Dress your best: a guide for men’s business casual fashion

Dress codes can be challenging to decipher, and men are not exempt from being confused by labels used in corporate clothing like business formal, business professional, and business casual. This guide will help you learn those differences and even help you build your professional image, beginning with your clothes.

First impressions matter, especially in business settings; that's why people put a lot of thought and care into dressing up for work. Whether creating a strict dress code for yourself as a remote worker or preparing for face-to-face meetings, these tips will help you dress right for the occasion.

• What is business casual for men?
• Tops for business casual attire
• Bottoms for business casual attire
• More pointers for men’s business casual fashion
• Shoes for business casual attire
• Accessories for business casual attire
• Dressing for specific business casual occasions
• Conclusion
• FAQs

What is business casual for men?

Business casual vs formal attire

Business casual for men adopts a more relaxed approach when it comes to dressing for the office. The look is still professional but includes comfortable pieces to wear at work. The typical casual business attire men wear includes:

• Blazers
• Jackets
• Collared shirts
• Tailored pants
• Leather shoes
• Accessories like watches, belts, and scarves

Compared to business casual wear, men's business formal is more conservative. The look is neat and wrinkle-free, with colours that match. The colour for business formal doesn't necessarily have to be black. Still, the more formal the occasion is, the darker the suit should be. The business formal attire includes:

• Two-piece suit
• Button-down shirt
• Necktie to match the shirt and suit
• Dress shoes
• Accessories like tie clips and cufflinks

Mistakes to avoid when dressing in casual business attire

When selecting business casual outfits, consider your industry and your company's dress code policy. For instance, a finance firm may have a more formal dress code than a creative agency. By dressing appropriately, you can create a positive image and feel confident and comfortable in your attire.

Even if business casual wear is more laid-back, you must still look polished. Refrain from wearing anything see-through, stained, wrinkled or tattered. Your clothes must not have clashing patterns–or loud colours–and avoid anything too tight or too loose.

Tops for business casual attire

A business casual shirt is the same top you’d wear with a three-piece suit and tie but used less formally. The fabric and the pattern are two things that will make your outfit appropriate for the business casual dress code.

Fabrics like linen, oxfords, and twill create a relaxed but polished look. They are comfortable to wear and can be easily paired with chinos or slacks. Since ties are omitted from this dress code, prints like checks, plaids, and understated patterns can be used.

Shirts suitable for men's business casual outfits

Collared shirts are the most common type worn for business casual attire. These can include:

• Button-down shirts
• Polo shirts
• Dress shirts

Avoid the following tops if you’re aiming for a business casual outfit:

• Hoodies
• Sleeveless or tank tops
• Graphic tees
• Loud patterns

Choosing the right shirt for business casual attire

Since collared shirts are the staple for men’s business casual outfits, there are three things to consider when choosing the right collared shirts. Look out for the fit of the shirt, the colour, and the actual shape of the collar itself.

• Fit.Your shirt has the proper fit if it is effortless to button. A shirt is too tight if the buttons pull around the ribcage. If it's too loose, excess cloth will be seen around the chest and waist.
• Colour.Whenever possible, stick to neutral hues like tan, grey, black, navy, white, brown, and beige. Patterns are okay as long as they are simple and inconspicuous.
• The shape of the collar.Just like how you’d choose glasses that fit your face shape, shirt collars enhance your facial features. Consider the collar shape when you pick your next Casual Friday outfit.

Examples of appropriate shirt combinations for different occasions

Different occasions call for specific clothing combinations. Consider the following situations:

• Job interview.Wear a collared shirt over chinos and pair the outfit with a casual blazer in a neutral tone. Match these with socks in the same shade as your pants and dress shoes.
• Client meeting.A polo shirt and slacks in a neutral colour will look sharp when complemented by a belt and loafers in the same neutral tone. Put on a well-cut blazer for a more polished look.
• Casual Friday.Pair a button-down shirt with dark denim in a conservative cut. Complete the look with leather trainers or loafers for an outfit that says you’re ready for the weekend.

To tuck or not to tuck, that is the question

Aside from the hem of your shirt, occasions will also dictate if your shirt needs to be tucked to comply with a business casual attire dress code.

• Straight hem.If your shirt has a straight hem, like a polo shirt, for instance, you need to leave this shirt untucked.
• Curved hem.Most button-down shirts have curved hems, which is why they’re always tucked in. This is how this particular shirt is designed to be worn.

Whether you are sporting a jacket or have a sweater on, once you've put on an outer layer, you should always tuck your shirt in during events. This will make you look neat and presentable.

Bottoms for business casual attire

When it comes to casual business attire for men, it's also important to choose pants or trousers that are comfortable, stylish, and professional.

Types of trousers suitable for business casual attire

Here are some trouser styles that are suitable for your business casual attire:

• Khakis or chinos
• Classic mid-rise pants
• Straight-cut pants
• Corduroys

Avoid the following:

• Shorts
• Baggy or tight-fitting pants
• Torn or distressed jeans
• Loud colours
• Animal prints

How to choose the right pants for men's business casual outfits

A polished and put-together business casual attire should have pants that have a good fit, appropriate style, and the right material.

