Clothes are a basic need, but they serve more than that: They are a fundamental part of cultural and social identity. This is why you can tell the era in which someone lived by simply looking at their clothing and style.
In today’s business world, casual attire has become more accepted and popular in many workplaces. Men’s polo shirts, turtlenecks and chinos are now common business casual attire. However, finding a balance between comfort and professionalism can be challenging. Here are some easy tips to help you look stylish and feel comfortable all day long.
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What Is Business Casual?
A business casual dress code is a versatile and flexible style that strikes a perfect balance between professionalism and comfort in the workplace. It is a dress code that is typically less formal than traditional business attire, allowing individuals to express their personal style while still maintaining a level of professionalism appropriate for their professional environment.
It matters because while other people’s views on your attire are important, your own perception of it transcends all. A study posted in the Sage Journal of Social Psychological and Personality Science found that how you dress impacts how you see yourself, how you think and thus, your overall performance. Therefore, dressing in a way that makes you feel confident and comfortable is essential.
Business Casual: The Dos
First, you need to keep the business in business casual attire. This simply means that even though the dress code is more relaxed, your outfit should still convey a sense of professionalism and competence. You should take note of some of your workplace’s specific guidelines to avoid any confusion. For instance, if shorts are strongly prohibited, then don’t wear them.
Another essential aspect to keep in mind is to dress according to your individual style. Business casual doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your personal style and wear something that makes you feel uncomfortable. Instead, find ways to incorporate your personal style into your outfit while still maintaining a professional appearance.
Lastly, ensure that your outfit is neat, clean and well fitted. Avoid wearing wrinkled or stained clothes, as they can give off a sloppy and unprofessional impression.
Business Casual: The Don’ts
One of the main don’ts is to avoid overly casual clothing such as tank tops, flip flops and sweatshirts. These items are better suited for a day at the beach rather than a day in the office.
You also want to avoid revealing or tight clothing. Remember that business casual still involves maintaining professionalism, so it’s best to leave anything too revealing or form-fitting for outside of work.
Piling on the accessories can also make you look sloppy. Keep it simple and stick to one or two accessories at most, such as a watch and a belt. Too many accessories can be distracting and take away from the professional appearance you want to convey.
How To Stay Comfortable
Your attire will definitely vary according to the type of position you hold and the industry you work in. However, there are some general tips that can help you stay comfortable while still looking professional.
Footwear Is Key
The best thing about the business casual dress code is that it gives you a lot of flexibility when it comes to footwear. A pair of comfortable leather loafers can never go wrong. They are versatile and stylish and help maintain a level of dressiness needed in a professional environment.
Bicycle toe slip-ons are also very comfortable. They give your feet a lot of room to move and are great for people with wide feet. You can pair them with dress pants or khakis for a more polished look.
Boat shoes are another great option, especially during the warmer months. They are lightweight and breathable and give off a preppy vibe that is perfect for business casual attire.
If it’s a Friday and you are wearing a pair of black jeans, polished wingtip derby shoes are a great choice. They give you a classy and stylish look while still being comfortable enough for all-day wear.
Choose Materials Wisely
The type of fabric you choose for your attire plays a crucial role in your comfort. For business casual attire, opt for lightweight and breathable materials such as cotton, linen or merino wool.
Cotton is a favored option for casual t-shirts due to its inherent softness and breathability. A perfect example is a cotton monochromatic long-sleeved henley, which is a great alternative to a traditional dress shirt.
Linen is another excellent choice, especially during the summer. It is lightweight, breathable and has a relaxed feel that is perfect for casual business attire. A linen button-up shirt paired with chinos or khakis will give you a comfortable yet polished look.
Merino wool, while often associated with colder weather outfits, is also a great choice for business casual attire. It is breathable, odor-resistant and has moisture-wicking properties, making it comfortable to wear in any weather.
Other honorable mentions for business casual attire include chambray, seersucker and light flannel. These fabrics are lightweight, comfortable and have a more relaxed feel compared to traditional dress shirt materials like Oxford cloth or poplin.
Customize Your Look With Layers
If you want to throw on a quarter zip jacket or a cardigan, make sure they complement your outfit and don’t clash with the overall look. Layering is an excellent way to add some versatility and personal touch to your business casual attire.
Make sure the layers you choose are cohesive with the rest of your outfit in terms of color and style. For example, pairing a navy blazer with a white shirt may seem like a safe and classic option, but adding a colorful pocket square or patterned socks can add some personality to your look.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures as long as they complement each other. A plaid dress shirt paired with a herringbone blazer creates an interesting contrast that adds dimension to your outfit.
Balance the Outfit
The first rule for any business casual outfit is to read the room. Gauge the formality of your workplace and dress accordingly. If most people are wearing suits, it’s best to stick with more traditional business casual attire, such as a blazer and dress pants.
However, if your office has a more relaxed vibe, you can opt for a pair of dark jeans paired with a sports coat or cardigan. As much as you want to explore different styles and express your individuality, you don’t want to stick out like a sore thumb.
When it comes to balancing the outfit, think about proportions and fit. If you’re wearing a loose-fitting shirt or sweater, make sure your pants are more fitted to avoid looking too baggy overall. The same goes for the opposite — if you’re wearing looser pants, opt for a more tailored top.
Conclusion
Exploring your creativity in the confines of a business environment is one of the best ways to make your everyday fun and exciting. Don’t be afraid to try new things and step out of your comfort zone, but always make sure that your outfit is appropriate for the setting.
