Fashion: Easy breezy office days

Sometimes when the sun is shining, the weather is warm and the beach is calling work is the last place in the world you want to be. But with summer, particularly the holiday period, comes the chance to have some fun with your wardrobe. Whether you're the type to test the shorts-at-work theory or prefer to get in a summery mood in more subtle ways, take some tips from this spring's catwalks to get ready for summer workwear.

White is one of the hottest colours this summer. Bring it into your wardrobe in the form of a shift dress, or a cute skirt. White looks great teamed with jewel colours, or add interest with some bright accessories. A white blazer with a peek of navy blouse underneath is a really stylish twist. Orange is another stunner this summer and looks great with a tan.

Have fun with your shoes: Wedges are everywhere this season - team them with a pencil skirt and a slightly flouncy blouse. Cork heels are an excellent way to add a casual summer feel to an otherwise reasonably formal outfit.

Try out a maxi skirt for work. You'll probably need to steer clear of floral prints, but a flowing one-toned skirt teamed with a patterned top is an excellent way to stay in the relaxed mood of summer without crossing into too-beachy territory. Another trend that will work well this year is the midi-dress, which falls to mid-calf. I'd always thought this length was totally nana territory but, in the right colour and cut, it can be really flattering. Wear a mid-length skirt with some eye-catching high, high-heels.

If you are going to try out shorts, steer clear of the really short numbers. Look for plain black, brown or grey that reach almost to your knee. Team them with flat shoes or a cropped blazer.

Miniskirts call for flat shoes and there are some great ballet flats around this season. Animal print is popular and looks funky teamed with black. Black capris, a beige shirt and animal-print flats are a summer staple. Alternatively, go for a pop of colour with fluoro on your feet.

Play with your accessories - a satchel bag or a bright, chunky necklace will help make you feel like you're on holiday, even if you're stuck behind a desk.

BEAUTY SPOT

L'Oreal Revitalift SPF15 Total Repair, $39.99

I decided to switch to this day cream coming into summer to give my skin a bit of extra protection. It's intense - a friend with sensitive skin found it too much for her - but I noticed it made a real difference to the feel and look of my skin. After about a week, my skin looked brighter and fresher, and my face was noticeably softer. There's also a foam in this range and an SPF30 variety for extra coverage.