Who says your 9-to-5 style has to be boring? Inject some life into your summer work wardrobe with a pair of nautical-inspired rope print shorts that are perfect for the season. Not only are these a great choice for a casual Friday, but they're professional and polished too, so really, you can sport them any day of the week. Throw a blazer on over a plain white tee and step into some pretty platform pumps to put your best foot forward.
Ann Taylor Rope Print Shorts (Anntaylor.com, $59); Topshop Washed Pocket Tee (Topshop.com, $20); Madewell Duskfall Blazer (Madewell.com, $128); Debora by Miista Pump (Solestruck.com, $255)
When picking out an appropriate pair of shorts for the office, you’ll definitely want to pay close attention to length. In fact, you can even use the same dress code rule you followed back in school. Put your arms by your side and see where your fingertips fall. If your shorts are longer than your fingertips, great; you're good to go. If not though, leave 'em at home. And remember, no denim please, unless you work in a super-casual office environment.
Club Monaco Marcia Short (Clubmonaco.com, $170); REDVALENTINO Crepe Top (Net-a-porter.com, $295); Dune Hummingbird Jeweled T-Bar Heeled Sandal (Dunelondon.com, $136)
You can never go wrong with a pair of pleated shorts that look like a skort. And because it's summer, why not go bold? These babies are made of a soft silk crepe de chine and have that high fashion it-girl vibe that's sure to capture the attention of your co-workers and boss. Style yours with a silky button-down blouse and d'orsay sandals for a sophisticated look that's oh so comfy yet says you mean business.
J Crew Silk Skort (Jcrew.com, $128); Equipment Signature Silk Blouse (Modaoperandi.com, $200); Sam Edelman Brayden Metallic D'Orsay Flats (Cusp.com, $110)
Short suits have been all over the runway and the red carpet for the past several years, so if you're thinking of trying out the tailored trend for summer, we say go for it. Instead of doing the whole sexy blazer sans a shirt underneath it, however, cover up with a conservative sleeveless blouse and opt for a pair of lightweight cotton shorts in a muted color. You’ll easily beat the heat, plus you'll be prepared for any frigid temps inside too. Ugh, gotta love that air conditioning…
Zara Blazer With Zips (Zara.com, $100); Zara Cotton Shorts (Zara.com, $40); H&M Sleeveless Blouse (HM.com, $25); BCBG Jash High Heel Slingback Dress Sandal (Bcbg.com, $225)
More summer fashion
7 Beach-ready rompers we want in our closets
Wacky sunglasses that we’d still totally rock
Crop tops for every body shape