Business casual is a vague, ambiguous term, which is usually understood to be any kind of dress code adopted for corporate, office or party settings, where smart casual elements are mixed with traditional, business attire. However, business casual does not have to be this way. It can be tailored to suit your particular needs and the setting in which you’re dressing. Many businesses are now rethinking the boundaries of business casual, seeking to present an image of modernity, efficiency and functionality instead of a drab, uniforms-clad business culture. The following are some tips on how to dress for success:
Smart and stylish, is a must. Whether in business casual dress or elsewhere, make sure that you dress in layers, so that you don’t appear as if you’ve been hanging around all day. Layering can help conceal those stubborn bits that you’d rather keep hidden. Remember that layering should work well with other business casual dress codes, so make sure to coordinate with them, too.
You can use neckties, dresses and pants to dress down a business casual dress code. You can also add a bit of color with pinstripes or pick a bright colored top and trousers to create a more informal look. Just make sure to keep these colors conservative, and remember to choose solid colors like black, dark gray, dark blue or navy.
A business casual wardrobe often consists of jeans, khakis, dress slacks or dress pants. You can use these to dress down a casual wardrobe, or go for a more formal look with a tie or cummerbund. Dress slacks are a safe choice to wear apparel for a night out on the town – just don’t wear attire that’s too form fitting.
The best answer to what is business casual for women is business casual attire with a bit of elbow room. You can wear dress slacks with a button down shirt under a jacket or blouse in a lighter shade of color. Or wear jeans and a white or beige shirt with a vest over it in a solid color. Your Oxfords, dress shoes or dress loafers can match your shirt, sweater or blouse in darker colors.
Remember, you don’t have to follow all the dress codes when it comes to wearing a skirt and t-shirt to work. When choosing what is business casual for women, remember that you can still dress down even if you’re not wearing your office outfit. Choose solid colors, solid patterns, and comfortable patterns like paisley, floral prints, polka dots or solid black for layering pieces of your casual clothing ensemble. For the most part, business casual dress codes tend to be more flexible than formal dress codes, which can make it much easier for you to find matching clothing items that will make you look your best.
