A one step guide to summer workwear

Q. I’d like to look polished during the hot summer months – but don’t want to waste money on something I can’t wear on cooler days. What would you suggest?

A. I get to wax lyrical about my favourite wardrobe staple; the midi dress. With our madcap weather of late it seems like they’re being fully embraced and championed by the shops. The brilliant thing about a midi dress is that you can restyle it for each season. I have ones that I wear all year round – it just takes boots and winter coat for colder weather, and heels and a fitted blazer to be summer-ready.

Black floral, ￡110, & Other Stories; Emilia Wickstead red, ￡1490, MatchesFashion; Green floral, ￡92, Arket

According to a recent report by workwear brand The Fold, more than 50 per cent of business women admit to a last- minute change of outfit in the morning. So why not make life easier for yourself?

I love that a midi dress is just one item of clothing to think about. I also feel at my most confident in that length. Speaking at a panel discussion a few weeks ago, I was incredibly relieved that my midi dress covered my legs, as I was sat on a high stool with the audience looking up at me from foot level. I’ve found certain brands do them best – & Other Stories excels at a well-priced pretty floral number, of which I have a few in my wardrobe.

Emilia Wickstead’s dresses, although serious investments, you will return to time and time again: I feel I can conquer any big moment in mine.

Pansy print, ￡275, Tara Jarmon

LK Bennett always has a lovely selection that are very office appropriate. Although the white and blue geometric print option looks on the summery side, I think it would look great in the autumn with a navy blazer and boots. A print is as pretty as a block colour, and in a way more versatile as you can match it to different coloured accessories. Most websites now have a midi search option which is very helpful; the only problem is that these dresses sell out fast, so keep your eyes peeled and snap them up quickly – before I do.

Isabel Spearman is a brand and image consultant who previously worked as special adviser to Samantha Cameron at Downing Street. Each week , she offers a helping hand dissecting workwear dress codes and offering a modern take on power dressing.

To ask Isabel Spearman your workwear questions, email [email protected] or follow her on instagram @isabelspearman.