Ann Taylor LOFT

Over the last two years, Ann Taylor has made a noticeable effort to bring its apparel and accessories offerings out of the naughts and into the new, uber-fashion-conscious decade. In fact, many industry insiders we've spoken to about AT's reformation have noted: "They're trying be J.Crew." Evidence of this marketing scheme can be found in the retailer's newfound preppy-meets-glam aesthetic. The company also recently inked a deal with the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund to host a runway show in Los Angeles this October.

Looking good for the workplace is a must, but it's so hot out that all we want to do is collapse in a heap under the nearest air conditioner. For those of us for whom that's not an option, thankfully there's good news: shorts can be work-appropriate. Here we round up our faves, plus six rules (and when to break them). So sit back, get a snow cone, and try to beat the heat by any means necessary for the weekend. But when Monday morning rolls around, we've got you covered. nextpage

Last fall, the FTC promised to start regulating the blossoming relationships between companies and bloggers. We wrote about it extensively on Fashion