Are you tired of the same old type of business casual outfit that feels boring and uninspired? It’s time to elevate your 9 to 5 style with some fresh and fashionable inspiration.
Whether you’re looking for ideas for a job interview, an important meeting, or just a day at the office, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore the latest business casual trends, show you how to mix and match different pieces, and answer some frequently asked questions about what to wear in a business casual setting.
What is Business Casual Dress Code?
Business casual is a dress code that is somewhere between formal business attire and casual streetwear.
It’s typically seen in office environments where employees are expected to look neat, professional, and put-together, but also have some flexibility in their choice of clothing.
The key is to find a balance between comfort and formality, without crossing the line into either extreme.
These basics look great on women over 40:
What to Wear for Business Casual?
When it comes to dressing for business casual, there are a few guidelines to follow:
- Avoid anything too revealing, such as short skirts, low-cut tops, or tight clothing.
- Stick to neutral colors like black, navy, beige, and grey.
- Choose fabrics that are appropriate for the office, such as cotton, wool, or polyester blends.
- Opt for clean and classic silhouettes, such as blazers, collared shirts, and slacks.
Where To Find Inspiration for Your Business Casual Outfits?
If you’re looking for some inspiration to spice up your business casual wardrobe, here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Pair a neutral blazer with a printed blouse and straight-leg trousers.
- Wear a collared shirt with a midi skirt and heels for a feminine touch.
- Experiment with patterns and textures, such as a striped shirt with a knit cardigan and chinos.
- Accessorize with a statement necklace or earrings for a pop of color.
How to Mix and Match Pieces for a Business Casual Look
To create a cohesive and stylish business casual outfit, it’s important to know how to mix and match different pieces. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Start with a basic piece, such as a blazer, trousers, or shirt, and build the rest of your outfit around it.
- Look for pieces that have similar colors or textures, so they complement each other.
- Mix formal and casual elements, such as a blazer with sneakers or a sweater with slacks.
- Add a pop of personality with accessories, such as a scarf, hat, or bag.
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Here are some answers to the business casual clothing questions I get most often from my readers and followers on YouTube:
Can I wear jeans to the office?
It depends on the company’s dress code and the formality of the occasion. If jeans are allowed, opt for a dark wash and pair them with a blazer or button-up shirt.
Is it okay to wear sneakers in a business casual setting?
Sneakers can be acceptable in a business casual environment, as long as they are clean and simple. Avoid flashy or athletic styles and opt for neutral colors that match the rest of your outfit.
How can I make my business casual outfits more interesting? I find my style so boring sometimes!
To make your business casual outfits more interesting, you can play with patterns, textures, and accessories. Try mixing stripes with florals, or pairing a leather bag with a wool blazer.
You can also add some personality with statement jewelry or a bold scarf. Remember to keep it professional and appropriate for the office, but don’t be afraid to express your individuality and style.
What are the best brands for business casual style?
When it comes to business casual style, there are many great brands to choose from. Here are some of the best:
1. Theory: This contemporary brand offers sophisticated and modern pieces that are perfect for a business casual setting. Look for their blazers, trousers, and knit tops.
2. Banana Republic: This brand offers a range of versatile and stylish pieces, including blazers, dresses, and blouses that can be dressed up or down.
3. J.Crew: With a focus on preppy and polished styles, J.Crew offers a variety of blazers, chinos, and dress shirts that are perfect for the office.
4. Club Monaco: This brand offers sophisticated and timeless pieces, with a focus on quality and attention to detail. Look for their blazers, trousers, and blouses for a business casual look.
5. H&M: With its affordable prices and trendy styles, H&M is a great option for those who want to update their business casual wardrobe without breaking the bank.
These are just a few of the many brands that offer stylish and professional pieces for a business casual look. Be sure to check out each brand’s website and stores to see their latest collections and find what works best for you!
Discover My Amazon Favorites!
Here you will find a selection of my favorite products.
These basics look great on women over 40:
Which are great fashion icons for business casual style to follow on social media?
There are many fashion icons who are known for their chic and stylish business casual attire. Here are a few that can provide inspiration for your own work wardrobe:
- Victoria Beckham: Known for her sleek and sophisticated style, Victoria Beckham often showcases a range of polished and professional business casual looks.
- Jenna Lyons: The former Creative Director of J.Crew, Jenna Lyons is known for her unique and quirky sense of style, often mixing patterns and textures for a fun and creative business casual look.
- Olivia Palermo: With her love for mixing high and low fashion, Olivia Palermo often showcases effortless and polished business casual outfits, incorporating statement accessories and pieces.
- Angela Ahrendts: As the former Senior Vice President of Retail and Online Stores at Apple, Angela Ahrendts was known for her stylish and professional business casual attire, often incorporating tailored pieces and statement accessories.
- Diane von Fürstenberg: As a fashion icon and the founder of her eponymous fashion brand, Diane von Fürstenberg is known for her chic and sophisticated business casual outfits, often incorporating bold prints and statement accessories.
These are just a few of the many fashion icons who can provide inspiration for your business casual style.
Take a look at their outfits and see what elements you can incorporate into your own work wardrobe!
My final thoughts on casual business style…
With these business casual outfit inspiration and tips, you’ll be able to step up your 9 to 5 style and dress for success in the office.
Whether you prefer a more traditional or a more creative approach, the key is to find a balance between comfort and formality, and to mix and match pieces to create a cohesive and stylish look.
So, go ahead and experiment with different styles and pieces, and have fun with your business casual outfits!
These basics look great on women over 40:
