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Sitting on your porch, sipping a cocktail and being supremely satisfied with your choice of community as the temperature soars to a comfortable 80 degrees on a typical December day, it's hard to come up with reasons why anyone would chose to live anywhere other than the Rio Grande Valley. With its temperate climate, booming lifestyle and contemporary feel, the valley is more than appealing. Still, in the summer, when the mercury threatens to burst through the thermometer, it's easy to be left wondering if it's appropriate to show up to your neighbor's barbecue in your bathing suit or maybe to the office in flip flops and a linen sundress as it's the only outfit you have that you don't sweat through the minute you put it on. So, what's a professional woman to do to both look the part and beat the heat?

THINK IN LAYERS
It may sound counterintuitive; but pile on the layers. Start with lightweight, moisture wicking underpinnings like tanks and camisoles that are designed for sports. They come in both bright and neutral colors that will complement any outfit you are putting together. Plain cotton tanks and camisoles work well too, but avoid silks and polyester as they won't allow your perspiration to evaporate as easily, creating a warm, moist (not to mention potentially stinky), uncomfortable environment for you.

Once you've picked a base, select a coordinating lightweight blouse, cardigan or jacket to layer over your camisole. Or, you can even layer a t-shirt on top. The key to the layers the base layer should be the most fitted and each subsequent layer should be lightweight and easily removable. When layering with t-shirts and additional tank tops, make sure that the base tank is longest, letting colors peek through the bottom.

ACCESSORIZE INTSTEAD OF STUFFY
Summer might be the time to pack away the pantsuits and opt for lighter and brighter looks. Take your cues from the higher ups in your company for the best way to dress. But, you'll likely be able to get away with shedding the pants/skirt blazer look for every day; especially in navy, burgundy and black. Summer is not the time to look like you are wading through the doldrums of January or going to funeral. Instead, pull just the pants or just the skirt from your favorite suits and pair it with a light blouse, maybe a floral pattern and accessorize with a broach or a bangle or even a scarf or headband. Don't go overboard, but a touch of flash is both pretty and professional, adding polish to a simple ensemble,

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