Going Out Without Dread
Business casual dresses tend to be more casual than formal in nature. It’s a bit like being in that phase where you are leaving your hotel room at a bad time for the night, but your house is dark and empty.
You might feel a little awkward and uncomfortable in a formal dress, but business casual allows you to still feel comfortable about yourself, while dressing down enough that you won’t look like you came from work. Think casual – I think you will be comfortable in a business casual dress.
Most career women can find a business casual outfit to work in that can be either comfortable or a little uncomfortable, depending on what she’s going to be doing. Whether she will be wearing a skirt or a pair of shorts will depend on her choice of clothing. Of course, if she knows she will be going out on the town, she can just grab a pair of jeans and a t-shirt that’s on sale at the mall. There’s no reason to try to dress like you would for a social occasion if the circumstances are more formal.
When it comes to office clothing, it’s not that simple. Usually an office is either formal or casual, and the dress code that’s followed here is much more formal than usual. If there’s a dress code, chances are there’s a business casual dress code, too. For example, when most women come to work they’re dressed more formally in their dress uniforms – especially the ones with the white collars and the little bows at the collar.
This is why you should not go out on the town without a proper wardrobe of work clothing that can be used to keep you in one place and that lets you look your best in a business setting. Remember that those who come to work in this setting usually have other issues on their mind, and they will most likely want to go out as often as possible to socialize and stay alert. For them, work is the priority and it’s a part of their lives.
Another thing that should be remembered by career women who want to be seen in a professional office environment, is that there is a difference between dress slacks and business suits. Just because they say “business casual” does not mean you should wear a slacks suit and button down shirt in the morning. Think dress slacks. But, make sure the shirt is closed and tucked in a place where it will be easy to grab a drink of water and get your phone ready for the day.
The important thing to remember about business attire is that it should be comfortable and at the same time, look appropriate. Remember that professional attire will only make you look professional if you stick to it.
Don’t forget that you need to look sharp at all times and this applies to the workplace as well. For some women, it could be a little scary to be wearing a dress that’s more informal, but it’s worth it to look your best.
