The 15 Key Pieces Every Professional Woman Should Have in Her Work Wardrobe

Finding a way to dress comfortably yet professionally in the spring and summer can be a tricky endeavor for most women. Of course you want to look stylish, sophisticated and professional, but how do you maintain an element of comfort as the temperatures rise? Well for starters relax, and read on! With your needs in mind Labellush has created this guide to professional dressing throughout the Spring / Summer. This 15 item guide can take you from the boardroom to a warm evening out while keeping you cool, comfortable and chic.

1. Camisole

It's often said that what you wear under your clothes is equally as important as your visible attire, which is why a basic nude cami tops our lists of recommendations when it comes to building your summer work capsule wardrobe. A nude camisole can help conceal back lines and tummy bulges, camouflage bra colors, and add that extra touch of modesty when required. Pair it under a sheer blouse, white dress shirt, or cardigan to create a sleek and simple foundation when needed.

Shop Camisoles »

2. White T Shirt

Often not given the professional credit that it deserves, we believe that a classic white T shirt is another must have for most warm weather work wardrobes. Not only are classic T's comfortable, but their simplicity works well layered under everything from a tailored blazer, to a cotton cardigan. We recommend buying a few inexpensive but good quality fitted T's so that you can rotate them out and discard them as they wear.

Shop White Tops »

3. Collared Blouse

A classic white collared blouse is another versatile essential that you will find yourself reaching for again and again! For the spring / summer seasons look for a crisp cotton version that provides maximum breath-ability and comfort. When it comes to styling you can wear your collared blouse in hundreds of different ways. Try pairing one tucked into a trendy high-waisted black lace skirt for a sultry meets sophisticated appeal; or, roll up the sleeves and tuck it into a pair of classic trousers for a more relaxed yet mod look.

Shop Collared Shirts »

4. Printed Sundress

Prints are all over the place this season, and dresses are even bigger! Combining the two elements creates a super of-the-moment look that can be dressed up or down, making a printed dress ideal for the office in the warmer months. Try pairing a printed sundress with a light cardigan and cinching the waist with a sleek belt; add coordinating pumps for a stylish yet approachable appearance.

Shop Printed Dresses »

5. Coordinating Blazer

A well structured and fitted blazer in a neutral shade of black, navy or even nude can be worn with almost anything. We recommend you choose a nice breathable fabric and avoid anything with stretch that can become too hot and stuffy. Layer your coordinating blazer over a floral print dress for a juxtaposition that is office appropriate and playful at the same time.

Shop Suits & Blazers »

6. Clean Cut Trouser

A great fitting pair of dress pants can do wonders for your work wardrobe! A classic boot cut or wide leg silhouette looks best on most women- and we recommend trying a high-waisted style to help elongate the leg. If you want to keep it simple, pair your clean cut trouser with a simple tucked in T, big accessories, and a sleek bag; or dress it up with a sheer, flowy blouse and a coordinating blazer.

Shop Pants & Trousers »

7. Vest

A coordinating vest can be worn in a plethora of ways making it an unexpected but incredibly efficient summer work wardrobe piece. Try layering your vest over a sheer blouse, or a simple white T and pairing it with a coordinating skirt for a slightly more casual, menswear inspired take on the classic skirt suit.

Shop Vests »

8. Full Cut Skirt

While you may tend to think a tailored pencil or straight skirt is one of the most office friendly; for spring / summer we recommend an alternative. Try a brightly colored full cut skir tor a-line silhouette and you're sure to stand out among the crowd. For the sake of professionalism, keep your hemline just above the knee, and pair your pick with a conservative top, fitted blazer, pumps, and an updo to balance out its otherwise casual appeal.

Shop Skirts »

9. Flowy Top

Sheer and patterned tops are one of the biggest trends to hit the runways this season. For the office pair them over a camisole for coverage and under a fitted jacket or vest. To avoid looking frumpy juxtapose a flowy top over a more tailored trouser or slim fitting skirt; a wide leg trouser or full cut hemline will add unwanted bulk and is not recommended for most women.

Shop Silk Tops & Blouses »

10. Denim Blazer

The denim blazer is one hot trend that should not be overlooked for your summer work wardrobe. Keep it sleek and classy in a slim fitted, clean cut style, and appreciate the relaxed quality of the denim material itself. You may be pleasantly surprised to see just how well some classic indigo pairs against all the traditional black, navy, brown and tan that compile the rest of our work wardrobe. Style a denim blazer over a classic sheath dress and cinch it at the waist with a belt for a season savvy work worthy look.

Shop Denim Jackets »

11. Bright Tote

Add a splash of summer color to your work wardrobe with a bright, candy colored handbag! Look for tailored styles that feature sophisticated hardware, and make sure you chose a bag large enough to tote around any necessary work gear - thing cellphones, ipads, laptops, tablets, or whatever else you need on hand to get the job done!

Shop Handbags »

12. Designer Flats

Flats are great for rainy days as well as those when you just want to be a bit more comfortable. We recommend trying an animal print, cut out, or embellished pair to update a simple pant suit, skirt ensemble or dress. Ultra bright colors can be utilized in simple flats to add a pop of interest to an otherwise plain outfit.

Shop Designer Flats »

13. Studded Earrings

Studded earrings are great for polishing off a refined work look. However, for spring and summer we like the idea of wearing pearl studs as opposed to a traditional diamond pair. Pearls can be found in various shades such as pink, yellow, cream, bright white and even black. Try an unexpected black or rose colored pair to complete your professional look.

Shop Stud Earrings »

14. Belt

Regardless of the season, no well rounded work wardrobe could be complete without the polish garnered from a fabulous belt! Not only are belts a great way to polish off your work look, but they also add a bonus slimming effect when cinched around the narrowest part of your waist. Designer brands like Tory Burch, and Theory are known for offering some stylish belt selections, but we also recommend checking out your local vintage and thrift shops if you're 'belting' on a budget!

Shop Belts »

15. Nude Pumps

Last but definitely not least we recommend every woman own a pair of comfortable nude pumps. Nude pumps look great with nearly any outfit; plus, they instantly elongate the leg making you look taller and leaner every time you put them on. Of course, "nudes" not just limited to beige - consider mocha, brown, beige, or ivory depending on your skin tone. And try a pair with an almond or rounded toe and a thicker block heel for added comfort.

Shop Pumps »

Dressing for work in the spring and summer doesn't have to be a hot mess! Follow our guide to creating the perfect spring / summer work capsule wardrobe and you'll never be left wondering what to wear come Monday morning.