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"  It got up to 86 degrees last week, and I&amp;#039;ll be the first to say that it&amp;#039;s far too early for it to be this hot. Plus, if your office is anything like mine, the air conditioner is already going full-blast, resulting in chills inside and sweatiness outside. The midwest is notorious for its hot, sticky summers, but gauzy skirts, dresses and shorts, though perfect for super-warm weather, don&amp;#039;t cut it at work. I keep a few staple pieces in my summer wardrobe that appear professional no matter what the temperature. They&amp;#039;re perfect for those 90-degrees-and-above days, whether they arrive in May or August. 1. A denim pencil skirt \u2014 My favorite piece for casual Fridays, this bottom is also great for transitioning to fall. Just add boots and a scarf! 2. Lightweight cardigans \u2014 I have two from J. Crew, and they&amp;#039;re perfect for throwing over a shell when I get cold at my desk. Three-quarter length sleeves and thinner fabric mean they also work when I have to run an errand outside my office building. 3. Professional summer dresses. Save the strappy stuff for the beach. \u2014 A work dress should be made of a slightly thicker fabric, and stop at the knee (or close to it). Sleeveless is okay, depending on your office dress code, but spaghetti straps are a no-no. 4. Dressy sandals \u2014 Again, if the rules allow, sandals will keep your feet cool all day. Peep-toe pumps are a more professional alternative for the summer months.  Catherine Hageman dispatches fashionista tendencies fit for a corporate career on Small Town, Big Wardrobe. "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/a12314/summer-work-wardrobe/>