Flexing a sweater outfit in the Philippines is not a first choice for many, especially given the country’s notorious year-round humidity and tropical climate—least of all during peak summer. But when you’re grinding the whole day in an office where the AC is on full blast, relying on just a simple T-shirt or staple button-up can quickly leave you shivering at your desk.
If you can relate, you’ve landed on the right page! We’ve rounded up five easy, chic sweater outfit formulas you can wear in and out of the office without swimming in a pool of sweat or freezing to death.
Open-Knit Sweater + Slip Skirt
Gone are the days when sweaters were only reserved for cool and chilly days because the rise of open-knits is proof that knitwear can also be a summer staple.
Unlike the classic chunky cable-knit, open-knit sweaters are loosely woven, creating visible holes between yarn loops, allowing airflow and maximum breathability while retaining heat-insulating properties.
They also come in a wide range of colorways, but neutral tones like cream and beige are Gen Z and millennial favorites that effortlessly create a chic and modern look, especially when paired with the flowy drape of a slip skirt. This creates an interesting play on textures and adds depth to your outfit.
Don’t forget to finish your look with an undergarment or layer that won’t clash with your chosen open-knit sweater and don a pair of complementing flats or clean leather sneakers to complete your outfit.
Open Knit Sweater + Fluid Pants
If a slip skirt isn’t your style and you prefer something that is commuter-friendly, you can also partner your open-knit sweater with a pair of fluid pants for convenience.
Exuding the same appeal as slip skirts, the high drape and smoothness of fluid pants effortlessly create an interesting texture play with the rugged and stiff fabrication of open-knits while expanding our options between sheeny and non-sheeny fabrics.
The flowy and airy properties of fluid pants also add movement to your look without sacrificing comfort and style, making this AC and summer-friendly outfit a foolproof and chic office ensemble.
Cardigan + Slip Skirt
For an elevated and polished touch to your AC and summer-friendly outfit, the combination of a cardigan and slip skirt also creates an effortlessly chic office look.
Whether you prefer styling it with a cami or T-shirt underneath or wearing it as is, the button-through silhouette of a cardigan creates a polished, office-ready finish.
If you want to take comfort up a notch, you can shed your cardi when grabbing lunch or commuting to work if you have a layer underneath, or opt for lightweight knits if you want to keep the preppy statement. You can also go for cropped cardigans for a contemporary look.
Vest + Button-up Shirt + Mini Skirt/Skort
Layering may not be our first choice when it comes to beating the summer heat, but when worn in the office, this styling technique makes a good, versatile outfit pick without making us overheat.
Channel a preppy style and pair your chunky knit vest and staple button-up shirt with a pleated mini skirt. Once you’re out of the office and back to beating the rush-hour traffic, simply shed that outer layer to create a light academia-inspired look.
For a commuter-friendly alternative, opting for skorts does the trick while keeping your style and comfort in check.
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Cardigan + Midi Dress
Dresses have become the ultimate wardrobe go-to in beating the heat, so if you find yourself wearing this more often in the office during the summer season, pairing it with a handy cardigan can make it AC-friendly.
Whether you prefer to wear it open, buttoned all through, or with only one button fastened, finishing your look with a cardigan creates a polished touch while infusing versatility into your look. Just simply shed your cardi when it’s time to clock out or step out of the sun again to allow ventilation.
Ready to build your chic sweater summer outfits?
Browse ZALORA’s knitwear collection to find lightweight sweaters, airy cardigans, and chic sweater vests built for office AC.
Donning a sweater in the peak of summer heat may sound counterintuitive, but when worn and styled right, this cool-weather staple is sure to make your office looks stylish and functional.
Which of these styling formulas are you excited to try out first? Let us know in the comments below!