Stimuli

The sun is shining, the kids are out of school, and the beach seems to be calling you to come feel the ocean breeze and work on your tan. Alas, most of us have to work during the days, leaving us with only an hour or so on lunch breaks or quickly after work to enjoy summer’s warmth. In order to maximize your time in the sun, wearing something that is appropriate for the office, but that can be adapted for the beach, will make sure that your toes are being dipped in the sand as soon as possible.

The question here is what’s appropriate. Of course, you won’t be wearing your bathing suit or beach cover-up, but there are many tasteful ways you can pull off your office to beach look without looking unprofessional.

Sundress Sensation
Sundresses are the perfect summer staple. Available in all styles, colours, and fabrics, finding a sundress that works for both work and the beach is a lot easier than you might think if you keep the following in mind:

• Length: Make sure that dress hits you at the knee, or just above. Use the same judgment as you would with any other skirt or dress you would wear to work.
• Fabric: You know that light, breezy, almost see-through fabric? Stay away from it. It might be nice to wear over your bikini at the pool, but your coworkers don’t need to know what kind of undergarments you’re wearing. Opt for a heavier linen, cotton, or cotton blend that will keep you cool and covered.
• Cut: When looking for a dress to wear to the beach, women tend to consider what style of dress will give them the least amount of tan lines, therefore exposing much more skin than would be appropriate for work. Low cut and backless dresses are to be avoided; however, thin straps and even strapless can be appropriate only if worn with a full-sleeved cardigan.
• Accessories: Because sundresses automatically have a more casual look to them, the easiest way to make them work-appropriate is by adding the right accessories. Some gold bangles, brightly coloured necklace, or simple pearl earrings will bring a touch of class, elegance, and sophistication to any dress to choose.

Show off Your Toes

Recent pedicure? Don’t be afraid to show off your pretty toes at the office. Many people, bosses alike, have come around on what used to be faux pas and have embraced open-toed shoes in the summer. Pop your plastic Old Navy flip-flops (only $6 for 2 right now!) in your purse and put on a pair of open-toed flats, strappy wedge heels, or even some fancier gladiator sandals—you’re feet will be thank you for being kept nice a cool.

Considering there are only 94 days of summer every year, it’s important to take advantage of every time the sun shines, when the sky turn that perfect shade of blue, and of course B.C.’s incredibly close access to beaches, parks, and the ocean. Just because you have to be cooped up in your office all day doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the beauty that is British Columbia’s summers, so throw some sunscreen in your bag, show off your new sundress, and sneak out into the sun whenever you can.

by Tanya Colledge
Contributor

Photo Credits:Yellow dress: jacob.ca
Pink dress: hm.com/ca
Black printed dress: reitmans.com
Blue dress: plum.ca