3 Tips to Stay Cool at Work this Summer

With the summer heat upon us, you may be tempted to pull out your summer attire of T-shirts and jean shorts for the office simply to stay cool. But it’s important to keep your work attire appropriate, even during the hot summer months. So, while you’re avoiding the summer’s top fashion faux pas, here are a few alternatives to help you stay cool and comfortable at work.

Drink plenty of water. Keeping your body replenished will help you regulate your body temperature and keep you from overheating. Drink plenty of liquids, especially water, to keep your body hydrated, but avoid too much caffeine because it can dehydrate you.

Turn on a fan. If you work in an office, bring a small, portable fan and face it toward you to push away the heat and create a cool breeze. Your co-workers may appreciate the air flow, too, but if they don’t, use a non-oscillating fan. You can also try using a handheld mister or battery-operated fan if you work outdoors or don’t have access to an electrical outlet.

Wear lighter fabrics. Just because you shouldn’t wear tank tops and flip flops to the office doesn’t mean you can’t make summer wardrobe selections. Choose light-colored fabrics if you’re outdoors in the heat to reflect more of the sun. And, if you work indoors, choose light-weight fabrics that breathe and won’t trap the heat next to your body, such as cotton or linen.

Using these tips will help you keep cool while maintaining your professional image at work during the long, hot summer days.