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There are two cardinal rules to business casual dressing. One, casual does not equal sloppy. Two, business casual does not equal boring. These two rules should be observed with particular care during the warm weather months, when heat and humidity constantly tempt us into becoming lazy and careless about everything, including the way we look.

MEN

Gentlemen, news item: khakis are not the only pants that can be worn comfortably in the summer. There are alternatives to this worn-to-death office staple. Peruse stores lik Tommy Bahamas and catalogs like Magellan's and Travel Smith for crisp wrinkle-resistant washable trousers in light breathable fabrics and a range of subdued colors from the pale linens to the classy grays.

The same retailers sell light short-sleeve silk shirts that are much more cool and comfortable than polo shirts. And please - PLEASE - do not attempt wearing undershirts as pretend t-shirts - it just doesn't work. If you do wear a t-shirt, pick a good quality one in a nice non-stuffy knit and a flattering color. Speaking of colors - pale blue and white are not the only two colors in existence. Men can and should wear colors as long as the color choice flatters the natural complexion, eye and hair. Nobody is asking you to show up decked out in fuchsia pink or lime green. However, there is an entire range of blues, blue-greens, greens and reds that is yours for the taking. Stand in front of the mirror in good natural light, hold different color garments up to your face, pick the ones that look best and WEAR them.

If you have an interview or an important meeting in the middle of the day - something that might require a more formal look - peruse Magellan's and Travel Smith's travel blazers and jackets. Find one with a textured look - chances are it would go well with almost anything - and keep it in your office or cubicle for a quick update from casual to more formal.

Finish your look with comfortable shoes. Many loafers come with mesh panels, allowing your feet to breathe in the sweltering heat. If you work in a truly casual workplace, go for nice sandals - nice being the key word here, meaning they shouldn't look like hiking or orthopaedic sandals. Make sure your shoes go with your belt - these little details are always important.

WOMEN

Ladies, why are you still stuck in the eternal black pants and shoes you have been wearing for ages? Aside from the fact that black does not - contrary to popular opinion - go with everything and kills the

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