Your first day back at work after the summer holiday
Short answer: The first working day after the holiday is often warm, busy and a little unfamiliar. Clothes that are easy to put on, do not pinch after weeks in shorts and cope with both sunshine and air conditioning make the day easier. Most of it comes down to planning the evening before.
Your body has got used to loose clothing
After three weeks in sandals and loose summer trousers, a pair of fitted work trousers can feel like armour. Many people also change a little in weight or shape over the holiday, which is completely normal. Try your work clothes on a few days before you go back, so you do not discover a problem at seven in the morning. Choose styles with an elastic waist or soft fabric for the first week, and allow yourself a calm start rather than a rushed one.
August is still summer
In Denmark and much of northern Europe, August is often one of the warmest months, and trains and cycle paths can already feel warm in the morning. Think in thin layers that you can take off as the day goes on. A short sleeved top under a light jumper works well, because the jumper can come off once the sun is high. A bamboo sweatshirt for women in a thin fabric is easy to keep over your shoulders in a cold meeting room.
Air conditioning and chilly meeting rooms
Many offices are cooled hard during the summer. The difference between 26 degrees outside and 20 degrees inside is easy to feel, especially if you have been sweating a little on the way in. Keep an extra layer at your desk throughout August. A fabric that breathes and does not cling makes the change more comfortable. Viscose from bamboo feels cool against the skin and is one of several good options, along with thin cotton and linen.
A simple answer for busy mornings
The first week back is often full of emails, meetings and colleagues who want to hear about your holiday. A garment that is complete on its own saves time in the morning. A hooded dress or a simple knitted dress works with trainers at the office and with a jacket on the way home. Take a look at bamboo hoodie dresses if you want an idea of that kind of easy outfit.
Get your wardrobe ready the night before
Lay out your clothes the evening before, including shoes and bag. Check that nothing has picked up marks or needs a wash after sitting in a suitcase. Holiday clothes that have been in salt water and sand should be washed before they go back in the wardrobe. Rinse swimwear in cold water and let it dry in the shade so the elastic lasts longer. It is a small job that saves you trouble next summer.
The first couple of weeks
Many people find the first two weeks after a holiday more tiring than they expected. It helps to sleep properly, drink enough water and avoid filling the calendar completely. Clothes you already know work for you remove one small decision every morning. If you need some inspiration, you can see what others choose among the bestsellers for women. Save the heavier autumn jumpers for September, when the mornings really start to cool.
Frequently asked questions
What do I wear if the office is cold and the weather is warm
A short sleeved top with a light jumper over it that can come on and off during the day.
Should holiday clothes be washed before they are put away
Yes. Sand, salt and sun cream stay in the fabric and can cause marks and stiff fibres over time.
Why do my work clothes feel tight after the holiday
Your body has got used to loose clothing, and small changes in shape are normal. Choose softer styles for the first week.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
