• Home
    • Start Here
  • Shop my top picks
  • Styling Tips
  • Body Types
    • Hourglass Figure
    • Pear Shape
    • Apple Body Type
    • Rectangle Body Type
    • Inverted Triangle Body Type
    • Must Know
  • Youtube
  • Outfits
  • Style over 40
  • About
    • Contact Us

Petite Dressing

Dress for your Body Type and Height

ClassyTrendy · May 31, 2025

15 Perfect Summer Workwear Pieces For Women In Their 40’s

Sharing is caring!

  • Share
  • Tweet
  • Flipboard

As the sun shines brighter and days stretch longer, it’s time to refresh your summer wardrobe with pieces that effortlessly blend style and professionalism. Whether heading into the office or engaging in client meetings, women deserve workwear that not only elevates their appearance but also offers comfort during the warmest months. From versatile blazers that transition from day to evening, to chic dresses that pair well with stylish sandals, we’ve curated a selection of 15 perfect workwear pieces that embody sophistication and ease. Embrace summer’s vibrant energy while maintaining your signature elegance with these essential additions to your closet.

Table of Contents

  • 1. Classic Collar Jacket
  • 2. Linen-Blend Wide-Leg Pants
  • 3. Silk Shell Top
  • 4. Organic Cotton Shirtdress
  • 5. Block-Heel Sandals
  • 6. Geometric Print Satin Midi Skirt
  • 7. Ruffle V-Neck Blouse
  • 8. Double-Breasted Peak Lapel Blazer
  • 9. Polo Top
  • 10. Mixed Media Shift Dress
  • 11. Long Open Front Wool & Cashmere Cardigan
  • 12. Straight Leg Pants
  • 13. Rib Cardigan
  • 14. Tie Front Long Sleeve Shirtdress
  • 15. Belted Wide-Leg Jumpsuit

1. Classic Collar Jacket

Petite Dressing
Petite Dressing

Embracing a classic collar jacket is a smart choice for summer workwear, especially when paired with a fitted blouse and tailored trousers. The structured silhouette of the navy blue jacket adds a touch of professionalism, while the soft fabric ensures breathability. Complementing it with a white blouse creates a timeless contrast that brightens up the ensemble. Opting for tailored black trousers grounds the look, allowing for sophistication and comfort during the workday. Plus, the overall fit enhances your silhouette while allowing ease of movement – essential for a busy schedule. It’s a chic way to showcase your style while remaining office-appropriate.

2. Linen-Blend Wide-Leg Pants

Petite Dressing

Wide-leg pants are a summer favorite, especially in a linen-blend fabric that offers a perfect combination of comfort and elegance. The relaxed fit of tan pants not only promotes airflow but also flatters a variety of body shapes, making them versatile for different occasions. Pairing them with a light beige tank top creates a harmonious look that radiates a chic, effortless vibe. A thin belt accentuates the waist, enhancing your figure while minimalist jewelry adds just the right touch of sophistication. This outfit embodies that ideal balance between polished and relaxed, allowing you to transition smoothly from meetings to casual lunches with ease.

3. Silk Shell Top

Petite Dressing
Petite Dressing

A silk shell top is an undeniable wardrobe staple that elevates any work outfit, particularly in a soft blush shade that flatters most skin tones. Tucking it into high-waisted black trousers not only enhances your shape but also creates a clean, sophisticated line. This pairing works brilliantly for summer, as the lightweight silk fabric drapes beautifully, ensuring comfort even during warmer days. Simple drop earrings contribute to a refined yet understated elegance, striking the perfect tone for any office environment. By incorporating such luxurious textures, you can effortlessly exude confidence and style, making a positive statement in any professional setting.

4. Organic Cotton Shirtdress

Petite Dressing

Opting for an organic cotton shirtdress is a game-changer for summer workwear. This fabric choice not only prioritizes comfort but also aligns with sustainability—a value increasingly important in today’s fashion landscape. The light gray color strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and versatility, making it easy to transition from a business meeting to after-work events. The addition of a belt cinches the waist, enhancing your silhouette without sacrificing ease. Pair it with elegant flats, and you’ve crafted a polished yet relaxed look that embodies effortless elegance, perfect for those long summer workdays.

