Deciphering dress codes can be tricky, especially when you add a workplace into the mix. After all, every office is different and what you wear to work can have a significant impact on the way your boss and colleagues view you. That said, knowing the rules around what you should wear from Monday to Friday can actually help make getting ready each day a breeze. So, if your work calls for a business casual dress code, don’t despair. With a little help from us, you’ll soon be speeding through your morning routine and nailing every office outfit you wear. Here is our guide to dressing business casual for women.
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What is Business Casual?
Business casual is a standard dress code for many modern offices. Although the term can vary between specific workplaces, business casual traditionally denotes office-appropriate attire that appears smart without seeming overly formal. As such, there’s no need to wear a suit, but you should still aim for a polished look. To do so, try mixing tailored and traditional pieces with more comfortable and fashion-forward items.
Business Casual Attire
Summer Business Casual Attire
Although it can be challenging to beat the heat while still maintaining an appropriate appearance for the office, there are some excellent outfit choices for summer business casual attire. In particular, looks that feature light colors and garments in light and breathable materials, such as cotton, linen, and silk, are ideal for warm weather. Also, dresses and skirts can be useful for keeping your legs cool but remember to avoid overly tight styles that can generate heat.
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Winter Business Casual Attire
When dressing for winter business casual attire, be sure to opt for warm styles, such as shirts with long sleeves and knitted sweaters. Also, utilize layering to make light pieces more appropriate for the cold weather. For instance, you can wear a turtleneck top with a sleeveless dress, a camisole under a blouse, or stockings with a skirt. Be sure to also take a smart jacket or coat with you when traveling to and from the office.
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Business Casual Conference Attire
Dressing for a business conference needn’t be complicated. You just need to consider the location, including the destination’s weather/climate, to give you a guide on what to pack. Then, pick out appropriate pieces from your usual business casual closet for the day and add some dressier choices for any evening events. If the conference is lasting a few days or more, be sure to pack basic items in neutral colors that can work for many outfits. Also, add accessories, such as scarves or jewelry, to enhance your ensembles without overpacking.
Business Casual Outfits
Business Casual Pants
Whether cropped, wide-leg, straight or slim, pants are an excellent choice for women who must adhere to a business casual dress code. When selecting pants for the office, just choose a pair of smart trousers in a neutral shade, like black or tan, or a dark hue, such as burgundy or navy. Alternatively, a simple print can also be appropriate. When it comes to fabrication, selecting a pair with a little stretch will ensure maximum comfort when sitting down.
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Business Casual Jeans
Jeans can also make a good option for business casual wear but be careful. You don’t want to appear underdressed, so be sure to pick a pair that is polished and neat. To do so, select a slim or skinny style in a dark wash. Also, make sure your jeans aren’t faded and don’t feature any rips or frayed hems. Then, just partner your denim with a smart top and elegant shoes to ensure you appear sophisticated instead of sloppy.
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Business Casual Shirts
When selecting a shirt for a business casual outfit, you can either choose a classic cotton style or a more feminine silk or lightweight synthetic design. If you pick a cotton shirt, consider keeping your overall look subdued with neutral and soft colors. If you select a silk blouse, on the other hand, consider adding a pop of color or a print for fun. But remember, if your shirt is at all sheer, wear a camisole underneath.
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Business Casual Tops
Shirts aren’t the only tops you can wear to work. Other styles, such as keyhole blouses, long sleeve styles, and even smart tanks, can all be ideal for the office, so long as you ensure the neckline is modest. As for color, feel free to experiment with pops of pastels and jewel tones as well as subtle prints. Just add classic trousers or a skirt to balance any loud colors or patterns.
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Business Casual Jackets
Even if your office is warm, you’ll still require an appropriate jacket to take you to and from work during the colder months. To keep your outerwear appearing professional, opt for smart jackets and blazers in classic colors, such as black or navy. Also, ensure that you select well-fitting designs that are comfortable to wear.
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Business Casual Sweaters
Sweaters are an excellent addition to any business casual wardrobe. Not only do they appear smart, but they’re also ideal for winter, providing an extra touch of warmth when required. As such, you should invest in a variety of sweaters in a range of basic and fashion colors. Then, wear them as tops with pants and skirts or layer them over shirts and dresses.
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Business Casual Dresses
Although pants are a fantastic option for business casual attire, dresses can add a lovely diversity to your work wardrobe. As well as being ideal for warm days, dresses can also provide polished femininity that’s perfect for businesswomen. Just ensure that you pick appropriate styles, such as pencil, wrap or A-line designs, and that the length and fit are ideal for the office.
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Business Casual Skirts
Having a few chic skirts in your closet will instantly make nailing the business casual dress code easier. Not only are skirts stylish, but they are also versatile. When shopping for skirts for the office, note that pencil skirts are always appropriate, but don’t rule out A-line and pleated styles. Instead, just ensure the length and slit, if it has one, is suitable for your work.
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Business Casual Shoes
When it comes to business casual shoes, women have many fantastic options, including flats like loafers, brogues and ballet shoes, heels like comfortable kitten and block styles, and boots, which are ideal for winter. Whichever you pick, just ensure they’re comfortable, unscuffed and that any heel is an appropriate height. Also, keep embellishments, such as buckles and studs to a minimum.
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Business Casual for Plus Size Women
Today, there are plenty of fantastic business casual outfits for plus size women. So, if you’re curvy, you shouldn’t have trouble when shopping for items for the office. Just make sure you select garments with a flattering fit for your shape. When it comes to pants, consider opting for mid-rise designs, which tend to look better than low- and high-rise styles.
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Business Casual Tips
- Invest in quality basics that can be worn year-round and pick up affordable on-trend items to complete outfits each season.
- Keep hemlines around the knee and necklines not too revealing to ensure they’re appropriate for work
- Make sure all garments are clean, pressed, and free from wrinkles.
- Stick to essentials in neutral colors, such as grey, navy, black and white, then accent your outfits with pop-color or printed pieces.
- Complete your look with smart accessories, light jewelry, and low heels or dressy flats.
Buissness Casual Dress Code FAQs
What is not considered business casual?
Achieving a business casual look can be complicated because there is often a fine line between appropriate and too laid-back. Nothing too tight or too short should be worn; in general, no shorts, and care should be taken when choosing to wear jeans. It is also advisable to wear closed shoes, but flats or moderate heels are both acceptable choices.
Are jeans business casual for a woman?
Jeans can be worn for a business casual look, but they are a little trickier to get right. The key is to pick something slim-fitting and in a dark wash, and you will need to dress them up with a smarter top or blazer. Avoid anything distressed, with holes or slashes in it, and choose a straight hemline. To complete your look, pick elegant closed shoes. If you don't mind heels, they can also add a touch of femininity and sophistication to your appearance. If you are unsure about your choice of jeans, then opt for a different pair of well-fitted trousers to be on the side of caution.
Is a cardigan business casual?
A cardigan is definitely considered business casual, and for many women, it is a staple piece because it can be easily mixed and matched with so many things. It is also a nice alternative to a blazer, which, depending on the setting, can sometimes be a bit too formal. If you choose to wear this garment, then opt for one that is in a solid, neutral tone.
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