• Measurements.The right pants size will fit comfortably without the need to wear a belt. To help you find a good one, make sure to take your waist as well as your inseam measurement. For your waist measurement, always round up to the nearest whole number. For the inseam, add a quarter inch to allow for shrinkage.
• Style.For business casual attire, you can choose between a button or zipper fly. Other considerations would be having pleated or plain-front trousers, the number of pockets, and whether you will choose slim, die, or straight-cut style.
• Material.When deciding on the material of your pants, you need to consider your budget and your personal preference. For example, polyester blends are easier to care for and are affordable while wool or rayon will require dry cleaning.

Dress pants and their combinations: Pairing options for a business casual style

Chinos look great with a wide range of footwear. Consider wearing them with sneakers or boat shoes for a more relaxed appearance, or with dressy shoes like loafers or oxfords for a more elegant appearance.

Dress pants are generally paired with dress shoes like loafers and classic oxfords. It's better to stay away from sneakers and other too-casual footwear.

Corduroy pants are a terrific alternative for the colder months. Try wearing them with boots or sneakers for a comfortable look.

Khakis can be worn with various shoes and are similar to chinos. You can match them with sneakers or boat shoes if you’re going for casual. Wear them with dressy shoes like oxfords or loafers for a more formal appearance.

More pointers for men’s business casual fashion

There are three things to think about when you are putting together your business casual attire: the colour, cut, and how you combine your pieces will change the range of a formal business to a casual outfit.

Colour

Choose lighter shades for a relaxed business casual look, such as light blue or light grey. Be cautious not to match the colour of your jacket and trousers.

For trousers, there are options you can add to black and navy blue, colours you can dress up or down depending on the dress code. Business casual outfits will let you get away with khaki, grey, light blue, brown, beige, or white. The cut of both your top and your bottoms will add to the business casual look.

Cut

The challenge with choosing tops for men’s business casual attire is creating balance. The shirt or jacket you choose needs to be comfortable and look business-like at the same time.

If you’re looking for a jacket to use for your business casual attire, pick a blazer or a sport coat. Blazers are usually single-breasted, and their metal buttons complete their more casual look. A sport coat is the most casual option for a business jacket, and it's also single-breasted. The blazer and the sport coat need to hang well on your shoulders and have a comfortable fit on your torso to make it look polished.

When selecting a button-down shirt, pick a top with a classic cut. This works well for all body types and will ensure you get the fit that will make you look professional. Since you won’t need a tie for the business casual look, a classic fit will give you that collar that will wrap your neckline nicely on its own.

The cut of your bottoms will make a lot of difference to your business casual look. Cropped pants or long trousers with hems that you can fold with a cuff will fit this dress code. Avoid cuts that are extreme, like baggy or tight, since these are too trendy for the workplace.

Shoes for business casual attire

Types of shoes suitable for business casual attire

There are many considerations when it comes to wearing business casual shoes for men. Here are the more common shoes worn for this dress code:

• Loafers
• Oxfords
• Derby shoes
• Chelsea boots
• Leather or canvas trainers

Do not wear the following:

• Flip-flops
• Sandals
• Tattered trainers
• Chunky-soled shoes

Choosing the right shoes for business casual attire

Leather lace-up shoes are the default footwear for professional settings, but slip ons are acceptable for business casual wear. When choosing your shoes, think about the shape of the toe, the height of the heel, and the colour of the leather.

• Toe.Dress shoes can be square-toed or narrow and pointed. While both options are good for different styles of pants, look for one that’s a good mix of the square and the pointed toe to make your shoes match more outfits.
• Heel.The rule of thumb when it comes to heels for men’s business casual attire is to choose ones that are no more than an inch high. Flat shoes are acceptable for more casual wear but are not advisable for business casual attire.
• Colour.A pair of black shoes will be the most versatile pair of dress shoes you will own but invest in a second pair of brown shoes. While black shoes will go with any colour of your outfit, a pair of brown shoes will go better with clothes that are tan, camel, or brown.

Guidelines for maintaining shoes in good condition

Dress shoes are a real investment, and here are some tips on maintaining business casual shoes :

• Keep your shoes clean
• Use a material-specific shampoo when cleaning shoes
• Apply a leather conditioner to preserve the leather
• Store your shoes properly
• Do not use plastic bags or containers to keep them

Accessories for business casual attire

Unnecessary accessories make you look unprofessional while the right amount can enhance your appearance. Here are a few examples of accessories that you can use, specifically for business casual outfits for work:

• Watches
• Bracelets
• Rings
• Belts
• Scarves
• Socks
• Sunglasses
• Briefcases

Do not wear the following, since they are more appropriate for formal wear:

• Cufflinks
• Tie clips
• Pocket squares

Choosing the right accessories for business casual attire

If you’ve decided to accessorise your business clothes, consider the occasion, the overall look, and your personal style.

