A business-casual look is not necessarily for going out with friends because it is meant to be formal, but with a more casual appearance. Some companies prefer to provide employees with some comfort without jeopardizing the professional look. While picking your clothes, you should choose the outfits that look presentable. You shouldn’t mistake comfort for bohemian. We are going to help you in changing your wardrobe to get the best out of this look.
Look into Your Company’s Dress Code
You may be wondering why you need to ask about the dress code if you already know that it should be business-casual. Well, the definition of this look differs from one company to another. What is considered to be acceptable for one workplace may be different in another? There is a wide range of looks and colors that fall under this category.
The best way to get a better understanding of the dress code is to observe the other employees. To be on the safe side, go for the more formal look on your first day because it is better to be overdressed than underdressed, especially on the day of your interview. If you are dressing more casually, the employer may have a negative impression of you. You may give off the vibe of being an unprofessional slacker. This is why it’s better to keep the tie on rather than being told to wear it because you don’t look respectable enough.
If you have special medical requirements, you should let the human resources department know. For instance, some people must wear comfortable sneakers. Others cannot wear a tie because they have breathing issues. On the other hand, if you have religious-related reasons that prevent you from meeting the dress code, you should notify your boss.
What to Wear?
Shoes are a Bit Tricky
We are going to start at the bottom. While shopping, shoes can be a bit tricky because they can change how an outfit looks. First of all, turn your head away when you see open-toed shoes because they are unprofessional. Some people want to be comfortable, but that doesn’t mix well with formal dressings. That’s why some designers are trying to combine both by creating shoes that can be both at the same time. They think that vintage can be modified to make these shoes that every employee has been dreaming about. Some say that productivity hit the roof when your feet have enough room to breathe well.
The most common option is a loafer. It is relaxed but you will look dressed up regardless. If you prefer shiny items, brogues may fit you better. White shoes can be considered professional as well if they are clean. Since it is hard to maintain them, it is better to leave them as the last choice. For women, high heels can give a complete polished look. However, it’s best to stay away from shoes that have any kind of heel, or at least really high heels because they are bad for the back.
Choose the Right Pants
When you are shopping for pants, make denim the last option because they lean more towards the casual look. If you must go for it, don’t choose blue; buy black jeans because it looks smarter. However, you should avoid ones with lots of details and ripped ones as well. Khakis and chinos may fit this category better. They will give off the subtle and formal vibe regardless of the color.
Blazers
Suits are too formal for the business casual look. You can replace the jacket with a blazer, it can be either blue, black, gray, or light brown. It is less formal but still professional. Losing the full suit doesn’t mean getting rid of the tie as well. Some offices have strict rules that you should always wear a tie even if you are wearing a short-sleeved chemise.
Essential Rules
When you are shopping for business casual wear, make sure that the T-shirts or chemises have a collar. You must make sure that whatever you are wearing is unwrinkled and clean. Moreover, avoid oversized clothes because they take away any formality. The way you dress is more important than you think. Well-groomed clothes can open up chances for you. When it comes to colors, stick to neutral tones. You should never wear hot or neon colors. You will feel out of place and it may hurt your career.
Nailing the business casual look is a piece of cake if you know its outline. You just need to check with your company to know its dress code policy before transforming your wardrobe. We provided you with the easiest way to know how your fellow employees dress up, along with the type of comfy clothes that fits you without violating the dress code.
