Navigating the “Business Casual” Dress Code
- By Hendrik Pohl
- Published January 16, 2009
- Advice
- Unrated
Hendrik Pohl
H Pohl is the founder of Cheap-Neckties.Com. In his free time he enjoys writing articles on mens fashion for online magazines, and his own fashion blog. Cheap Neckties offers more than just affordable designer neckties. The blog section offers valuable dress code advice such as what to wear for a job interview, how to dress black tie, and more.
View all articles by Hendrik Pohl
Modern times have brought about a dress code often referred to as business casual. This dress can vary wildly from industry to industry, location to location and company to company. Here are some tips to help you ensure that you don’t over or under dress the next time you need to dress in a business casual style.
What Pants To Wear
Business casual almost never means jeans. Usually khaki pants that are properly pressed and made of a high quality material are the best selection. Cotton, wool, twill, and gabardine are appropriate material choices. The heavier the fabric, typically the more polished and formal the look. If you are afraid that the pant may be too casual, choose a gabardine version in a tailored cut. Pleated pants are often more “dressy” that flat front and you should almost always choose a straight cut leg.
What Shirt To Wear
No matter what shirt you choose, you should always choose one with a collar. Business casual means there is no need for a neck tie, but you should never go so casual as to wear anything resembling a t-shirt. Collared polo shirts and crisp button ups are always a safe bet. Solid colors are the most classic look, but prints such as checks and stripes can also be acceptable. Always be sure and tuck the tail of the shirt into your pants.
What Jacket to Wear
Many times jackets are not necessary with a business casual look, but they will never be wrong
either if you choose the right one. Be sure to choose a sports jacket or blazer and never a more formal suit jacket. Carefully pick a jacket in a classic cut and more casual fabric to not look over done. Be sure that if you choose a jacket with a pattern that it is not loud or gaudy. Checks and hound’s tooth are popular choices, but when in doubt, always stick with a solid.
What Accessories to Wear
Always wear a belt. Forgetting the belt leaves the look unfinished and sloppy. Your belt should match your shoes and should be high quality. If your belt starts looking cracked or worn, don’t keep wearing it with your business casual attire! Some men who actually like to wear neckties can do so appropriately with business casual dress even though they are not required. Be sure to pick a necktie that is in a more casual pattern, cut, and material. A great watch is another accessory to think about. Make sure to wear a watch that matches your other accessories for a sophisticated casual look.
What Briefcase to Carry
If you have the need to carry things to a business casual event or day at the office, don’t think you can get away with lugging your stuff in a backpack. Simple leather briefcases that match the color of your shoes and belt will be just fine. If there are things you intend to carry that won’t fit in a briefcase, choose a sporty messenger style bag that coordinates with your outfit. Think of it as the male version of a woman’s purse and understand if you want to look put together, it should match the rest of your ensemble.
What Pants To Wear
Business casual almost never means jeans. Usually khaki pants that are properly pressed and made of a high quality material are the best selection. Cotton, wool, twill, and gabardine are appropriate material choices. The heavier the fabric, typically the more polished and formal the look. If you are afraid that the pant may be too casual, choose a gabardine version in a tailored cut. Pleated pants are often more “dressy” that flat front and you should almost always choose a straight cut leg.
What Shirt To Wear
No matter what shirt you choose, you should always choose one with a collar. Business casual means there is no need for a neck tie, but you should never go so casual as to wear anything resembling a t-shirt. Collared polo shirts and crisp button ups are always a safe bet. Solid colors are the most classic look, but prints such as checks and stripes can also be acceptable. Always be sure and tuck the tail of the shirt into your pants.
What Jacket to Wear
Many times jackets are not necessary with a business casual look, but they will never be wrong
What Accessories to Wear
Always wear a belt. Forgetting the belt leaves the look unfinished and sloppy. Your belt should match your shoes and should be high quality. If your belt starts looking cracked or worn, don’t keep wearing it with your business casual attire! Some men who actually like to wear neckties can do so appropriately with business casual dress even though they are not required. Be sure to pick a necktie that is in a more casual pattern, cut, and material. A great watch is another accessory to think about. Make sure to wear a watch that matches your other accessories for a sophisticated casual look.
What Briefcase to Carry
If you have the need to carry things to a business casual event or day at the office, don’t think you can get away with lugging your stuff in a backpack. Simple leather briefcases that match the color of your shoes and belt will be just fine. If there are things you intend to carry that won’t fit in a briefcase, choose a sporty messenger style bag that coordinates with your outfit. Think of it as the male version of a woman’s purse and understand if you want to look put together, it should match the rest of your ensemble.