Guide to Casual Business Wear
Knowing dress can help you work your way up in your place of employment or make an appearance at a job fair less stressful. Many workplaces adopted the more-relaxed business casual dress code decades ago. The look can be achieved by following a few guidelines.
When to Dress Business Casual
Business casual attire can be appropriate in a number of professional settings, according to the Virginia Tech Division of Student Affairs.
Dress business casual when you are attending a job fair or job interview unless the employers you are targeting expect more professional attire, which means a suit.
If you are already employed, your company may have a business casual policy in place.
Shirts and Sweaters
If you are a man, wear a collared dress shirt that has been pressed neatly. Depending on the setting, long sleeves may be considered more appropriate than short sleeves. Make sure the shirt is clean and tucked in neatly. Wear white, light blue or another traditional color. Conservative stripes are also a common choice, according to DressCodeGuide.com. Do not wear French cuffs and cufflinks without a tie. As a general rule, ties are not a part of casual business wear.
Polo or golf shirts that are tucked in and do not have excessive writing on them may be used for more casual settings or outdoor events.
If you are a woman, a sweater makes an acceptable substitute for a dress shirt. Revealing shirts and cleavage are never considered proper business attire.
Skirts or Pants
Men should wear khaki or dark-colored pants that are neatly pressed and clean. Add a leather belt to dress up this casual look. Jeans may be appropriate, depending on the work setting. Do not wear jeans unless you ask someone first or have seen other employees wearing them.
For women, skirts should be at least knee length. Longer skirts should not be slit above the knee, according to Virginia Tech Division of Student Affairs. Nicely tailored casual pants in a dark color or khaki are OK, too.
Shoes and Socks
Men should wear socks that are the same color or darker than their pants. Black socks are common and usually work well. Socks should be mid-calf length. Do not come to work in ankle socks or socks with visible logos or patterns. Men's shoes should be leather and match the rest of the clothing. Never wear sneakers or sandals in a business casual setting.
Women's shoes can be fabric or leather and should cover the toes. Select a dark color such as black, navy or brown to match clothing, and avoid whites and pastels.
Accessories
Wear a watch, engagement ring or wedding ring if applicable. Women should wear simple earrings and avoid large, colorful earrings or big hoops and other dangling jewelry.
Keep any purses small and simple or opt for a briefcase. Do not wear a hat unless weather or safety conditions on the job call for it.
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