Unraveling the enigma of business casual can be a daunting task. Let's embark on a journey to decode this dress code, exploring its origins, interpretations, and how it fits into today's corporate culture.
Simple tips to help you look sharp in the modern workplace
Business casual has become the norm in many industries
- Adhering to a dress code can show that you’re putting in a good faith effort to abide by the company’s culture
- For the first couple of weeks, err on the side of professional caution if you’re not sure if a particular outfit is appropriate
Gender-Neutral Policies
If a company’s dress code policy includes 10 pages on how women should dress and just one page on how men should dress, well, that’s problematic to say the least-it could also be grounds for a lawsuit. Gender-neutral policies “require attire professionally appropriate to the office or unit in which an employee works.”
What Is Never Considered Business Casual Attire?
Some types of clothing that even the most casual of dress codes probably won’t work
- Yoga or gym clothes
- Tank tops
- Graphic T-shirts
- Flip flops
- Nightclub attire
- Shorts (unless you work in Bermuda!).
Business Casual Attire Should: Fit properly
Not reveal too much skin
- Avoid loud patterns
- Always be in good condition
- Stains, wrinkles, holes, and worn patches are automatic disqualifiers
- Use your best judgement when choosing fabrics and patterns
Business Casual Is Just One Part of Workplace Etiquette
By taking cues from your colleagues and choosing outfits that reflect your workplace culture, you can stay within the boundaries of good taste
Are Jeans Business Casual?
It depends. If jeans are part of the business casual dress code, they should be darker washes, free of holes and fraying, and be neither too tight or too baggy
How to Dress for Your Workplace
Take a cue from the type of workplace you’re stepping into
- Consider what type of company it is
- Read the room
- During your hiring and onboarding process, observe what other wear on a typical workday