• Occasion.Make sure your accessories match the occasion so that they do not overpower your outfit or give an unprofessional impression to those around you.
• Overall look.The goal is to select carefully chosen accessories that complement but do not overshadow the outfit. Choose accessories that will complement the colours and textures of your outfit and not clash with them.
• Personal style.Accessories are meant to add character and personal style to your attire. Just remember to abide by your company’s dress code even as you inject personality into your look.

Examples of appropriate accessory combinations for different occasions

• Job interview.To match your business casual outfit, bring a leather briefcase to store your interview essentials while completing your look. For shoes, choose oxfords and wear these with socks that match your slacks.
• Company offsite.Good for building relationships with colleagues, these events can run the gamut from alfresco activities to cocktails at the hotel bar. Bring sunglasses for the outdoors and wear leather or canvas trainers to help you move around comfortably.
• Business dinner.Whether dining with clients, your superiors, or both, wear accessories that are flexible enough to be used from daytime to dinner. A watch with a leather strap that complements your belt is a combination that’s functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Guidelines for avoiding over-accessorising

When choosing how to use accessories, stay within your company’s dress code. Keep in mind that accessories are meant to enhance your look and not distract from it.

Over-accessorising can make an outfit look busy. Select items that complement one another to create a coordinated look. Instead of matching all of your accessories, choose complementary items. To minimise competing patterns, keep the remainder of your outfit simple and neutral if you're wearing a striking or patterned accessory.

For example, a blue fabric belt will go well with a plain neutral coloured top. Your white leather sneakers can complement your khaki chinos. Paisley socks peeking out of your corduroys will also make your business casual attire interesting.

Dressing for specific business casual occasions

It can be tricky to strike a good balance between looking professional and feeling comfortable when required to dress in business casual attire. Here are some tips to help you navigate different occasions.

• Job Interview.Find out about the company dress code policy to dress appropriately and make a good impression during your job interview.
• Business meeting.Consider the time and location of the business meeting to be able to put together a good business casual outfit.
• Business trip.Choose pieces that can be used for at least two different sets of clothes. A blazer, for example, can be worn with a button-down shirt and dress pants to a business meeting or with a t-shirt and jeans to a more informal activity.
• Networking event.In-person events are back, which will make networking events popular again. Wear pants that fit well, preferably one with pockets where you can keep your business cards. You can also use a dress shirt with a breast pocket for this reason. Keep a sports jacket or blazer handy in case you need to dress up your outfit.

Tips for nailing business casual attire

Choosing a business casual outfit can be a little tricky, but with constant practise, it gets easier. Here are a few things to remember.

• Paying attention to fit and proportion.A good fit is essential for men's business casual outfits. Business clothes men wear that are too big or too little might detract from the overall appearance. Your goal is a fit that flatters your body type while giving you that polished and professional look.
• Adding a personal touch to business casual attire.Business casual doesn't have to be boring. Adding a personal touch, like a vintage watch or a leather-trimmed tote, will help you stand out while remaining professional.
• Experimenting with different combinations and styles.Feel free to try new combinations and styles to see what works best. Experimenting helps you develop a style that shows both your distinct personality and professionalism.
• Staying up-to-date with fashion trends.Magazines, online fashion journals, and social media are excellent sources for the latest trends in fashion. While you don't have to be an expert, being up-to-date on what's hip can help your overall professional aesthetic.
• Maintaining good hygiene and grooming.Regardless of the dress code, proper hygiene and grooming are required in any professional situation. This includes keeping your hair, beard, and moustache tidy and trimmed, your nails clean and well-maintained, and your clothes clean and wrinkle-free.

Conclusion

We've covered many factors that will help you pick the right business casual clothes, such as the purpose and the occasion. But the one more important thing to note is you and how you carry yourself in different social spaces.

The good thing about business casual attire is that it allows for flexibility and creativity in your outfit choices. Still, it's important to remember that every workplace and event may have different standards. Feel free to try different things to find what works best for you, while being mindful of the overall image you are presenting.

Remember, your outfit can significantly impact how others perceive you, so it's worth taking the time to get it right. Ultimately, the key is to feel confident and comfortable in your clothes, which will shine through in how you present yourself.

FAQs

1. What is the main difference between business casual and formal attire?
   ⁠The primary difference between business casual and formal attire is the level of formality required for the occasion.
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2. Can I wear jeans for business casual dress code?
   ⁠Jeans may be permitted in some business casual dress requirements, but it’s always a good idea to check with your employer first.
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3. Are trainers appropriate for business casual attire?
   ⁠Sneakers can be appropriate for business casual attire, but it depends on the culture of your workplace. If you are permitted to use them, opt for leather or canvas trainers with minimal design. Make sure they are clean and spotless when you wear them.
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4. Can I wear a blazer with business casual attire?
   ⁠Yes, a blazer can be an excellent addition to a business casual ensemble. A tweed blazer can make a business casual outfit look more polished.
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5. Is it necessary to wear a tie in business casual attire?
   ⁠A tie is usually optional for a business casual outfit. In place of a tie, you can use a collared shirt with a small pattern like checks or gingham, and wear a blazer to complete the look.