Brisbane liveability: Calls to dress more casually in the office

Leading fashion designers say office dress codes should be relaxed to allow for cooler threads in Brisbane’s cruel summer months.

Girl and the Sun’s Zoi Vafias shows her summery options. Picture: Lyndon Mechielsen

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It’s not your father’s safari suit, but it is a more casual take on workwear heading into those steamy summer months.

Brisbane has been controversially marked down in successive Economist Intelligence Unit liveability rankings for its humid climate and hot temperatures, but leading fashion designers say office dress codes should be relaxed to allow for cooler threads.

Mark Ferguson, director of tailor Wil Valor, says dressing for summer is a new trend.

“Within the last month the Brisbane Racing Club allowed shorts to be worn by men during the spring and summer racing season, so it will definitely become more popular after that rule,” he said.

Despite shorts typically being associated with casual dressing, Mr Ferguson said there were ways to “class up” the cooler option.

“It typically has to be made out of linen or linen blended with wool or silk, so despite it being a more casual aesthetic, it can still be classy,” he said.

“To make it that bit more classy, add a pocket handkerchief or a leather loafer or a linen jacket.”

One of his clients, real estate agent Trent Pool, wore shorts to a Melbourne Cup event and plans to wear the ensemble again.

Trent Pool shows shorts can still be stylish and businesslike. Picture: David Clark

“I will definitely be wearing it to the office and out for meetings, I liked it so much,” he said.

Women’s fashion designers are also joining in on the trend, with Sacha Drake saying her new line was founded on being comfortable and stylish in the office.

“Embracing the city’s warm and sunny weather in a professional environment comes down to the choice of fabric,” Ms Drake said.

“In my recent summer workwear collection, we are adopting breathable fabrics like lightweight cotton, linen blends and airy silks, ensuring you stay comfortable during the hot Brisbane days.”

Ms Drake said expanding the officewear wardrobe beyond a button-up and thick trousers was a great way to stay cool in a hot office.

“Incorporating versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched in your wardrobe, it adapts seamlessly to the demands of the Brisbane climate,” she said.

Brisbane-based designer and founder of label Girl and the Sun Zoi Vafias said it was important for people to feel comfortable.

“I definitely think what people wear can boost their confidence,” Ms Vafias said.

“If you feel comfortable and good about how you look in something then you can carry that throughout your day and into your work.”