Dos and don’ts
Business casual is a fashion statement that emphasizes sophistication and style. It is intended to give you a professional impression. However, you need to follow a few simple rules if you want to look your best in your new business casual wardrobe.
One of the biggest dos and don’ts is to avoid wearing loud or colorful pants. You may want to wear them on weekends or during the summer, but they are not appropriate for work. For this reason, you should opt for dress slacks or chinos. You should also keep in mind the quality of your trousers. If you don’t have a lot of money, you can rent a stylish pair of pants or jeans through sites like Rent the Runway.
You should also avoid wearing shirts with graphics. Although a graphic tee is not a bad idea, it’s better to choose a plain t-shirt. You should also make sure that your bra straps aren’t visible.
If you are a woman, you should be especially cautious about bra straps. You might need to buy a shirt to cover your bra straps.
You can wear skirts, but you should avoid those that are too short. You can also wear a blazer in a contrasting color. It’s a good way to add flair without breaking the bank. You should also wear a neutral belt.
You should always wear a pair of shoes that are universally attractive. For instance, leather shoes are easy to match with most outfits. You can choose a pair of wedges to keep the height of your heels while still maintaining a professional look.
There are also a few dos and don’ts when it comes to makeup. Dark makeup is not appropriate for your workplace. For this reason, you should opt for a lighter shade of makeup and wear a neutral lip color.
You should also stay away from wearing flip flops. If your office has a lax dress code, you might be able to wear a pair of capri pants. You can also wear sneakers.
Women’s business casual
Women’s business casual attire can vary from office to office. There are some standards you should follow to ensure that you look professional and presentable while remaining comfortable.
First, avoid anything that’s too casual. It’s best to choose neutral shades. They’re the easiest to match and are also the most suitable for work wear. The color you choose should reflect your personal style. If you want to spice things up, opt for a bright scarf or statement jewelry.
You should also avoid dresses that have cut-outs or loud prints. Instead, opt for pencil-cut or A-line dresses. These are safe choices because they’re neither too tight nor too loose. Ideally, they’re at least knee-length.
Make sure your footwear is appropriate. While some may be tempted to wear sneakers or open-toed flats, these generally aren’t appropriate. On the other hand, heels are acceptable. If you need to take a trip to the doctor, you might be allowed to wear flats.
It’s also a good idea to keep your makeup natural. Too much makeup will overpower your outfit. You should stay away from any clothing that is too low-cut or has visible bra straps.
If you’re going to wear a blazer, be sure to have a tailored one. You can even pair a sleeveless top with a blazer to dress up your casual outfit. You can also add a printed blouse. You can opt for a classic pattern or a subtle print to give your outfit a fresh appeal.
Lastly, you should carry a structured bag. While fabric totes are fine, a structured bag is a better option.
For some women, finding the right combination of work clothes and accessories can be a bit overwhelming . If you’re not sure what to wear, ask a colleague or the human resources department of your company for advice. You might also consider checking out a site like Indeed, which provides career tips and advice.
