Men´s Business Casual Attire- Dress Code Explained

What is Business-Casual Dress for Men?

Does business-casual allow jeans?  Oh, no!  It does not.  You may think it does, but you must be confused.  Most men don’t understand what is meant by “business-casual”.

You may want to be as casual as you think is allowable.  However, there really is no leeway.  A certain standard is expected if the dress code is business casual attire for an office or event.  The problem is that “business-casual” has a different definition from office to office.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Business Casual

If a guy is dressing for business, his look should be one appropriate for business purposes.  He should project an image that is professional and at the same time enjoy attire that is more casual.  He should not only appear groomed, but he should also give a neat appearance.

The way to achieve this look is to dress down a business outfit instead of dressing up a casual outfit.  You’re not going to a bar or barbeque.  Think of it this way: Business casual is dressing a suit outfit down.

White collar workers do not usually dress in formal attire.  Actually, less than 9 percent do. 

 However, there are times when a guy would dress conservatively.  For instance, a job interview or professions such as engineering or finance would require a more formal look including dark suits, button down, starched shirts, traditionalist ties and dark socks and leather shoes.  You should also make sure you are properly groomed, and, by all means, remove earrings and neatly groom facial hair.  Clothes should be wrinkle free and clean.  Always go with the choice of a shirt with a collar.  If you are in doubt about the dress code of a company, go with the look that is more formal.

Are you still confused?  If so, maybe the following guidelines will help.

Business Casual Guidelines

For the best way to judge for yourself, visit the office and take a look around.  How is everyone dressed?  This is especially important if you've never been there before.  If you’re not sure of exactly how they will expect you to dress in this office, it is better to beoverdressed than underdressed.  Being overdressed is a sure way to look professional.

·       First of all, just as with the formal look, clothes must be clean and free of wrinkles.

·       Business casual means no jeans, T—shirts and sneakers.  These are simply too casual for business casual.

·       Every outfit includes a shirt of some kind.  For business casual, long-sleeved dress shirts are the most appropriate.  It’s a good idea to avoid polo shirts since they will certainly be considered too casual.  An Oxford, white, pastel, or subtle patterned like pinstripes or gingham shirts are best.  Leave the top one or two buttons open, but never more than two.  If you’re wearing a tie, you, of course, would button the buttons.  By the way, another good idea is to keep a tie in your desk drawer.   This allows you to button up and put the tie on for an unexpected, last minute meeting. Horrors!  Don’t forget to tuck your shirt in.