The Best Warm Weather Business Casual Looks For Men

There’s a double standard in businesswear for men and women during hot summer months. While women can choose dresses, skirts, and short-sleeve blouses, men are generally relegated to trousers and a button-down shirt. In some workplaces, short sleeves still aren’t even an option for men when temperatures rise and forget about wearing a pair of shorts. However, in this post-lockdown world, office styles are more relaxed than they used to be and it’s the perfect time to push the envelope with business casual looks that hold up to hot temperatures but still look professional. Here are some of the best warm weather business casual looks for men this summer.

Globe Tropical Wool Trouser by Outerknown, $298

Since shorts aren’t typically an option for businesswear, getting the right pair of pants is key. This Globe Tropical Wool Trouser by Outerknown is constructed from tropical wool that’s incredibly lightweight and breathable — making it perfect for summer heat. While you’ll probably need to pair it with a polo or a button-down to make it office ready, this trouser is also versatile enough to wear with a t-shirt for a more casual weekend vibe. As an added bonus, Outerknown is committed to sustainability and ethical production practices in the making of its clothing.

Park Avenue Cap-toe Oxford by Allen Edmonds, $395

The real secret to pulling off a short-sleeve shirt in the office during summer months is the right pair of shoes to dress the look up. These Park Avenue Cap-toe Oxfords by Allen Edmonds add business authority to any office attire. With more than two million pairs sold by Allen Edmonds since 1982, these Oxford shoes are timeless in their appeal and have been worn by business leaders and presidents alike. Moreover, CustomCork™ soles mold to the feet for comfort and the 360º bench welt construction provides durability. Handcrafted in Wisconsin, these shoes are made to stand the test of time and to outlast their fast fashion alternatives. In fact, if they need to be repaired down the road, they can be sent to Allen Edmonds for expert recrafting — making these a pair of shoes that can last for decades or even a lifetime.

Ola Shirt by Alex Crane, $125

Linen is a cool way to go for summer button-downs and this Ola Shirt by Alex Crane is the perfect weight for making linen office-friendly. Made from 100% sustainably-grown French linen, the shirt is sustainably produced with organic dyes and biodegradable enzymes used to soften the material to create a cozy fabric from day one of wear. And, instead of using plastic buttons, this shirt has buttons made from the Brazilian corozo nut for ultimate sustainability.

Classic Fit Deck Pant by Nautica, $32.50

While jeans might not fly for many office dress codes, the right pair of deck pants can feel just as comfortable and not raise any eyebrows. This Classic Fit Deck Pant by Nautica doesn’t wrinkle easily and pairs nicely with a short-sleeve shirt and the right pair of dress shoes. It’s also available in four colors for a quick wardrobe restock of staple summer pants.

Men's Davenport Venetian Loafer by Sperry, $99.95

For slip-ons that are office-friendly, these Men’s Davenport Venetian Loafers by Sperry are both work ready and comfortable. They can also be worn without socks for those extra hot days — although no socks does dress down the look a little. Either way, they add timeless style to office attire and feature good traction. They’re also made to absorb shock and vibration for ultimate driving and walking comfort.

Stretch Poplin Printed Workwear Short Sleeve Shirt by Lucky Brand, $41.70

Sometimes businesswear needs to lighten up, both in terms of weight and personality. This Stretch Poplin Printed Workwear Short Sleeve Shirt by Lucky Brand does both — the whimsical music notes give the shirt character and the lightweight poplin fabric is perfect for even the hottest day. While the pattern might not work for Monday through Thursday in some office environments, it’ll shine on Fridays or work just fine any other day with a more casual dress code. It can also be dressed up by tucking it in with a belt, slacks, and a nice pair of work shoes.

Hemp Print Camp Collar Short Sleeve Shirt by Lucky Brand, $41.70

For a work shirt that’s equal parts cool and retro, this Hemp Print Camp Collar Short Sleeve Shirt by Lucky Brand fits the bill. Made from hemp and featuring an artsy circle print, this short sleeve shirt looks nice tucked in or out and will add flare to any business wardrobe.