Business casual Friday? New job with a business relaxed vibe? What is business casual, and how do you update your work wardrobe?
For the answer to all of these questions, continue reading. The proper work attire and the right resume can help land your dream job. As well, working with a reputable job agency can significantly aid in your job search.
What is Business Casual?
The definition of business casual can range from one company to another. Therefore, it is imperative that you adhere to the business casual dress code set by your specific employment place.
Generally, you can find your company’s dress code in the company handbook. As well, during the interview process, orientation and training, your employer will outline their idea of business casual. If you are unsure about the specific dress code business casual requirements at your workplace, you can always ask, “What is business casual as it applies to my role?”
Ideally, business casual attire is a more relaxed version of the standard business dress code. However, with this dress style, you must obtain a wardrobe that is considered both appropriate and professional for your specific work environment.
Below we shall discuss business casual work attire to help blur the lines, as well as a list of what not to wear as part of your business everyday wardrobe!
Business Casual Dress for Women
Women’s dress attire for business casual encompasses vast options for appropriate clothing from slacks and skirts to blazers and sweaters. Following is a list of business casual attire clothing for women:
- Chinos, dark jeans, slacks, khakis
- Knee-length skirts or dresses, maxi dresses
- Tights or other hosiery (especially during colder weather)
- Blazers, jackets, and cardigans
- Blouses, button-down shirts, polo shirts
- Appropriately coordinated belts, scarves, jewelry, hats
- Closed-toed footwear such as oxfords, flats, boots, pumps, and loafers
Gender Neutral Business Casual Attire
There are plenty of appropriate wardrobe choices for those who do not conform to typical men’s or women’s clothing. Following are some examples:
- Cardigans, blazers, jackets
- Sweaters, button-down shirts, polo shirts,
- Khakis, dark denim, slacks
- Appropriate accessories such as scarves and jewelry
- Footwear: Work proper boots, oxfords, or loafers
Business Casual Wardrobe for Men
For men, the business casual dress code is pretty straightforward. Here are some examples:
- Button-down shirts, polos, or sweaters
- Jacket, blazer, or cardigan
- Coordinated belts or ties
- Footwear: Closed-toe shoes such as brogues, loafers, or oxfords.
What Not To Wear: Business Casual Edition
This list contains specific examples of what not to include in your business casual wardrobe.
- Open-toed shoes such as sandals or flip flops
- Crocs
- Tennis or athletic shoes
- Clothing that is wrinkled, stained, or torn (including distressed jeans)
- Any clothing that is either too loose, too short, or too tight.
- Skirts or shorts
- Crop tops, low cut tops, backless shirts,
- Strapless shirts, camis, or tank tops unless worn under a sweater, jacket, blazer, etc
- Any clothing that contains inappropriate or offensive wording or graphics
Again, if you are unsure of the specific dress code for your company and your particular role within that environment, it can not hurt to ask. The appropriate wardrobe also includes adhering to the dress code when it comes to hairstyle, facial hair, tattoo, and piercings, as well as any other specified guidelines enforced by your place of employment.
If you are still unclear about business casual or other work dress codes, reach out to Team Global / MSM. We can help you every step of the way. Contact us today to get a step in the right direction on your job search!