What is Business Casual Anyway?
I’d say definitely above sleepwear, beachwear and under club wear hahah
Business Casual means something different to everyone, but no matter where you work, flips and cutoffs just are not it.
For men, Business Casual is pretty straight forward. The major difference is no tie nor full on suit.
Business Casual Basics for men:?
As far as pants go: solid chinos, slacks, dark denim are great options to pair back to a sport coat and buttoned up or collared shirt .
If you work in a more casual environment then you can dumb down the shirt to a tee, something less dressy to pair back to dark denim.
Shoes: typically a loafer, derby or oxford
And it really depends on where you work and what business you are in. You may never have to wear a sport coat-especially if you work out of the house , but definitely be prepared to dress the part when need be!
John was our first model in this segment. He is the Director at a global data center company. He primarily works from home but frequently travels for client meetings and speaking engagements,
His Business Casual look is more on the conservative side -a sport coat , dress shirt , pants and no tie finished off with loafers.
Robert is a client advisor at Gucci, Neiman Marcus so his go to looks for business casual will be different ( in retail you typically have the freedom to be as creative was you want.) He is sporting a double breasted blazer, with dark blue skinnies and boots. His muse is Michael Kors- who always wears a jacket with tees and denim.
The key is to wear things you feel comfortable in bc when you’re comfortable you’re confident!
LADIES??â€â™€ï¸
Now Business Casual for women has so many options it can be overwhelming.
I will say I love a blazer. Love a jacket. These kind of pieces can tie a whole look together.
Alice i our first model and she is in real estate. She needs a variety of pieces bc she is often in and out of her car but still needs to look pulled together. Which is why I chose this Veronica Beard blazer that can literally be changed into a different look in seconds. The temps have been cool so she has on a puffer dickey/insert that zips into the jacket easily, but she could always take it out and wear the blazer alone or with a different insert like that totally transforms the look!
Jenn is an über busy mom , CEO of her household and is also involved in many groups so she needs easy go to nice and versatile business casual pieces for her lifestyle.
She’s wearing this amazing plaid cape by Trina Turk back to all black. Loving her leggings here: part leather part neoprene! finished off with a black Trina Turk blouse.
Last but not least! Angie is a partner at a wealth management firm. Being a busy mom as well she prefers go to pieces such as dresses that can be accessorized. Love this suede dress by Trina Turk! and the cardigan goes back to it perfectly, however she could put a moto jacket over it, wear a top under the dress, so may options!
Dresses are always a no brainer because it is one piece.
Bottom line– It really comes down to what is easiest for people in the am and what they feel their best and most comfortable in. Some clients prefer dresses that can go from day to night, some need super versatile pieces such as the Veronica Beard jackets and singular pieces that can go back to several options in their closet.
And whether you realize it or not, I always tell my clients people always have their eyes on you- so if you want the corner office, dress for it!
*MANY THANKS TO TOOTSIES IN BUCKHEAD AND TRINA TURK FOR LENDING THE CLOTHING FOR THIS SEGMENT! ???
THE BASICS of Business Casual
Business casual gives you flexibility with pants, but it is best to stick to a solid pair of chinos, slacks or khakis.
FOR MORE STYLE & TEXTURE
Wool or corduroy pants are cool options that provide a wide range of color and textures. Whichever option you choose, make sure the color is entirely different from the color of your blazer.
IF DENIM IS
Always stick to a darker wash that blends well with sweaters, button-ups and casual footwear.
The Collared Shirt
If the name of your casual game is sans tie, then you’ll most likely rely on a sleek sportshirt/ button-up. This can be paired with a sport coat or underneath a cashmere sweater or zip mock tneck sweater.
The Shoes
Business casual gives you an opportunity to make a statement with your shoes and you can safely rely on a derby, Oxford or loafer.
Boots can work well, too. If you go that route, stick to a polished leather boot that can be leveraged in both formal and casual settings, as can suede.
Visiting clients off-site? Some of these rules go out the window. Err on the side of formal to leave a great impression.
The Shirts
You have a little more room to breathe in a casual office setting, so casual button-ups and the occasional tee are absolutely fine to wear. When choosing your shirt, think of these tips:
STAND OUT, FOR THE RIGHT REASONS
If everyone in your office is wearing hoodies, it’s best to find a way to stand out. Switch it up every once in awhile, and if you opt for a T-shirt, go with a nice clean look
The Jeans
Denim is a staple in many less formal settings. You can still look like a professional with the perfect pair—stick to a fitted jean, with a straight or tapered leg. It’s best to save the distressed, ripped jeans for your next night out. Unless your office is a UPS truck, it’s best to leave shorts for the weekend.
The Shoes
Just because you have a super casual environment doesn’t mean you have to show up in a shoe designed for the gym. Opt for a slip-on or old-school trainer like a pair of Vans. Just be sure to keep the style simple and the color choice focused.
Boots or casual leather shoes will add an elevated vibe to your overall outfit, so reach for those anytime you have an important in-office meeting or are headed to date night directly after work
OFFICE CASUAL DOS
Enhance your personal brand by creating a unique identity through your style.
Stick with dark-wash jeans for a more polished, put-together vibe.
Play with patterned and printed shirts more often and just have fun with it.
OFFICE CASUAL DONT’S
Stay away from sweatpants and flip-flops
Shorts should never be in your rotation, unless you want to say, I prefer the beach over the corner office.
No workout shoes – make sure any sneakers you wear are clean and stylish.
The Shirts
You have a little more room to breathe in a casual office setting, so casual button-ups and the occasional tee are absolutely fine.