5. Block-Heel Sandals

Petite Dressing

Block-heel sandals are the unsung heroes of summer footwear, offering the comfort of a flat with the chic elevation of a heel. By selecting a neutral color, you can effortlessly coordinate them with a variety of outfits, like the beige midi pencil skirt and fitted white button-down combo. This pairing exudes casual sophistication while allowing you to express your personality through color. The stability of block heels lends confidence to your stride, making them ideal for everything from office meetings to lunch dates. Embrace this trend for a laid-back yet stylish approach to summer workwear that won’t leave your feet aching.

6. Geometric Print Satin Midi Skirt

Petite Dressing

A geometric print satin midi skirt can inject a dose of fun into your summer work wardrobe. This vibrant piece not only showcases your bold sense of style but also elevates classic silhouettes when paired with a simple white top. The fabric’s luxe sheen adds sophistication, while the playful pattern offers a modern twist that keeps things fresh. Closed-toe heels or flats complete the ensemble, allowing for comfortable movement while still making a stylish statement. Ideal for creative environments, this outfit merges professional with chic, perfectly suited for the dynamic woman in her 40s who understands the power of fashion.

7. Ruffle V-Neck Blouse

Petite Dressing
Petite Dressing

The ruffle v-neck blouse is an absolute gem for women in their 40s looking to elevate their summer workwear. This design strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and femininity. The v-neck adds a flattering touch, elongating the neck while the ruffle detail introduces a playful yet professional vibe. Tucking it into tailored beige trousers creates a sleek silhouette that is structured yet breathable, ideal for warm weather. Pairing this ensemble with pointed-toe flats not only ensures comfort during long workdays but also maintains a polished appearance. It’s all about feeling confident while embracing your personal style!

8. Double-Breasted Peak Lapel Blazer

Petite Dressing
Petite Dressing

A double-breasted peak lapel blazer is a timeless addition to any summer wardrobe, especially for professionals in their 40s. This classic piece exudes confidence and authority, setting the tone for any work environment. The tailored fit offers a sleek profile while providing breathable comfort, making it an excellent choice for warmer months. Pairing this blazer with matching tailored trousers creates a sophisticated suit that can transition seamlessly from meetings to after-work gatherings. The low-heel mules add a touch of modern elegance, allowing for ease of movement without sacrificing style. Invest in this piece to elevate your ensemble effortlessly!

9. Polo Top

Petite Dressing

The crisp white polo top is an underrated hero in summer workwear, providing a blend of sportiness and sophistication. For women in their 40s, this top offers a timeless option that can be easily dressed up or down. The structured yet relaxed fit gives a polished flair when tucked into tailored black culottes. This combination not only keeps you comfortable but also stylishly chic. Simple white canvas shoes add a casual touch that still feels cohesive and appropriate for work. This outfit is about marrying ease with elegance, allowing you to navigate your day with confidence and flair while embracing your personality!

10. Mixed Media Shift Dress

Petite Dressing

This mixed media shift dress strikes the perfect balance between professional polish and creative flair, making it an ideal choice for vibrant summer workdays. The neutral tones combined with contrast paneling create a captivating visual interest while maintaining a sophisticated edge. The dress’s relaxed silhouette allows for breathability during warm weather, ensuring you stay comfortable without sacrificing style. Pairing it with open-toed wedges not only lengthens the legs but also adds a playful touch, perfect for transitions from the office to post-work gatherings. It’s a modern piece that reflects confidence and ease, making it a versatile staple for any professional wardrobe.

11. Long Open Front Wool & Cashmere Cardigan

Petite Dressing
Petite Dressing

Layering becomes a chic statement with a long open front wool and cashmere cardigan. This piece adds an element of sophistication to the classic combination of a white tee and tailored black trousers, ensuring you feel polished yet relaxed. The luxe fabric mix offers warmth and a fluid drape, which is perfect for transitioning between air-conditioned offices and warm outdoor spaces. Beige loafers ground the look, providing comfort and style as you move through your busy day. This ensemble showcases how the right layering can elevate a straightforward outfit into something effortlessly stylish, reinforcing that casual can be chic.

