Sure, staying in during a thunderstorm and cuddling up with your partner, a good book, or both is ideal. But for most of us, it's not an option, especially during the work week. But you don't have to let it dampen your mood. For starters, go ahead and give yourself a break from restricting office clothing like suits and structured skirts and dresses, there's no place for them during a soggy commute. Relish spending the day in a comfortable, yet office-appropriate, look with these rain-friendly outfit ideas.
Perfect Rainy Day Outfit Ideas
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On Your Body: Dress(ing) Right
Contrary to instinct, skirts and dresses are perfect for rainy days, as a pair of bare legs are easier to wipe down and dry than a pair of jeggings. Just follow a couple of rules. Make sure the dress allows for movement in case you need to jump over a puddle or step wide to avoid a gutter river. In this case, knee-length is a perfect length. If the dress is body skimming like this Calvin Klein LBD, make sure it has some stretch to it. Another rain option: fit-and-flare style dresses.
$139.50 at Calvin Klein.
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On Your Body: Trench Coat
It's a classic, what can we say? You'll never regret wearing one of these in the rain. Plus, a neutral solid color will balance out patterns, stripes and bright colors — all of which are perfect to brighten your spirits under cloudy skies.
$29.99 - $34.99 at Gap.
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On Your Body: Denim Jacket
Trenches aren't the only rain-appropriate jacket out there. For a summer rain, a denim jacket is perfect to wear over any casual chic look. You can also use denim to layer your toppers. Try a denim vest underneath a blazer for an unexpected pairing or keep it simple with a denim jacket like this.
$78 at Urban Outfitters.
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On Your Body: Black Pants
Skinny Black pants with a hint of stretch are really the only pant to go for when it's wet outside. Why? They hide splashes from puddles, they can be rolled up to your ankles (and stay there) if need be, and they can be comfortably tucked into boots. This pair of Anne Taylor pants is chic, professional, and the zippers at the bottoms are ideal for rain. But, a nice pair of black skinny jeans (provided your work allows for it) will do you just fine too.
$44.88 at Ann Taylor.
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On Your Feet: Flip Flops
The logic here is similar to wearing a skirt or dress. Your skin dries a lot faster than a pair of shoes you're stuck wearing all day. Of course, this is only good if you're not doing a ton of walking during your commute and the day is relatively warm. Be sure to bring an office-appropriate pair to change into. For other rainy day shoes, read on.
$3.94 at Old Navy.
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On Your Feet: Riding Boots
Not all riding boots are created equal. Some will let water in at the seams, so if you're in the market for a pair, know that you get what you pay for. Having said that, a riding boot can be just the thing for an office casual, preppy-inspired look. Tuck leggings, skinny jeans or your bare calves into a pair and worry less about getting wet. Ankle boots are another option, too.
$37.20 - $99.75 at Amazon.com.
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On Your Feet: Wellies
The classic pair of wellies is too chic. If you can afford it, these will be your go-to rain shoes for years to come. They're even worth squirreling away and saving for. But there are many rubber rain boots out there for you to try. From bright red and yellow to patterned plaid and polka-dotted, your options are endless.
$135 at Hunter.
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Accessorize: Scarf
Don't underestimate the power of accessories when the water is coming down. A bright silk scarf is a the perfect complement to keep your neck cozy and chic.
$39.99 at J.Crew.
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Accessorize: Hat
Rain brings frizz. Frizz brings a bad hair day. Bad hair brings a bad mood. Tuck your hair under a cute fedora to keep it protected from the rain.
$10.80 at Forever 21.
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Accessorize: Umbrella
Ah, the umbrella. This one is goofy to the max. And if you like to put a smile on the faces of other people drudging through their commute, go for it! If you like to feel a bit more chic, splurge on one from Burberry or a simple, solid color that will go with multiple outfits.
$16.99 at Target.
