Business casual can vary depending on the type of organisation environment. There is always a struggle to assemble the right outfit for a day every morning. Consequently, we find the attire business casual ambiguous to understand.
A business casual outfit is similar to the everyday corporate workwear however it is more flexible. So, it is a balance between looking corporate yet casual. Some organisations permit wearing of jeans, tees and flip-flops to work as business casual but gradually you will understand your organisations’ preference for business casual.
Business casual is mostly more of a laid-back corporate outfit like a shirt, trousers, no suit, and heels can be optional etc.
Here are some business causal essentials to have in your closet. For this purpose, each of the pieces listed below is versatile as it can be dressed up or down to enhance your style.
• A Classic Blazer and Suit
Equally important, owning a pair of a classic black blazer is essential in either dressing up for business corporate or business casual. The perfect fit blazer can transform any outfit into something that looks more elegant and mature. When picking out a blazer, be sure to go for a perfect fit, slightly cropped, or even opt for blazers without a button. This type of blazer will make you look stylish and professional rather than having an oversized blazer. However, in some instances, an oversized blazer would work for a different type of casual look. Here are some mixed looks to consider.
Suit by Banana Republic
Check Edge Blazer by Dorothy Perkins
Banana Republic Blazer
• Stylish Button Down Shirt and Top
You can never go wrong with wearing a stylish button-down shirt, as it is timeless. It is a comfortable but perfect type of corporate clothing, equally very versatile and it can also be styled up or down. Stylish button down shirt is different from the regular button shirt, as it is chicer with a bit of ruffle, bow, prints and pattern, etc. cold shoulder design may not be acceptable for work as it may make you look too casual than acceptable. Pair a stylish top of your choice for a business casual look.
Scallop Blouse by HM
Polkadot by HM
• A Pair of Comfortable Heels
Picking up a pair of shoes for a business casual outfit can be hard to decide because where some organisations are okay with wearing a pair of flat shoe or even sneakers, others may prefer heels.
It is safe to own a pair of comfortable pumps that can be worn every day because it works with every outfit. You can go for a pair of stilettoes, ankle boots or a block heeled shoes for a more laid back comfort vibe, as blocked heels are always great to dress up a casual outfit. Ankle boots with kitten heels can be a lifesaver when you do not feel like wearing heels.
Valentino Rockstud Leather Pumps
Balmain Panelled Toe Pumps
• Flat Shoes
Commonly in most business organisations, it is okay to wear flat shoes. It is up to you to decide what type of flat shoe you wear to work. A pair of oxford shoes or loafers is chic for work.
Office Loafers
Dorothy Perkins Embellished Pumps
• A Dress
Dresses are a common wardrobe staple for office wear. Unlike a more professional structured organisation, a business casual option gives you the opportunity to wear a more fun easy breezy dress. You can pair a simple shift dress, turtleneck or even a silk dress with classic heels or flats. There are different ways to style up and style down your dress as you can even pair it with a blazer or cardigan for a more put together casual vibe.
Dorothy Perkins Shift Dress
Gucci Tweed Dress with Bow
Valentino Wool Dress
• A Classy Tote
Investing in a good sophisticated tote for work is always worth it, as it is perfect for that extra room. Below are great examples to consider as it can fit in your laptop, file, journal and all your daily necessities to help you survive a full day at work. It is also a very stylish and classy bag that makes you look chic.
Tory Burch Tripple Compartment Tote
Tory Burch Fleming Tote
• A Comfortable Skirt and Pants
A skirt and pants are essential when building a work wardrobe for both professional and business casual look. Ensure that you own these staples. A skirt can be paired with any top of your choice i.e. a blouse, button-down shirt or a tee. A mid-length or short skirt is much more appropriate for work. Likewise, you cannot go wrong with a pair of perfect fit pants. A nice black pant is cool to have as you can wear it with any top of your choice. So, get yourself a pair of cigarette pants for that smart look.
Emporio Armani Bow Embellished Pencil Skirt
Banana Republic
• Perfect Fit Jeans
Business Causal allows jeans. Ensure that you wear nice structured jeans that fit perfectly on you. It is best to always pick a darker pair of jeans with no rips or patterns for work and professional occasions. Skinny fit jeans and boot cuts are perfect for work. It can be styled with a pair of heels or flats.
River Island High Flared Jeans
Levi Cropped Selvedge Jeans
Men, here are a few tips on how to build business casual workwear.
