Back to Work, But Make It Chic.
Dressing for the Office When Summer Is Still In Full Steam
This time of year always catches us a little off guard.
Sydney is still warm, bright and summery - yet suddenly we’re back at work, back into routine, back into real life. And every year, I hear the same question in the boutique:
“I don’t want to look like I’m still on holiday… but it’s too hot for proper autumn clothes. What do I wear?”
This is exactly where French style comes in: not dramatic, not seasonal overhauls, just smart adjustments.
Here’s how I approach my own wardrobe when it’s time to transition back to work.
Start by Editing (and Refreshing What Matters)
Before adding anything new, I always edit first - then I refresh the pieces I know I’ll wear on repeat.
Put away:
Very casual holiday pieces
Anything too short, too sheer, too beachy
Keep bright colours for weekends and days off
Then, update your workwear essentials with a few fresh pieces that instantly pull your wardrobe back together:
Light cotton shirts
Easy skirts and fluid trousers
Dresses that can be styled two ways
Focus on neutral tones and earthy colours
French women don’t chase trends, they refine what they already have.
Keep Summer Fabrics, Change the Styling
Sydney spring still calls for breathable fabrics, but the way you wear them makes all the difference.
What works beautifully:
Cotton poplin shirts: worn slightly undone, sleeves rolled
Lightweight blouses: tucked loosely or half-tucked
Soft cotton or viscose trousers that move with you
The rule: nothing stiff, nothing sweaty, nothing fussy.
Add Structure with One Key Piece
You don’t need layers, you need structure.
I always recommend adding just one of the following:
A light blazer worn open
A tailored cardi over a tank or tee
A more defined waistband or higher-rise trouser
This instantly says “back to work” without feeling heavy or formal.
Let Colour Do the Work
This is when I naturally move away from bright summer tones and into calmer, warmer shades.
Think:
White instead of bright colours
Soft beige, sand, khaki, navy
Touches of black balanced with light fabrics
These colours feel grown-up, confident, and very French.
Elevate with Accessories
When the outfit is simple, accessories quietly elevate everything.
My go-to transitions:
Gold jewellery to warm up workwear
A proper leather bag that pulls the look together
Loafers, ballet flats or a low heel instead of sandals
You don’t need a whole new wardrobe, just better finishing touches.
The Volange Philosophy
When I curate for Volange, I always think about real life.
Pieces that work now, that layer easily later, and that don’t date after one season.
Because going back to work shouldn’t feel like the end of summer, it should feel like stepping back into yourself, with ease, confidence, and a little French attitude.
À bientôt,
Prune xx