What does business casual mean?

Perhaps your recruiter has let you know that the dress code is business casual for your upcoming interview. Or, maybe you landed a job recently and you were informed by Human Resources to show up for your first day in business casual attire. Regardless, the term “business casual” can be a cause of confusion.

What does business casual attire mean? And how do you dress professionally yet appropriately when this is a company’s dress code?

In this guide, we will help you understand what business casual means, how you can create a business casual wardrobe, and some basic dos and don’ts when dressing for business casual settings.

The meaning of business casual

There is no single definition for business casual, which is why many professionals are confused by this term. While every company may interpret business casual a little differently, the basic meaning of this dress code remains the same:

A professional style of dress that is less formal than traditional business attire.

For example, rather than showing up in a suit coat, a button-down shirt will suffice in a business casual setting.

What NOT to wear

Keep in mind that business casual does not mean informal. T-shirts, tank tops, jeans, sundresses, flip flops, and sandals are inappropriate apparel, even in a business casual setting.

Additionally, when you are new to a company or are showing up for an interview, it is better to err on the side of formality. Later, if you find out that the company is more lenient with its dress code, you can always dress down. Making an effort always matters.

Creating a business casual wardrobe

For those who plan to interview in business casual attire, or have recently accepted a job where business casual is the company-wide dress code, it can be helpful to build a basic wardrobe of items that are considered acceptable for this style of dress.

The following can help guide you in designing a professional but casual wardrobe.

Basic business casual attire for women

For women, picking out a few basic pieces to mix and match can make it easy to quickly throw together an outfit for interviews, client meetings, or just another day on the job. Consider the following items when building a business casual wardrobe.

• Dress slacks: A nice pair of dress slacks are always a good pick for the business world. Add some khaki, corduroy, and cotton pants to your wardrobe that can easily be mixed and matched with tops.
• Skirts: For women, conservative-length skirts — knee-length or longer — are an appropriate choice for business casual settings. Pick a skirt that is comfortable and professional. Pencil skirts and A-line skirts are classic options for business casual settings.
• Sweaters: When choosing sweaters for your business casual wardrobe, opt for subdued colors and patterns.
• Knit shirts and blouses: Choose shirts that you can tuck into your slacks or skirts. Stay away from tank tops or low-cut blouses. Silk or rayon blouses in solid colors are ideal.
• Cardigans: A simple cardigan can be paired with a variety of tops to add to the professional but casual tone of your wardrobe.
• Professional dresses: Choose dresses that are conservative in length and feature a simple design. These dresses should not be overly tight. Stay away from sleeveless dresses unless you plan to pair them with a cardigan or jacket.
• Closed-toed shoes: While peep-toed sandals are often approved for business casual settings, it is best to have at least one pair of closed-toed shoes on hand. Choose a brown or black shoe that you can pair with slacks and skirts.

Basic business casual attire for men

For men, putting together a business casual wardrobe only requires a few key pieces. You can mix and match these components, especially if you choose solid colors and traditional patterns.

• Dress slacks: For men, every business casual outfit will begin with a pair of dress slacks. Add khaki, corduroy, and cotton dress pants to your wardrobe to be paired with professional shirts.
• Long-sleeve button-down shirts: Polos are often acceptable in business casual settings, but stick to long-sleeve button-down shirts for interviews. Solid colors will be the easiest to pair with a variety of slacks.
• Sweaters: Another professional option for business casual settings are sweaters. Choose a solid color or subdued pattern.
• Ties: Pairing a tie with your button-down shirt can help add an extra touch of professionalism to any outfit. Solid colored ties are the best choice for business casual settings.
• Belt: When choosing a business casual belt, black or brown leather is ideal.
• Dress shoes: For business casual, opt for loafers, oxford, derby, or dress boots. Black leather and brown leather are best for pairing with a variety of slacks.

Tips for interviewing in business casual settings

If you will be interviewing in a business casual setting, remember that you are creating a first impression when you show up. Even if the person interviewing you is sporting casual attire, you want to appear as professional as possible.

When choosing an outfit for your interview, opt for the following:

• Dress conservatively: For women, a short skirt and peep-toed sandals might be acceptable attire in some business casual settings. And for men, a polo shirt and casual slacks might be on the approved list. However, choose the more conservative options in your closet on the day of your interview. You can always change up your wardrobe later if you find out the rules are lax.
• Choose your most formal pieces: While business casual means you can leave the suit coat at home, select the most formal pieces of clothing you have that still meet business casual guidelines. For example, rather than showing up in a short-sleeved button-down shirt, which might be acceptable after you are employed, choose a button-down shirt with a tie.
• Avoid political or religious statements: Never show up to an interview or your workplace in clothing that features messaging that could be considered offensive to others. Avoid religious symbols and leave the screen tees at home. Business casual does not include messaged items.
• Be subtle with accessories: For women, jewelry should be simple and subdued. Avoid costume or overly showy jewelry. Additional accessories, such as belts, hair clips, and handbags, should match your attire. For men, choose muted tones for accessories, sticking to the basics, such as belts and ties.

Best practices when in doubt

In some cases, you might not be certain what the dress code is for an interview or your first day of work. When in doubt, use the following tips to prevent a dress code faux pas:

1. Ask your recruiter or HR contact. If you are working with a job recruiter, ask them to find out what the dress code is before your interview. If you were invited to an interview via an HR contact or hiring manager, reach back out and ask for the company’s dress code. In most cases, either party will be happy to provide you with this information, and taking the initiative ahead of time can save you from making a mistake.
2. Dress formally. If you cannot find out what the dress code is for a company prior to your interview, err on the side of caution and dress formally. It is far better to show up to an interview dressed more professionally than anyone else in the building than underdressed in a highly professional setting.
3. Choose something comfortable. While you want to be dressed to impress, make sure that the outfit you choose is comfortable. When you pick an outfit you like, you will be less distracted by your own clothing. This can help you focus on the interview rather than on a tight neckline or suffocating jacket.
4. Refresh your memory with HR. Once a company has hired you, make sure you completely understand their dress code policies. This will give you a chance to learn what business casual means specifically to this business. Always adhere to the company’s dress code, asking for clarification when necessary.

Today, many businesses are transitioning away from traditional, formal business wear and opting for business casual attire instead. By keeping your wardrobe professional, you can enjoy the benefits of this relaxed style while avoiding the pitfalls of becoming too informal in your dress.