Head to Toe Series: Call Me Business Casual

During my first year of college I had a huge presentation for my Business Communication class. The syllabus stated to dress in business attire for the presentation so I wore loose trousers and a button-down shirt.  My presentation went smoothly and class feedback followed.  I received mostly positive comments until my professor said “In the syllabus it said to dress professionally.” Confusion set in as I thought “I did follow the instructions.”  What I failed to realize at that time was there are two categories of business attire: business formal (for interviews and fancy dinner meetings) and business casual (for most work days and Casual Fridays).


Business casual is the most difficult business term to define. This is due to the constant changes in th fulcrum of the business casual teeter-totter which makes it hard to find the appropriate balance. Due to the variability of business casual appropriateness you should adopt the motto: “When in doubt, dress conservatively.”

Despite the obvious challenges caused by the lack of a concrete definition for business casual there are still a few great tips that can keep you in the appropriate category:

Head

The same guidelines apply as those for the interview style: no funky hair colors or hair styles

 

Go for a natural make-up look. Add pizzazz with a bright lipstick or colored lip-gloss (peaches, pinks, and reds work best).

   

Body

The polish in business casual comes from structured pieces.

Wear a nice dress with built in structure. You can top it off with a cardigan.

 

Opt for a blouse with trousers or skirts instead of a button-down shirt.

 

Avoid jeans or any fabric that looks like it unless you are explicitly told that it is acceptable.  Instead choose fabrics like tweed, linen, and cotton

 

Toes

Opt for closed-toe shoes, maybe a cute peep-toe if your nails are well manicured. Avoid strappy heel (you’re not going clubbing) and ask about the policy on sandals before you wear them.

   

This list is very basic as the world of business casual is multifaceted. Always ask prior to an event what is considered appropriate dress; you’ll escape plenty of uncomfortable situations by doing so.

For additional information about business casual dress:

ReaderRequest: How to Do Business Casual

How to Dress Business Casual: Women

What to Wear: For Work

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