Five Business Casual Clothing Staples

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Business casual is perhaps, the hardest clothing code to master. If you’ve never worked somewhere that required business casual, your boss has put one day down for business casual or etc., then you might be stuck having to show up to work with no idea of what to wear.

Business casual is, in fact, the informal version of professional clothing. The easiest way to explain it is as a simple mix of ordinary clothing and items for everyday wear and those that you would normally only wear professionally.

It’s always a good idea to stay slightly more on the formal side than the casual side, unless your workplace is very relaxed. Remember that while you can incorporate your everyday wear into your business casual outfits, you should steer clear of neon, low-cut tops, shiny fabrics, denim, rhinestones, sequins and overly tight shirts or bottoms. Instead, try opting for silks, rayon, cotton and etc. that isn’t too attention grabbing.

Pencil Skirts Can Be Worn Anywhere

A simple pencil skirt is a very stylish professional wardrobe piece that you can easily turn into something business casual. Try wearing casual tops such as an oversized white shirt that has been tucked in, a simple blouse or whatever else you like. Pencil skirts can also be paired with heels, t-shirts and small amounts of jewellery and still appear to be business casual. Usually it’s a great idea to wear a pencil skirt with heels, especially if you have something more formal that you plan on attending later in the day.

Little Black Dress

The little black dress has been a wardrobe staple for years, especially at parties. However; when you take the length into account (it should fall just above your knees), and you make sure that it isn’t too tight or too revealing, the LBD makes a great addition to your business casual closet. Try pairing a little black dress with chunky jewellery, cardigans and heels or ballerina flats for a perfect look. Remember that simple cuts will look more elegant while flared waistlines will look more girly and fun. You should also choose a dress that is cut to flatter your figure, and you should always avoid anything that is too tight. Pantyhose or tights are a great addition to wear with a dress because you won’t have to worry about revealing too much if your dress is blown up, or if you sit the wrong way.

Black Cotton Slacks

When teamed with a blazer and a white button down, a pair of black cotton slacks can look incredibly professional. However; if you pair them with fun, colourful blouse and chunky jewellery, they can be very business casual as well. Remember that slacks should be neither tight nor loose and should be snug enough around the waistband that you can tuck oversized shirts into the top. It’s always a great idea to pair shirt colours such as burgundy, white, blue or prints with black cotton slacks because they are basic enough that you can get away with a more colourful top.

3-Inch Pumps

There’s something classically sexy and fun about a pump, and if you keep the height under three-inches then you can wear it anywhere. While your feet might not like you if you have to walk all day, three-inch pumps are considered classy, respectable and can be worn for business formal or business casual. A plain black pump can be worn to the most places, however; if you have colours like black, white and beige in your business casual outfit then you can opt for nearly any colour or design. Try to remember that closed-toe shoes are usually for the best in a business environment.

Oversized Sweater

This comfortable classic is great for pairing with leggings, for tucking into skirts or tuxedo pants and even for wearing over a dress. Try getting a nude or beige colour for the most flattering effect.

Remember that casual to semi-formal shrugs are always a great option to add to your business casual wardrobe. If you get cold, you can easily throw a shrug on over your current outfit!