
DON'T wear spaghetti straps to the office without some kind of cardigan covering your arms and don't wear a shirt that shows your bra strap. Short sleeved shirts in bright colors are a fun option.
DO choose one really great piece of jewelry, like a strong pendent or earrings. There's no need to overdo on jewelry in a corporate environment. "Gold is hotter than ever this season!"
DON'T wear a v-neck if you're well endowed. "A v-neck is basically a huge arrow that points directly at your cleavage. A feminine scoop neck is the way to go."
DO buy something in turquoise. "It's the color right now because it looks beautiful with everything and on every skin tone."
DON'T wear flip flops on Friday! Try a sling back or a nice round toe shoe.
DO wear dark denim jeans in a casual office environment. "Nothing too low cut. Nobody wants to see your plumber butt at the office! It should be straight-legged and fit like a trouser."
DON'T overstuff your handbag with items you're going to take to the beach for the weekend. Your bag shouldn't be bigger than a bread box.
DO mix patterns together, as long as the colors blend. Experiment with polka dots and strips.
DON'T skimp on your hair when the weather warms up. "Leave your braids for the weekend and your sloppy ponytail for doing laundry. Wear your hair in a nice, groomed ponytail if you want it off your neck. No scrunchies!"

MEN
DON'T wear short sleeved dress shirts. "This look is so dated and tacky. Unless you work for the geek squad, there's no need to wear that to the office."
DO go with lighter colors such as pink, lavender or yellow. "Men should not be afraid to wear these colors. They look great with a tan. Those Easter egg shades are all the rage."
DON'T get sloppy! Avoid polo shirts that are 5 times your size or pants that fit someone 100 pounds heavier then you. "You must maintain structure in your garments- it's so important."
DO wear khaki suits. They are a nice, crisp option for the office.
DON'T wear sneakers to work. "If you wear it to the gym, you shouldn't wear it to the office. Try a rich koniac shoe color. You don't have to stay with brown or black."
DO wear socks in the office. This is a MUST!
DON'T bring your gym bag to work on Friday because you are heading out for the weekend. "Find a bag that looks a little more professional, that you can wheel into the office. There is no need to bring your garment bag that you've had since your senior year in high school. You don't want to look like you just left a fraternity house."
DO try a simple navy blazer with a bright colored polo shirt or a sear-sucker blazer. Both are a fresh summer update.
DON'T forget to wear an undershirt and take showers! Be prepared for the heat. "Personal hygiene is very much a part of summer fashion. Nobody wants to see pit stains in the office!"
DO invest in a tropical wool suit that will carry you throughout the year. "All you have to do to add to your look is change your shirt and tie! Pretty simple."

Bottom line: Your image is extremely important at the office, regardless of the season. You need to carry that image through in everything you do. A smart tip to remember: In the summer months, add one business piece to your outfit. A great jacket, trousers or a skirt all work. If you incorporate one business piece and make everything else a little more casual, you'll be able to pull off a summer DO beautifully.