business casual

A Patterned Skirt Is Your Secret Weapon for Getting Dressed in the Summer

Photo: Nabile Quenum

Figuring out what to wear to work shouldn’t be a bore. To make your weekdays easier, welcome to Business Casual. Every Wednesday, we’ll highlight the best office-appropriate clothes, whether it’s for the job you have or the one you want.

Summer at the office is a tricky time. Everyone’s feeling relaxed and the weather’s so hot that most places let their dress codes slide a bit. Those work-appropriate clothes in sober shades of gray, black, and navy suddenly seem too stuffy when the sun is shining brightly. That’s where a fun, patterned skirt comes in — a full, calf-skimming one is stylish and professional but feels appropriately festive this time of year. Plus, since they’re so eye-catching you don’t have to do much styling. Tuck in a button down or add a sleeveless top plus some heels or sandals and you’re ready to face the day. The best part? Almost all our favorites are on major sale right now. Scroll ahead to check them out.

Superfine accordion pleats make this skirt look extra expensive. Try it with a pale pink blouse for especially light and summery outfit.

Don’t let the fact that it’s styled with a crop top deter you from wearing this polka-dotted skirt to the office. Swap with a white button-down and you’re good to go.

Most people make a beeline for Self-Portrait’s lacy dresses so sleeper hits like this pretty red skirt wind up on discount with plenty of sizing available.
Original Price: $340

This wrap skirt features askew banker-esque stripes and feels at place at both creative and more conservative environments. Plus, it’s 70 percent off.
Original Price: $715

Not into loud colors but want some patterned fun in your wardrobe? Try this black-and-white number instead.
Original Price: $268

Photo: Tsui, Diana

For the woman who isn’t into florals, these stripes are just as striking, especially against a white background.
Original Price: $495

We loved the white version of this Tibi print when it came on a dress and now the black colorway is on sale.
Original Price: $495

Here’s one skirt you can wear well into fall thanks to its muted tones.
Original Price: $595

If you want a little more action in your skirts, this one has a slit that reaches mid-thigh and is better suited for very creative environments.
Original Price: $375

You can also buy the matching top if you want an outfit that could pull double duty for work and fancy weekend dinners.
Original Price: $330

The asymmetric ruffle cascading down the side was made for walking around outside on your lunch break.

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Your Summer Secret Weapon for the Office: Patterned Skirts