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As the return-to office date creeps closer, so does the uncertainty over what you should wear. If you are returning to work, you may need to update your wardrobe with new office-friendly apparel. The clothing you choose for business casual should allow you to be comfortable while maintaining a professional look. Think blazers and tailored skirts. Pantsuits and sheath dresses are also good options.
To create a stylish look with business casual attire, you’ll need to use your arsenal of staples that can be layered like button-ups or dressy T-shirts. You don’t need to stick to a uniform. You may choose to shop for business casual pieces like closed-toed heels and knee-length skirts, but accessories can add personality. To differentiate your business casual look, add a designer bag or a favorite statement piece of jewelry.
What is business casual?
Business casual has many different meanings, depending on your company, job and office location. It’s best to consider it a hybrid between formal business wear and everyday casual clothing. You don’t have to wear a suit to look “put-together”, but your outfit should still be stylish enough to make it appear that you put some thought into your wardrobe. Mixing interesting separates with accessories can be a great way to create a unique look. For example, a sleek moto-jacket and new jewelry or neutral slacks with a pattern blouse. The business-casual style allows for more personality and fashion in workwear.
Business casual vs. Professional
Business casual is more flexible and allows for more flexibility in your wardrobe. However, the business professional dress code is reserved for work environments that are stricter, such as government, law or banking. This setting is characterized by neat suits, blazers and shirts (no wrinkles!). It’s important to keep your clothes tailored and neat. Avoid bright colors, and limit accessories to just a belt or simple jewelry.
Where to buy business-casual clothes
Our fashion team has a few go-to places for stylish business-casual clothing. These include COS The Frankie Shop Club Monaco Henning Universal Standard Misha Nonoo Tibi Anine Bing Nanushka Vince Veronica Beard Victoria Beckham. Continue reading to find a selection of stylish business-casual clothes, as well as some styling tips.
Dress for business casual in style
Sheath dresses that hit below the knee are considered to be business casual. You can layer non-distracting prints and roomy silhouettes under structured jackets or blazers to be ready for any office meeting.
Jeans – Business casual or not?
Although some companies may consider jeans to be business casual, especially on Fridays or designated days of dressing down, in general it is best to only wear them if you have HR’s approval. Denim can be worn if there’s a dress-code in the office, but you should pay attention to details like wash and cut. Avoid ripped jeans and acid-washed styles, for example. Reserve those deconstructed pairs of jeans for the weekends.
Best casual pants for business
Most office pants are made of straight-leg or high-rise trousers, in a fit you feel comfortable with. You can express your personality with colors other than brown and black.
What to wear for business casual?
You can still wear trendy pieces even if your workplace requires business casual attire. Add a handbag with an unusual shape to your outfit. Try out other elements that are trendy, like outerwear with sharp shoulders and loafers with platform.
The best business casual tops
You can wear any of the tops you like, but button-down shirts and cashmere tees with pussy-bows, collared shirts and cashmere sweaters are popular. If you have a stricter dress code, choose shirts with crisp collars and tailored suits. Avoid anything too sheer. If you’re in a more relaxed office, try layering and accessorizing.
Dressing summer business casual
Yes, you can wear shorts in a business casual office. Especially if they are tailored to a bermuda-length. Style loose pairs of shorts with fitted sweaters and heels to make them more comfortable. You’ll look great for your big presentation, but you’ll also be more comfortable during the summer heat wave.
The best business casual skirts
For a casual business look, a midi or maxi skirt will do. To update these classic silhouettes, try adding leather accessories (such as your favorite belt or loafers).
The best blazers for business casual
Every wardrobe should include a business casual blazer. It should be lightweight to allow it to be layered easily under a jacket during cooler months. Choose neutrals like linen or silk and experiment with prints to break out of your comfort zone.
Best business casual shoes
Business-casual footwear includes minimalist flats, leather knee-high boots and sleek loafers. These styles are timeless so invest in a designer you love. You’ll likely wear them all year round with your favorite pants, jackets and outerwear.
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