A few weeks ago we shared our summer office dressing pet peeves. While you may or may not agree with everything, it’s Natalie’s goal to help you look polished in your work environment. This way you stand out for the right reasons. Which bring us to the question about maxi dresses.

While some women are blessed with the perfect body to pull off these lanky ensembles, they can be hard to wear. Add to that their beachy look and we just don’t find them office appropriate. This look can get sloppy so quickly and sloppy is never work appropriate.

As cute as Kate Hudson looks here, it’s hard to imagine her in a business meeting. It’s important to remember not everything works in the office. Even if you look great, ask yourself if you’d really feel comfortable pitching a client in such a casual outfit.

You might be thinking you can top your dress off with a cardigan or jacket. But even paired with these, the dresses tend to reveal to much. They just don’t convey the right level of professionalism.

There are too many fantastic and professional alternatives in dresses to go so casual this summer. Both this T Tahari Adora dress and Jones New York Collection Crossover style have fantastic prints and a more professionally flattering fit.

So let’s say no to maxi dresses in the office this summer and look for chic and stylish alternatives!

For more summer dressing tips check out Natalie’s bestselling book, Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style. It is available in Paperback, Kindle and Abridged Ebook Format.