If you wonder what business casual attire means, you are at the right place. In this article, we explain how you can dress in a business casual attire manner and what to combine when it comes to this outfit.
Companies that allow business casual attire have different definitions of this style, but still, some things remain the same no matter the company you work in.
What is business casual attire?
Business casual attire combines business attire with a more relaxed and casual outfit that is still accepted in the office environment. It is a little bit more relaxed but still a professional style that can be seen as a business casual style.
What is business casual for women?
Business casual for women can be understood from different perspectives, but there are certain rules that apply when it comes to this style.
Business casual for women may include the following clothing:
- Blouses, button-downs, sweaters. polo shirts, or henleys
- Khaki pants, knee-length skirts, chinos, slacks, or dark jeans without holes
- Knee-length or maxi dresses
- Optional blazers, jackets, or cardigans
- Closed-toed shoes that include flats, oxfords, pumps, boots, or loafers
Suitable colors for women’s attire may include black, gray, navy, tan, beige, and white. You can also add bold colors to your outfit, but opt for the small pops of color.
For example, you can choose a pair of black dress pants and a colorful blouse in a subtle pink color. The outfit can be completed with black accessories.
On the other hand, you can combine an all-neutral outfit with colorful shoes or a bag. To complete the style, choose the matching color for the belt.
What is business casual for men?
Business casual for men is more straightforward and simpler than the same attire for women. There are many acceptable options and these are visible in business casual for men.
Here are the pieces that fit perfectly when it comes to business casual for men:
- Sweaters, polo shirts, or button-down shirts
- Dress pants, jeans without holes, or khakis
- Closed-toed shoes such as brogues, oxfords, or loafers
- Optional cardigan, jacket, or sport coat
When we speak about accessories for men, there are a few options that might be acceptable. Men can have a pocket square in a blazer pocket, or they can wear a belt, watch or tie bars in important situations.
If you wear a belt, the rule of thumb might be that your belt and shoes should be in matching colors. This means that if you are wearing a pair of brown oxfords, the belt should be in a similar shade.
Wear clothes that are appropriate
No matter if you are a new member of a team or a long-time employee in some company, you should wear the appropriate clothing. This means that your clothing must match the corporate culture and the clothing rules that we mentioned above.
If you are not sure what to wear at an interview for a new job, make sure that you find out what would be appropriate for this situation. See the company’s website or search for the social media pictures of their team members.
If you found nothing relevant, ask the HR manager about the appropriate attire. Now, you know the answer to the question “What does business casual look like?”
You can prepare the best business casual attire and attract positive attention at work. If you want to look professional but still relaxed, business casual attire will be the right choice.
Make sure that the clothing you wear is comfortable, clean, and well-pressed. In this manner, your business casual attire will be noticed and accepted in a good way.