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Q. What’s the best suit alternative in this sweltering heat? I can’t bear the idea of wearing a suit in summer, but need to look pulled together and professional on occasion for work. I am more of a pants girl, so I don’t have a lot of dresses or skirts. Thanks!

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A. For women who prefer wearing pants, the key to dressing comfortably in the summer heat for work is to choose lightweight, breathable pieces. We created 3 looks below using skinny summer pants, silk blend slouchy pants and twill trousers. Start by adding a pretty summer blouse which can either be worn by itself or with a belt. Layer a lightweight cardigan or summer blazer over your blouse to change up the look. You can always remove the outer layer when you head outside for lunch or commute to work.

Q. I’m an art professor without an office. So, I’m in search of a creative, put-together tote bag to carry all the stuff needed for class. Any suggestions?

A. Look no further than a stylish diaper bag! They’re full of pockets to keep you organized and often include wipeable surfaces which will help protect your belongings from accidental messes from your art supplies. Here are a few tote-sized diaper bags that are chic enough to carry to and from class.

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Q. I am short (5’2) and pear-shaped but with a chest. Every top is too long for me but I feel like I can’t tuck it in because I have a short torso AND a tummy. All I see are long tops or cute ones tucked in. What are we to do?

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A. It’s very difficult for women with a short torso and an ample chest to tuck shirts in, we end up looking “all boob”. Add a tummy to the equation and it becomes even more difficult. Your best bet is to look for tops that can be worn untucked, that skim your figure without being tight, or are loose fitting without being boxy. An untucked top will also help to balance out your pear shape. Be sure to look for petite sizes which are specifically designed for your 5’2” frame that won’t be too long. Here are some flattering summer options for you:

Q. What exactly is the difference between a regular blazer and a “boyfriend” blazer? I’m an attorney, and I have a closet full of dark suits and cute blazers that I wear to work. Will these work as “boyfriend blazers” over dresses and jeans? I can roll the sleeves up, like I’ve seen in pictures, but most of them are a bit more fitted than the pictures I’ve seen. Does that ruin the look?

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A. When boyfriend blazers first appeared on the scene last year, the term referred mostly to the oversized, somewhat slouchy blazer with a longer length, often with rolled up sleeves. However, in the past year, I’ve seen the term applied to traditional, more tailored blazers as well. Without getting caught up in terminology, or what is or isn’t a boyfriend blazer, what you’re really asking is whether you can wear your tailored suit jackets and blazers with dresses and jeans in a stylish way. You’ll be happy to know, the answer is yes!

You’re on the right track by rolling up the sleeves, this will instantly add a more casual vibe to your work blazers. Keep the look loose and light by keeping it unbuttoned. Try pairing it with everything from flirty dresses and rompers to jeans and shorts.

Q. The ladies here in the office are wondering…can we wear a maxi dress to work? Our office is business casual; however, we cannot wear jeans. Though some women dress in suits/business attire, others wear capris and sandals everyday.

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A. Personally, I think that maxi dresses are too casual and bohemian for the office and should be reserved just for weekends. Of course, there are dressier maxi dresses which work for parties and evening events, but these, too, are not meant for work. That being said, some of us here at StyleBakery feel that you can get away with a maxi dress if you work at a really casual or “trendy” office, or if you save it for summer Fridays.

There are ways to make a maxi look somewhat less “beachy” if you do choose to wear one to work:

1. Avoid strapless maxi dresses unless paired with a jacket or blazer

2. Wear with sandals or heels that are appropriate for your work place. Avoid flip flops.

3. Try adding a blazer or cardigan and even a belt to dress up the look.

The bottom line: use your best judgment. If you aren’t sure if the maxi is appropriate for your office, then it’s best not to wear one.

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