How to Dress in a Business Casual Environment

Business casual is increasingly becoming the standard for dress in the workplace. This is a very general term that different companies apply to varying degrees. In order to dress for success, you can follow these steps to be sure that you meet the standards in your company. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Understand the rules within your company. Know your dress-code policy. Familiarize yourself with any rules and guidelines related to dress generally provided in your HR paperwork. If you're unsure ask either your boss or the HR Department.
2. Start with your overall appearance. Hair should be neat and clean, and men's facial hair should either be trimmed or completely absent depending on what your policy advises.
3. Trim nails and keep them clean. Maintain good personal hygiene. When wearing perfume or cologne, apply sparingly. Women should not wear dramatic makeup or nail polish and instead should opt for a minimal more natural look.
4. Wear pants that are pressed well and not overly tight or baggy. Dark colors such as gray, black or brown and khakis are the most common selections. Women can wear skirts although they should come to the knee or just slightly above when standing and not contain a high slit. Jeans are generally unacceptable although many companies do allow this on Fridays.
5. Choose a well-pressed shirt that fits well. Long sleeves work best although short sleeves are permissible. Women should avoid spaghetti straps or low cut blouses that reveal too much. Fabric can be cotton, silk or anything else that appears clean and dressy although overly-glittered or most velvets should be avoided.
6. Select shoes that are leather or fabric instead of athletic shoes or flip flops. Women can wear heels that are not excessively high–preferably no more than 2 inches.
7. Accessorize with just a few pieces of jewelry or a watch. Be conservative with the style and amount of jewelry.

Tips & Warnings

• Some companies require women to wear hose when wearing a skirt so be sure to check your company's guidelines.
• Ties are not necessary in a business casual environment on a regular basis, however, they are acceptable for men to wear if you choose to do so. It can always be removed later if you feel uncomfortable because no one else is wearing one.
• Do not wear revealing or tattered clothing. Additionally lingerie should not be visible under clothing.

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