There are few things in this world that make me truly angry: tourists who stop in the middle of a busy sidewalk to look at a map, going Dutch on dates, and offices who insist upon cranking up the AC in the summer to the point that their employees must bring a portable heater to work to keep warm. With an energy crisis going on, wouldn't lowering the AC make sense? Who exactly benefits from a seemingly 60 degree work environment? (Pardon my rant, but I am currently sitting in the office with a wool cardigan and scarf on while the hot summer sun beams in mockingly.)
We asked a few of our writers - who all work elsewhere when they are not toiling away spotting fashion must-haves for you - if their offices are cold and if so, how they cope. A resounding brrrrrrr rose up from all three, along with their suggestions for how to stay warm in the heat of summer.
SheFindsKristin:
In my office, we just had a discussion as to whether breaking the furniture apart for firewood would constitute a terminable offense because it's just that freaking cold. Preferring to keep my day job, I prefer to just turn to the usual suspects for warmth: hot herbal tea, Hollywood fashion news online, and my trusty Victoria's Secret Cotton and Cashmere Sweater Wrap ($58). I have one in every color in my desk and it's more stylish than bringing a down comforter to meetings.
SheFindsChristine:
I won't say I don't mind the first blast of ice cold air after trekking inside from the subway, but after the sweat has turned to icicles I turn to my stash of trusty pashminas. They keep me warm in the most fickle of climates. And they're small enough to toss in a drawer or in your purse if you don't need yours, but nice and toasty warm for when you're chilly. Bluefly.com has a great selection of cashmere pashminas for hefty discounts. Check out this khaki cashmere silk wrap on sale for $60.
SheFindsCatesby:
It's so cold in my office that our recent July 4th party looked like a New Year's celebration. Everyone in sweaters and gloves, shivering over their (catered) hotdogs and hamburgers. That's why I keep two blazers on the back of my chair, one black and one grey, to complement any outfit and keep me warm. A fitted 3-button Elie Tahari ($239) can look chic and summery over light colored clothes, while this black stretch Robert Rodriguez ($144, was $180) adds sophistication (and warmth!) to almost any outift.
Is your place of work causing you to shiver? How do you stay warm come August? Share your secrets below.
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