When I first started working in an office, I was confused about what to wear every day. The dress code said “business casual,” but what did that even mean? After some research and trial and error, I learned that business casual attire is a mix of professional and comfortable clothing. For men, it could be a collared shirt with khaki pants or dress pants with a sweater. For women, it could be a blouse with dress pants or a skirt with a cardigan. The key is to avoid anything too casual like jeans or sneakers, but also to not be too formal like a suit and tie. And don’t forget to dress appropriately for the specific workplace and occasion. With these tips and examples in mind, you’ll be rocking the business casual look in no time.
What is business casual?
Business casual is a dress code that is typically reserved for professional settings that do not require a formal suit and tie. This dress code allows for more relaxed and comfortable clothing while still maintaining a level of professionalism. Generally, business casual attire for men includes slacks or khakis, a dress shirt or polo, and dress shoes. For women, business casual attire includes tailored pants or a skirt paired with a blouse or sweater and closed-toe shoes. It’s important to remember that business casual dress codes may vary from company to company, so it’s always best to check with your employer to ensure you’re dressing appropriately.
Business casual ideas
Here are some ideas for business casual attire for both men and women:
For Men:
- Khaki or dress pants paired with a collared shirt
- A button-down shirt with dress shoes and slacks
- A polo shirt with chinos or dress pants
- A sports coat or blazer with trousers and a dress shirt
For Women:
- A midi or knee-length skirt paired with a blouse and flats or heels
- A wrap dress with dress flats or pumps
- A tailored blouse or sweater with dress pants or a skirt
- A blazer or cardigan with trousers or a pencil skirt
In general, it’s a good idea to stick with neutral colors such as black, gray, navy, or brown for business casual attire. Avoid overly revealing or casual clothing, such as shorts or flip-flops, and opt for clean and pressed clothing that fits well and is comfortable to wear. Don’t forget to accessorize with simple jewelry and a professional bag or briefcase to complete your look.
Defining business casual by industry
In my experience, figuring out what “business casual” means can be a challenge. It’s a dress code that’s often used in professional settings, but its interpretation can vary depending on the industry you’re in. For example, in the tech industry, business casual may mean jeans and a polo shirt, while in finance, it could mean slacks and a button-down shirt. Personally, I’ve found that it’s helpful to observe what other people are wearing in my workplace and industry, and to err on the side of dressing more formally if I’m unsure. Ultimately, I think it’s important to strike a balance between feeling comfortable and professional, and to remember that presenting yourself well can have an impact on how others perceive you in the workplace.
What not to wear with a business casual dress code
Business casual attire is often a mix of professional and relaxed clothing, which can make it challenging to determine what is and is not appropriate to wear. To help you avoid any fashion faux-pas, here are some things you should avoid wearing when dressing for a business casual dress code:
- Short hemlines: Skirts and dresses that are too short are not appropriate for a business casual dress code. It’s best to stick to knee-length or just above the knee.
- Sneakers: While sneakers may be comfortable, they are not the best choice for a business casual dress code. Instead, opt for closed-toe shoes such as loafers, pumps or flats.
- Torn or ripped clothing: Avoid wearing clothing that is torn, ripped, or has holes. This is too casual for a business atmosphere.
- T-shirts: T-shirts are too casual for a business casual dress code. Instead, opt for a blouse or a button-down shirt.
- Athletic wear: Athletic wear such as yoga pants, gym shorts, or sweatpants is not appropriate for a business casual dress code.
- Overly revealing clothing: Clothing that is too revealing, such as low-cut tops, short skirts, or tight clothing, is not appropriate for a business atmosphere.
- Loud or flashy accessories: Overly flashy or bold accessories can be too distracting for a business atmosphere. Opt for more understated jewelry and accessories.
Remember, business casual dress codes can vary depending on the company culture and industry. When in doubt, it’s always better to dress more professionally than too casually. By avoiding these fashion no-nos, you’ll be sure to look confident, polished, and professional in a business casual dress code.
Additional tips for business casual attire
When it comes to dressing for a business casual dress code, there are a few additional tips that can help you look your best. Firstly, always make sure that your clothing is clean and well-pressed. Clothing that is wrinkled or stained can give off a sloppy and unprofessional appearance. Secondly, pay attention to accessories – a watch, belt, or piece of jewelry can add a touch of polish to your outfit. However, be careful not to overdo it – too many accessories can be distracting. Thirdly, take the weather into account when choosing your outfit. In hotter weather, lightweight fabrics such as cotton or linen can help you stay cool, while in colder weather, layering is key. Finally, don’t be afraid to inject a bit of your own personal style into your outfit – as long as it’s appropriate for the workplace. Ultimately, the key is to dress in a way that makes you feel confident and professional.
Beware of casual Fridays
While “Casual Fridays” can be a welcome break from the usual business attire, it’s important to be careful not to get too casual. It can be tempting to dress in your most comfortable and relaxed clothing, but it’s important to remember that you are still representing your workplace. Avoid wearing anything that is too revealing or sloppy, such as ripped jeans or baggy t-shirts. Instead, opt for clothing that is still comfortable but more polished, such as a sundress or khaki pants. It’s also important to pay attention to hygiene – make sure that your hair is brushed, your teeth are clean, and your clothes are clean and free of wrinkles or stains. Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance between dressing comfortably and professionally. By doing so, you can make a positive impression on your colleagues and maintain a level of respect in the workplace.
Overdress for a job interview
When it comes to dressing for a job interview, it’s always better to err on the side of overdressing. While it can be tempting to dress in a way that’s too casual or comfortable, dressing professionally can help you make a positive first impression on your potential employer. Opt for clothing that is conservative and polished, such as a suit or dress pants and a blazer. Avoid anything that is too revealing or flashy, as this can be distracting and make you seem unprofessional. It’s also important to pay attention to the details – make sure that your clothing is clean and well-pressed, and that your shoes are polished. Finally, don’t forget about grooming – make sure that your hair is clean and styled, and that your nails are trimmed and clean. By dressing professionally and showing that you take the job interview seriously, you can increase your chances of making a good impression and landing the job.