Business Casual

Career Topics: Dressing for Success -> Business Casual

There are many opinions regarding what type of clothing is considered business casual. For some companies, khaki pants and short-sleeved polo shirts are business casual. Other organizations require slacks or skirts and long-sleeved shirts when they refer to business casual.  However, there are some general rules that apply:

• Jeans, tennis shoes, tight or short skirts, t-shirts and sweatshirts are never considered business casual.
• Business casual does not apply to grooming standards. Your appearance should remain neat and respectable to include nicely pressed clothing, polished shoes, and conservative accessories.

The best way to determine a company's standard of dress is to conduct research or ask a company's representative. As always, when in doubt, dress conservatively and lean more toward the business side rather the casual side.

Men

• Ties not expected
• Business or sports jacket is appropriate
• Stylish, solid colored pants
• Long-sleeved solid or striped dark shirt
• Dark socks
• Matching belt and shoes

Women

• Business skirt or pants
• Conservative blouse or sweater
• Blazer or vest is appropriate
• Flat or low heels
• Neutral hosiery
• Belt, scarf, and accessories should remain understated

Credit: images courtesy of www.symsdress.com