The fashion labels making summer workwear feel fun again

For years, officewear has been tied to a predictable formula. Neutral colours, plain shirts and safe separates became the default for dressing “professionally”. But this summer, fashion is shifting towards something far more expressive. Prints, hand-drawn motifs, artistic florals and playful textures are finding their way into everyday wardrobes, proving that workwear can feel creative too, without looking shoddy or a little too unserious.

Designers across the world are embracing this lighter, more joyful approach to dressing. From whimsical doodles and vibrant florals to dressy pleats and delicate embellishments, these collections make a strong case for adding some personality into your 9-to-5 wardrobe. 

These brands are redefining office dressing for a summer that feels optimistic, relaxed and full of character:

Péro

Péro's new SS26 Doodle Collection perfectly captures the mood of playful dressing for the summer. Known for its handcrafted approach and textile-driven storytelling, the Indian label has introduced quirky illustrated motifs, relaxed silhouettes and colourful detailing that feel both artistic and wearable. The collection mixes hand embroidery, patchwork and easy tailoring to deliver a collection that looks cheerful and fun. A printed blazer jacket layered over crisp trousers or a doodle-inspired maxi dress paired with a breezy striped overshirt feels polished enough for meetings while still carrying the brand's signature sense of whimsy.

Erdem

Erdem has long mastered romantic florals, but the brand’s recent Spring Summer collection gives them a sharper, more modern edge. Structured blazers covered in embroidered blooms and botanical motifs bring personality to classic tailoring. Some of the pieces, like the embroidered linen single-breasted blazer from the collection, feel especially suited for summer office dressing. It offers the structure of traditional workwear while adding softness and texture through intricate floral detailing. 

Issey Miyake

Few brands understand wearable art quite like Issey Miyake. The label continues to make bold dressing feel practical through its signature pleating techniques, fluid shapes and graphic prints. Even when the colours are vibrant or the silhouettes dramatic, the pieces retain an elegance that works surprisingly well for everyday wear. The designs lean into movement and texture, offering lightweight separates that instantly elevate simple office basics. 

Susan Fang

Susan Fang brings a softer, dreamlike energy to playful dressing. Known for ethereal textures, delicate florals and handcrafted detailing, the designer’s work often feels like wearable fantasy. The brand's tops, dresses, and skirts maintain a sense of ease when styled right. Layered under a light blazer or paired with structured accessories, these romantic prints can transition seamlessly into daytime dressing. 

Emilia Wickstead

Emilia Wickstead’s approach to prints feels polished and timeless. Her collections often feature vintage-inspired florals and elegant silhouettes. The prints are playful, but the tailoring keeps the pieces sophisticated enough to be worn at work without being boring. Wickstead’s pieces are perfect for those who want colour and pattern in their wardrobe without stepping too far away from classic dressing.

Mirae Paris

Mirae Paris approaches playful fashion through bold colour and artistic prints. What makes Mirae stand out is its ability to create pieces that feel expressive while remaining wearable in everyday life. Styled with oversized tailoring or pared-back accessories, these statement pieces bring a fresh energy to workwear dressing.

Lead image: Featured brands

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