Basic Business Attire Facts

Basic business attire should be conservative but stylish, and the attire should be clean and well-pressed. Some places of employment allow employees to wear more casual styles, but they still need to look professional.

Men's Clothing

In general, men wear dress shirts in conservative colors such as white, blue and khaki. You can sometimes wear a tie and dress pants with basic black or brown dress shoes, or a full suit. You should not wear tennis shoes, jeans, sandals or T-shirts in a business setting.

Women's Clothing

Women often wear nice dress shirts and skirts or a business-like dress with stockings and dress shoes. Your shirt colors can be similar to men's, and you could wear other colors such as yellow, pink or purple. You should avoid excessive jewelry, extremely short skirts and dresses, and outlandish hairstyles.

Business Casual

In situations where the business casual look is permitted, men can wear casual polo shirts with khaki pants. Women can wear navy or khaki pants with casual button-down shirts and black or brown loafers.

Buying Business Attire

Buying business attire doesn't have to be expensive. Many stores sell business-appropriate clothing at affordable prices. Also, look for weekly sales and clearance items.

Considerations

Wearing good business attire boosts your self-confidence, and it shows that you care about the image you present to your employer and customers.

References

• Auburn University: Business Casual Guidelines
• University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension: Business Dress for Women