Must-Have Work-Appropriate Shoes for the Summer
Dressing professionally while feeling comfortable is a tough balancing act. Not only must you keep in mind your company’s unique dress code and culture, but you also need to integrate bottoms, tops, accessories, and shoes to look clean, neat, and professional. While you may have most of your custom business uniform figured out, in each season, there are different needs regarding your attire. Your footwear is no exception.
Many employees find it challenging to select footwear that offers comfort, functionality, and a professional look in the summer. High temperatures call for breathability and a conservative appearance, but these two needs seem to be irreconcilable. However, if you take a closer look online and in stores, you can find some real gems. Many types are designed to keep you looking professional while staying cool at the same time. Here are the must-have work-appropriate shoes for the summer.
Closed-Toe Flats
When the temperatures soar but you still need to cover your feet for work, look for some cute flats. Wear these with a set of breathable, no-show socks to absorb any sweat and odors that can accumulate after a long day. These look excellent with practically any business casual outfit like custom uniform work dresses, embroidered dressy tops, slacks, and skirts. By covering the toes and front of the feet, flats provide that coverage you need to match the conservative caliber of business clothing.
If your workplace allows sandal-like footwear, then try some slingback flats, which cover the front of your feet and toes but have straps that fasten right under your ankle. This allows just a touch of breathing room behind your foot. For even more air circulation, pick flats that have small design cutouts in the material. This will keep your feet ventilated all day long and minimize any sweating that can occur.
Penny Loafers: A Must-Have Classic
These standard shoes are a classic when putting together a custom business casual work uniform for men. Consider them the fancy male alternative for female flats. Penny loafers offer the same coverage and breathability of flats but with some additional design details on its sole and upper flap. If your workplace honors casual Fridays, subtly cuff the ends of your jeans to allow extra breathability. Always wear absorbent summer socks with your penny loafers to keep them smelling fresh and to protect the inner lining from premature wear and tear.
Breathable Oxford Shoes
Another timeless shoe adored by all, the Oxford shoe can match many of your favorite custom uniform work clothes. Offering a neat yet relaxed look, it integrates the features of a sneaker and a penny loafer with its low-riding shape and laces on top. Since its complete look is more dressy than a sneaker, it looks excellent with slacks, skirts, and polos, as well as jeans and custom work shorts on your days off. To make sure you’re comfortable wearing these shoes in the summer, get a few pairs that use breathable mesh fabric and wear thin socks.
Slip-on Sneakers
While you can’t get away with every style, there are quite a few slip-on sneakers that can match well with your business attire. Pick versions made out of breathable canvas and avoid materials like polyester and leather to stay cool. Avoid any flashy patterns or distracting slogans and colors. Instead, aim for solid black, neutrals, and plain patterns that elevate the mood of your outfit. These shoes work the best in a work culture that embraces a business-casual dress code for the majority of the time. Be sure to take strong consideration of the patterns, materials, and fit you select. Also, keep your attire clean and professional when you wear slip-ons to maintain an air of work-readiness.
High Heels and Pumps
This is the time to dust off your most beloved warm-weather shoes and show them off. Summer is the season to sport high heels and pumps without the need for stockings. However, for protection against bunions and calluses, invest in some stick-on gel pads that provide extra cushioning. This is important when you don’t have the extra cushioning from no-show socks or stockings. High heels and pumps are beautiful, timeless, and appealing. They can match with plenty of business clothing such as wear-to-work dresses, skirts, slacks, capris, and more. To keep this shoe professional, aim for solid, basic colors or non-distracting patterns that enhance your outfit.
These shoes are just a few types that can keep you feeling productive, cool, and professional all summer long.