How to Build a Business Casual Wardrobe for Women
Dressing for success is not always as simple as throwing on a suit. If you're a woman working in a business casual environment, you must strike a balance between professionalism and personal style. With a few key pieces worn in various combinations, building a business casual wardrobe may be easier and more cost-effective than you think. With the right mix, you can exhibit promotion-worthy style that isn't too hard on your pocketbook.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Neutral-colored skirts
- Neutral-colored pants
- Solid-colored blouses
- White blouses
- Neutral-colored sweaters
- Necklaces
- Scarves
- Earrings
- Bracelets
Instructions
-
-
1
Purchase a few bottoms you can mix and match. Skirts are a good choice for women trying to dress business casual; they can be both stylish and office appropriate. Choose skirts that fall just below or above the knee. Capri pants in a dress pant fabric such as linen or wool are appropriate. Shades of grey and beige can combine with several top shades so you can get several different looks from only a few pieces of clothing.
-
2
Purchase blouses that are office appropriate, but demonstrate personal style. Choose neutral colors such as white, but experiment with fabric styles, such as short sleeves or frilly collars and cuffs. Add in some blouses with solid colors and patterns that can complement your neutral skirts and pants. Tailored shirts that cover fully, but tastefully accent curves can add to a flattering look.
-
-
3
Use accessories to change your look. A few different necklaces can change the look of a shirt, in particular when it is combined with a series of skirts or pants. Scarves in different colors can brighten a white shirt-grey skirt combination and give you the opportunity to wear shades appropriate to the season -- for example, bright yellow in the summer and navy in the winter -- without changing the basic elements of the outfit. Belts, earrings and bracelets to match are also options.
-
4
Purchase a few pairs of shoes that work with several looks. A pair of flats will work with capri pants and some skirts. Pumps are a more casual option than high heels. Sandals with straps can also complement a skirt or pant outfit and are appropriate during the summer. Choose adaptable colors such as black or tan, which go well with most top and bottom combinations. If you do have brightly colored shoes, make sure they match your accessories and the remainder of your outfit.
-
5
Keep a few pieces on hand at work for when you need to tone down your look. A charcoal grey sweater can bring seriousness to your style if you have a last-minute client meeting. Swap the ballet flats for pumps or high heels and remove the colorful scarf. Have a stash of classic jewelry, for example faux pearls, to wear in place of chunky beads.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Avoid trendy pieces that you will have difficulty matching. Focus on flattering, but flexible pieces that you can style differently depending on what you wear them with.
References
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
