Ah, business casual. People start sweating when they hear this dress code tossed around for an event or a new job.
We can all agree it’s a tricky one. Does it mean you can wear jeans or sneakers? Is a skirt or pants better? What about accessories?
To help clear up the confusion, we created the ultimate guide on how to dress women’s business casual. You’ll find tips on what to wear, what to avoid, and a few simple outfit ideas to try. So, let’s get started!
What is Business Casual?
The business casual dress code is a step down from traditional office attire, but more polished than regular streetwear. It allows workers to wear comfortable clothes while still looking professional. How much business versus how casual your clothes can be varies by industry.
Business Casual vs Professional Attire
Okay, so how does business casual differ from traditional professional attire?
Professional attire is classic office attire, like you might see in the 80s or 90s. Full suits and ties for men and skirts or pantsuits for women. It focuses more on formality than comfort.
Business casual is far more relaxed. While wearing skinny jeans and hoodies to the office is still inappropriate, you may be allowed to wear jeans, nice sneakers, and brighter colors.
Business Casual Pieces
Tops
When shopping for work, you’ll want to spend most of your money on tops. By purchasing a selection of nice shirts and blazers, you’ll be able to make your wardrobe look bigger than it is.
Business casual appropriate shirts include button-up shirts, blouses, and sweaters. Polo shirts and nice T-shirts are also acceptable in some workplaces. And don’t forget blazers, the quintessential piece you see in every office.
The tops you choose are the best place to show your personality and style. It may take a little hunting to find the perfect business casual top that still feels like you, but it’s worth the effort to feel fantastic at the office.
Bottoms
Bottoms are where you can get away with repeating the same piece with multiple tops, meaning you need fewer of them to round out your wardrobe. Focus on getting a few high-quality, neutral bottoms that match most of your tops.
Business casual allows skirts and pants as part of its dress code. For pants, well-fitted trousers are going to be your best friend. Plenty of styles and fabrics are out there, so experiment to see what you like best.
Some offices may also allow jeans, but make sure they’re a classic wash, relaxed fit, and hole-free. When in doubt about jeans, don’t wear them.
For skirts, choose pieces that fall below the knee and above the ankle. Pencil skirts, swing skirts, and wrap skirts are all common options. Look for classic cuts and designs rather than trendy ones for a lasting wardrobe investment.
Dresses
Dresses are perfectly acceptable under the business casual dress code. Choose classic dresses that fall below the knee, just like with your skirts. Avoid loud prints or avant-garde designs so you remain professional.
Shoes
What shoes count as business casual is often debated and varies from office to office. But generally, you can’t go wrong with flats, low heels, and boots. Your shoes should be comfortable and have closed toes. Sneakers may be appropriate, but aim for professional ones, not running shoes.
Accessories
Accessories can be a great way to add personality to a business casual outfit, although we again recommend subtlety. Jewelry can be fun, but not too big or too loud.
And don’t forget the purse you’re carrying. Medium to large structured handbags are generally more appropriate than tiny or trendy designs.
Scarves are also a great way to add a bit of personality to your outfit. Consider a simple silk or cotton scarf instead of a necklace, especially in the fall or winter.
Items to Avoid
While business casual is more relaxed, there are some things you should avoid unless you know for sure your workplace allows them.
- Sheer clothing
- Overly tight pants or tops
- High slits
- Ripped or skinny jeans
- Loud prints
- Graphic tees
- Heels higher than 3”
- Sandals and flip-flops
- Revealing clothing
- Spaghetti straps or strapless tops
- Neon colors
Simple Business Casual Outfit Ideas
By now, you should have a feel for what you can and can’t wear. But if you need more outfit inspiration, here are five classic looks using basic business casual pieces.
Trousers and Button-Up
A pair of wide-legged trousers and a tucked-in button-up shirt is a classic business casual outfit that works all year round. Add loafers and a leather bag to finish the look.
Dress and Blazer
The base layer of this look is a professional dress. Complete the look with a blazer, a necklace, and heels.
Pantsuit
Pantsuits make getting dressed simple, because 2/3rds of the outfit is already decided. Pick a simple business top and flats, and you’re ready to rock the office.
Skirt and Cardigan
A classy pencil skirt and fitted cardigan are a simple outfit that looks as good at a networking event as they do at your desk. Finish your outfit with pumps and a hair accessory, like a headband, for an extra feminine touch.
Blazer and Jeans
Start with a classic pair of dark-wash jeans and a blouse. Top it with a blazer to elevate the pants and finish with loafers or nice sneakers.
Tips for Dressing Business Casual
Check the Dress Code
Many workplaces provide guidelines on what to wear as part of the new hire paperwork. This is a great starting point to understand where your company’s dress code falls on the scale of business-to-casual.
Dress Nicer
When in doubt, dress more formally. It’s better to be overdressed than under. You don’t want to be the only person in the room wearing jeans on your first day.
Copy Others
Seeing what others wear in your workplace is a great way to figure out what is or isn’t allowed. You can also ask your coworkers if you have questions about a particular piece of clothing, like sneakers, that isn’t covered in the dress code.
Don’t Be Scared of Color
For years, neutral colors have reigned supreme in workwear. But more vibrant colors are welcome these days, as long as they still look professional. Again, check with your dress code or coworkers if you’re unsure.
Be You
Finally, don’t forget to insert your own personality into your business casual outfits. Maybe that’s by the styles you pick, the colors you choose, or the accessories you like. Find a way to balance appropriate attire and your own style for a look that makes you feel like yourself.
By now, you should be ready to tackle the world of dressing business casual. You don’t have to be the one person dressed wrong at the office or a party anymore.
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