12. Straight Leg Pants

Petite Dressing
Petite Dressing

Looking sleek and put-together is easy with a pair of white straight-leg pants. The fresh hue adds a summery vibe while keeping the outfit grounded and professional. Paired with a fitted navy blouse, this combination creates a striking contrast that draws the eye, flattering a variety of body shapes. The simplicity of nude sandals not only extends your silhouette but also complements the clean lines of the outfit. By opting for a structured look like this one, you present a polished image that’s perfect for meetings or casual Friday outings, embodying a curated style that resonates confidence and approachability.

13. Rib Cardigan

Petite Dressing

The rib cardigan is a summer staple that effortlessly combines comfort with sophistication, perfect for a modern work environment. The cream color serves as a versatile neutral that can brighten up any outfit while keeping it chic. Layering it over a tailored trouser strikes the right balance of relaxed and polished, ideal for the professional woman in her 40s. This combination also offers a graceful silhouette that flatters the figure without sacrificing ease of movement. Loafers bring a hint of casual elegance, making this ensemble perfect for transitioning from an office setting to after-work plans, all while looking effortlessly put together.

14. Tie Front Long Sleeve Shirtdress

Petite Dressing

A tie front shirtdress is a fabulous choice for summer workwear, bringing a touch of playful femininity to a professional look. The tie detail cinches at the waist, accentuating curves while offering a relaxed fit that allows for movement — a major plus for busy days. Choosing a tan hue adds warmth while remaining understated enough for the office. Pairing this dress with closed-toe heels injects an element of modern style, making it perfect for those sunny days when you want to look polished but feel relaxed.

15. Belted Wide-Leg Jumpsuit

Petite Dressing
Petite Dressing

Nothing says confidence quite like a belted wide-leg jumpsuit. Its tailored fit creates a sharp, sophisticated look that works wonders in a professional setting while ensuring ultimate comfort. The navy shade provides a classic appeal that pairs beautifully with various accessories, while the wide-legged design adds an air of elegance and movement. The belt defines the waist, enhancing the overall silhouette and accentuating curves just right. Stylish flat sandals keep the outfit grounded, adding a casual yet chic touch. This ensemble is perfect for warm summer days, transitioning seamlessly from day to night without the need for a complete wardrobe change, ensuring you remain fashionable and comfortable throughout your busy schedule.

Posted In: ClassyTrendy

Hello there! My name is Chi Li, 5'2", founder of PETITE DRESSING, the clothing line for women 5'4" & under. Are you petite and have you been frustrated with what to wear?
This is an issue few truly understand and even fewer brands truly address.
Being petite myself, I have been writing about fashion for short women since 2016 and my brand petitedressing.com has touched the lives of millions.
My styling concepts for petite women not only focus on the perfect fit but also on flattering & elongating the petite frame for a lean silhouette, optimizing the proportions.
Shop my clothing line here.

You’ll Also Love

Over 50? These 27 Everyday Items Can Enhance Any Woman’s Wardrobe
These 25 Simple Items Will Make Your Outfit Look So Much More Stylish After 60
A Chic Wardrobe Starts With These 21 Pieces

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Next Post >

7 Texture Pairings Like Linen Leather That Add Instant Style

the petite style bible

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Never miss a beat! Be the first to know about our weekly styling tips for petites!

Must Know

  • Petite Women’s Clothing Styling Tips
  • How to Dress for Your Body Type
  • Best Places to Shop
  • Petite Resources
  • Shoes for Small Feet
  • Petite Celebrities
  • Web Stories

SHOP

  • Best Petite Dresses
  • Petite Jumpsuits
  • Petite Jeans
  • Petite Pants
  • Petite Tops
  • Petite Coats & Jackets

Legal

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Affiliate Disclaimer

Copyright © 2025 Petite Dressing · Theme by 17th Avenue

  • Pinterest
  • Facebook
  • Flipboard
  • X