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Cleavage: an office no-no. Image Credit: Jyn Meyer/sxc.huBusiness casual is a term used by many employers to describe a dress code which allows a certain degree of flexibility from traditional office wear. It's important to check with your human resources department to ensure that you fully understand your company's definition of business casual. While each employer defines the term with her own twist on it, there are some basic universal guidelines that are common with most. For example, women should be appropriately modest in their business casual wear. That is, don't reveal too much cleavage or show your belly, back or undergarments. Clothes should always be laundered and wrinkle free. You shouldn't wear t-shirts in most cases, especially those with pictures or words on them. -
A pant suit can be the basis for an entire wardrobe. Image Credit: New York & CompanyAs you put together your business casual wardrobe, consider materials like silk and cotton. You can also look for wool, linen, twill, khaki, or corduroy. A basic working business casual wardrobe might consist of a few tailored blouses, sweater sets, several pairs of slacks, and a couple of skirts. Skirts should be no shorter than just above the knee. Many women also like to have a suit or coordinating business separates (jackets, skirts and slacks). A daytime pants suit can be the basis for an entire week of looks. For example, one could wear both pieces of the suit together and change the look simply by changing the shell or blouse worn under the jacket. Alternatively, one could wear the jacket with a casual blouse and dark jeans with a coordinating boot for a classy casual Friday outfit. Be sure to buy the best quality you can for your pants suit and coordinating skirt. New York & Company, for example, offers a great pants suit line. -
Try a brightly colored pattern under a solid jacket. Image Credit: New York & CompanyThe most important thing for women to remember in choosing business casual wear is that fit counts. Buying items that are too big can make your body appear dumpy, regardless of your actual size. That can make you appear sloppy. This is bad news if you're gunning for that promotion. Clothing that is too tight or revealing is simply unprofessional and inappropriate for work. Keep loud patterns to a minimum. Try to build your outfit around neutral pieces. -
Keep nails clean and properly manicured. Image Credit: static.orient-express.comBusiness casual attire goes beyond actual clothing. Other factors are equally important. For example, women should be clean and appropriately groomed. If hair is dyed, it should be a color that appears natural. Avoid unnatural colors like blue, green, or pink in your hair. Piercings, with the exception of ears, should be removed for the office. Jewelry must be tasteful and classy. Nails should be short and clean, or properly manicured with neutral polish. Chipped or peeling polish is unacceptable. Perfumes should be used sparingly, and should not be overpowering. -
Khakis are great for casual Friday. Image Credit: New York & CompanyMany people think "casual Friday" is a chance to wear their favorite old sweats and flip flops. In reality, these things are never acceptable in a professional environment. While most companies with a casual day policy allow jeans, they should never be ripped or stained. Instead, be sure they fit properly (not too tight or too loose). They should also be clean and wrinkle free. Wear a stylish blouse, sweater or a neatly pressed button down shirt with it. This is also the day to wear the company polo shirts or sweaters. Khakis are also appropriate. Above all, keep it clean and professional. That's true even on casual day.
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