About Business Casual Dress

Business casual can be a term that is confusing to most people. How professional and how casual can one go? It depends on the actual place of business and its standards, but this article can give a good general idea of what business casual is.

Identification

Business casual is a more relaxed version of professional attire. Full suits and neckties are not necessary. Jeans are accepted by some places with a business casual dress code, as long as they are neat, ironed and tailored. Comfortable semi-casual dress shirts, golf shirts and blouses are acceptable, as are sweaters and tailored shorts (just not too short). Most offices have a business casual dress code, which looks relaxed and comfortable but neat, clean and professional.

Function

The function of business casual is to look professional and put-together, but to also be relaxed and comfortable in the workplace. This allows for employees to be comfortable in their work environment while also looking and feeling professional and efficient. This is especially important for a corporate environment in which many employees may put in long hours and hold many meetings.

Types

Business casual can mean more "business" for one place of employment, while at another place of employment it may mean more "casual." For example, business casual usually does not accept T-shirts, unless covered by a blazer or sweater, but some places may accept T-shirts as business casual. Some places accept open-toe shoes, while the traditional standard of business casual does not. It is best to be specific and find out what is and what isn't acceptable at any place of business.

Benefits

The benefits of a business casual dress code is the duality of being comfortable and relaxed along with looking put-together and professional. Another benefit is that it is not as expensive as a very high-powered professional attire of suits, ties and dress shoes. It is quite affordable, yet very impressive and professional. Business casual is also very versatile as far as the environments outside of the office. One can go to the grocery store, a PTA meeting, church, or to a friend's house straight after work and not look out of place.

Expert Insight

It is best to look as professional as possible, even with a business casual dress code. Most places of employment have a casual Friday, in which it is the best time to wear some of your more casual clothes that still are within the business casual dress code. Many people wear Hawaiian shirts with jeans on a business casual Friday, which is generally accepted and quite popular and common.

Resources

• Wikipedia definition of Business Casual