What Is Appropriate Casual Business Attire?
Business casual dress code is one of the most misunderstood terms you'll find in an office. Everyone interprets appropriate business casual attire to be something different, which can be confusing and frustrating. Business casual dress is actually one level lower than formal business attire, which consists of suits and ties. However, very few people dress appropriately for a business casual work environment.
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Men's Shirts
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Appropriate business casual attire for men involves a nice shirt with no tie. A collared, button-down shirt, tucked in, is the safest way to dress; however, depending on your office, you may be able to wear a dressy polo shirt as well. Never wear novelty shirts with writing or messages on them, as this is inappropriate for the workplace.
Men's Pants
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Men should wear dress slacks or khaki pants to meet a business casual dress code. Your pants should always be neat and wrinkle free. Never wear jeans or shorts to work, unless given permission by the company.
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Women's Shirts
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Women should wear dressy blouses and sweaters to dress business casual. Never wear T-shirts, sleeveless shirts or strapless shirts, and make sure your shirts are always modest. Again, novelty shirts with writing or advertisements are inappropriate.
Women's Dresses and Bottoms
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Casual dresses and skirts are permitted in a business casual dress code. Dresses and skirts should be business like, clean cut and not overly revealing. Never wear anything that is cut several inches above the knee. Wear actual business slacks, not tight-fitting spandex pants or jeans.
Shoes
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Shoes vary by company; some require you to wear closed-toed shoes, while others allow sandals in warm weather. If sandals are permitted, wear nice dress sandals, and never wear flip-flops or sandals you would wear to the beach.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Andrew Hitchcock
