Many companies are finally back in the office. That means it’s time to ditch those pajamas and dig out work clothes from the back of the closet.About 25% of offices have a business casual dress code, according to a pre-pandemic survey by Randstad US. right place.
Here are some guidelines to follow when dressing for business casual work, and some outfits to inspire post-work shopping. Bonus: If you’re job hunting on websites like ZipRecruiter or Indeed, these can double as your interview outfit and help you look professional and polished.
business casual dress rules
Business casual wear is designed to strike a balance between comfort and professionalism. You don’t have to wear
For women, business casual attire often includes:
For men, business casual attire requires:
collared shirt or button down
sweater
Casual slacks such as khaki and chino pants
dress shoes, loafers, or nice boots
Some offices also allow nice denim (think dark solid colors with no rips or tears) and open-toed shoes during the summer months. However, it is a good idea to check with your employer if these garments are appropriate before wearing them at work.
1. Go trendy with wide leg trousers
Slacks and blouses are a staple combination for women, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t look boring. Stay on trend by incorporating wide-leg pants into your work wardrobe. The Islet pants fit the bill perfectly. Made from a luxurious cotton-linen blend, it’s available in white or light yellow to add a pop of color to your outfit.
These pants pair perfectly with any solid top, but we love the Faherty Willa Peasant Blouse, which features a subtle pleated look and subtle ruffles on the sleeves and collar. The shirt is available in 5 colors and is made from 100% organic cotton.
Finally, slide Naturalizer Cayden Mules onto your feet to complete this look. These open-back shoes are extremely comfortable for a long day at the office, and the trendy square toe and chain accent on the front give them a professional look.
2. Keep it simple with a pretty dress
On days when you don’t want to mix and match separates, put on a business casual dress and get ready. Floral flutter sleeve flare dress is a dress that can be worn in the office with a moderate knee-length hem and short sleeves. But it boasts a flattering waist tie and a stylish mock neck. The tan fabric is studded with large burgundy flowers and comes in a wide range of sizes from 00 to 18.
The dress is easy to pair with flats and heels, and the Lifestride Giovanna 2 Pumps are maroon to match the floral motif perfectly. A closed toe that is easy to use in the office, a zip-up back that is easy to wear, and a low heel that is easy to walk in.
A thin croissant dome hoop adds a classy finishing touch to this elegant look. Handcrafted in gold vermeil, a thick layer of 18K gold over sterling silver, this piece is sure to become a staple in your work wardrobe.
3. Reach for wardrobe staples
Listen, guys. You’ll need a few pairs of nice pants to wear to work each week. The Stretch Washed Chino 2.0 is a worthy addition to your wardrobe. These pants are the perfect combination of comfort and professionalism and are available in dozens of colors to suit every style. Available in 5 different fits including Slim, Tapered, Tailored and Athletic.
These chinos can be paired with a nice button-down top, such as an organic cotton shirt. Yes, the button-down hem is short enough to reach the hips and is easy to tuck in, making it perfect for layering in winter.
Finally, you can complete your business casual look with Kenneth Cole Destin Slip-Ons. The sleek cognac leather exterior gives it a look that’s perfect for the office, while the sole cushions you in comfort whether you’re commuting to work or walking around on your lunch break.
4. Bundle up in cold weather
When it gets colder, you can replace your usual blouse with a warm top like BP. Ribbed crewneck sweater. Available in four colors, including bold bright blue, and sizes from XS to XXL. The top has voluminous sleeves and thick stitching, making it stylish whether worn tucked in or worn loosely.
Team this sweater with the Essential Slim Kick Flare Pants for a trendy fall ensemble. Tailored pants sit just above the ankle to show off your shoes and come in standard, tall, and plus sizes.The black option is versatile for everyday wear, but the pants also come in other colors and patterns. .
This outfit calls for cute booties, and the Marc Fisher Glorify Boots are the perfect option for the job. Featuring a leather upper and a stylish pointed toe, it’s available in black, brown, and white styles.
5. Express your personality with bold prints
With items like the REISS Jackson Pencil Skirt, business casual outfits can make your personality stand out even more. The high-waisted design is navy blue with a tan floral pattern and the hem is mid-calf, making it suitable for office use. There’s a pocket in the front to hold your phone, and a slit in the front gives you more freedom of movement than a traditional pencil skirt.
The skirt has a lively pattern, so we recommend pairing it with a plain silky color blouse. Made from a satin-like fabric with a pointed collar and long sleeves, the sheer material tucks easily into a skirt (or other bottom to pair with it).
You can accessorize this look with layered necklaces, such as Madewell’s Women’s Coin Necklace Set. It includes 3 complementary necklaces in alternating lengths so they can be easily stacked.
6. Wear it with a cardigan
A simple dress like the Calvin Klein Sheath Dress is another must-have in your business casual wardrobe. This classic design comes in several professional colors and sizes from 4 to 14. The dress is sleeveless in a flattering sheath silhouette with an exposed zipper at the back.
If your workplace tends to get chilly, a ramie rayon cardigan can easily be layered over a dress. There is a hem. With a semi-fit silhouette that hangs over the waist, it’s a versatile item that you’ll want to add to your closet.
If your workplace allows open-toed shoes, you can complete this look with the Soda Topshoave Wait Womens Open Toe Sandals. Available in a variety of colors, including cognac, black, white, and natural, you can’t beat the budget-friendly price.
7. Stay cozy in a warm winter sweater
Most business casual dress codes allow men to wear nice sweaters for cold weather. The Polo Ralph Lauren Cable Knit Cotton Sweater is a classic choice. A traditional cable knit design with long sleeves, ribbed cuffs and the brand’s signature pony embroidery. Sweaters come in a variety of colors and can be easily worn over a button-down or worn alone.
Your favorite sweater can be paired with plain pants like the Ultimate Tech Chino Pants. This pant comes in several neutral colors including shades of brown, blue and black. Available in sizes 26 to 54, the pockets have a special lining to keep your phone screen clean.
You don’t have to wear traditional dress shoes for a business casual workplace. Instead, you can opt for something more comfortable like Sperry’s Authentic Original Boat Shoe. These iconic shoes are crafted from full-grain leather with hand-stitched moccasin construction for a snug fit and all-day comfort.
8. Layering for a stylish look
For ultra-stylish workwear, try the Rag & Bone Priya Tweed Vest over a sheer long sleeve top like Floerns Women’s Button Front Blouse. (You’ll also need to wear her black t-shirt or tank top under the blouse.) Vests come in sizes 00 to 16 and have adjustable straps across the back for a snug fit.
Over this layered look, you’ll want simple pants like the Never Fade Pixie Skinny Ankle Pants in fun colors like bourbon and terrestrial green. The color does not fade no matter how many times it is washed, and the high-rise waistband has a slimming effect.
Finally, you can complete the look with a retro shoe like the Crown Vintage Penny Loafer. The platform sole adds a bit of height and can be paired with ankle socks for a trendy yet office-friendly look.
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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published, but may change over time.
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