How to Dress Business Casual throughout the Year
You don't have to look too far in today's business environments to find professionals who abide by a business casual dress code, and their numbers are growing. This popular class of attire boasts greater comfort for wearers during the workday as well as smoother transitions into and out of the workday. As the line between home life and work life begins to blur, however, one can understandably start second-guessing the appropriateness of a given outfit for a workplace setting.
Below are some suggested business casual clothing articles and outfits, perfect for both strolling along the office hallways and downtown sidewalks alike. Add these elements of comfort and convenience to your wardrobe so you can confidently dress for success, all year long.
Warm Weather Wardrobe
In warm regions, or during warm months, the business casual look often manifests through bold and bright colors, in contrast to traditional business attire that usually calls for an array of whites, blacks and grays. Committing to go casual introduces a more diverse color spectrum into your wardrobe. You can easily begin adding color by investing in a mix of bright solid or patterned sportshirts. If donning bold colors isn't your style, try pairing a classic pastel-colored shirt with a pair of beige chinos or khakis, as an alternative.
Khakis are perhaps the most popular option for business casual pants in warmer temperatures. On the formality scale, they fall somewhere between dress pants and jeans, although they look sharpest when constructed from wrinkle- and stain-resistant materials in a slim, modern cut - see JoS. A. Bank's Traveler Tailored Fit Khakis for a perfect example. Linen suit separates are also an ideal choice for warm climates; just be sure to choose pants that aren't too baggy and that don't pool on top of your shoes.
Speaking of shoes, the right pair can bring balance to casual and formal wear and complete your business casual look perfectly. Suede loafers are a great option for business casual footwear in the spring and summer, and while many people believe they're too casual to be worn with suits, they do pair well with sport coats, dress pants and casual pants.
As for accessories, try donning linen and cotton ties in solid neutrals or bold patterns, switching out your leather watch and bag for canvas alternatives, and keeping your feet sweat-free with thin cotton socks.
Cold Weather Wardrobe
In cooler temperatures, look for pieces you can easily layer to add warmth. A collection of slim cashmere or wool sweaters complements a solid or patterned dress shirt. Wearing a gingham shirt underneath a solid blazer or v-neck sweater helps balance out the busy pattern. Unlike warmer environments, a muted or dark color palette is both seasonal and business appropriate for fall and winter.
Sportcoats and jackets are great options for layering and exemplify the business casual dress code. A tweed or corduroy jacket paired with a scarf is the perfect look for a crisp, fall day. When the weather gets even colder, break out your favorite wool peacoat. When it comes to pants, wool trousers keep you warmer than their linen or cotton counterparts, while maintaining a casual appearance. Some work environments permit the wearing of dark jeans with a nice shirt or blazer; get a feel for what people are wearing around the office before investing in this look.
Winter accessories, like scarves or gloves, are welcome in business settings as long as they are made from quality, solid materials. Combine form and function with weatherproof shoes with rubber soles or ankle boots that protect you from the elements.
