Top 30+ Pieces at Zara and H&M That Will Instantly Elevate Your Summer Work Wardrobe
I may spend most days in the office, but putting together a cute summer work outfit isn't something that comes easily to me. And don't even get me started on the struggle of getting dressed in hot weather, either. That's why I'm turning to two of my favorite affordable retailers—Zara and H&M—to refresh my work wardrobe with rich-looking finds that I can buy on a budget.
I'm all about looking cool while staying cool this summer. That means I'm prioritizing breezy, on-trend finds like linen separates, easy-to-style basics, and summery dresses. What's more, I'm looking to add a few new pairs of shoes to my workwear mix, like retro sneakers and elegant slingback heels. Thankfully, I only need to head to Zara and H&M for everything I need to build a chic minimalist capsule wardrobe.
Keep scrolling for my complete summer workwear curation. I searched high and low for must-have items from both retailers, like linen pants, summer shoes, polished tops, and more. Better yet, my finds are $100 and under, making them truly affordable wardrobe refreshes.
ZARA, Wrinkled Effect Midi Skirt
Wrinkled-looking fabrics are the surprising summer trend I'm loving.
ZARA, Gathered Kimono Shirt
ZARA, Combination Running Sneakers
zara, 100% Linen Palazzo Pants ZW Collection
Elevated linen pants like this can easily be dressed up for the office or dressed down for the weekend.
Zara, Plain Knit Basic Short Sleeve Top
ZARA, Trf Mid-Rise Baggy Balloon Jeans
ZARA, Short Sleeve Knit Polo Top
Give anything a polo neckline and it instantly becomes office-ready.
ZARA, Linen Top With Lace Details
For a summery take on a basic white top, turn to this pretty lacy pick.
ZARA, Slingback Pumps
The buckle on these heels give them even more of a sophisticated feel.
ZARA, Linen Midi Dress
This linen shirtdress is sure to keep you cool and stylish on the hottest of summer days.
ZARA, Smooth Knit Vest Top
ZARA, Z1975 Crossover Denim Skirt
ZARA, Pleated Linen Blend Shorts Zw Collection
ZARA, Zw Collection Polka Dot Halter Top
Fashion girls have been obsessing over polka dots—if you want to try out the print, this top can be worn multiple different ways.
ZARA, Pants With a High Waist
I have these pants and they make even the most basic of tops look polished.
H&M, Eyelet Embroidered Dress
This pretty dress makes for an easy one-and-done outfit for when you don't know what to wear.
H&M, Long T-Shirt Dress
Not only will you be comfortable in this pick, but you can run the gamut with accessorizing.
H&M, Fine-Knit T-Shirt
I have this easy-going top in blush pink, but now I'm considering picking it up in this trendy butter yellow shade.
H&M, Maxi Skirt
H&M, Draped Bodycon Dress
This dress fits the definition of day-to-night dressing to a T.
H&M, Linen Shirt
Prepare to wear this linen button down a thousand different ways over the course of the summer.
H&M, Coated Pencil Skirt
H&M, Linen-Blend Jacket Dress
This dress has a classic silhouette that can be worn year after year, plus the camel shade is so rich-looking.
H&M, Knit Top With Collar
The gold buttons and classic colorway make this top look so much more expensive than its $40 price tag.
H&M, Wide-Leg Linen-Blend Pants
Swap out your go-to trousers for this breezier version, which are just as polished for the office with belt loops and pleats.
H&M, Fisherman Sandals
H&M, Ruffle-Trimmed Drawstring Blouse
H&M, Fine-Knit Cardigan
H&M, Chiffon Maxi Skirt
Just imagine how pretty this skirt would look paired with a ribbed tank top and sandals.
