What is the Business Casual Style?

5 September, 2020

Figuring out the business-casual style can be a little daunting in today’s work environment. This type of dress code can vary so much depending on the type of company you work for, the kind of work you do daily and, of course, where you live! London would probably require something completely different than, let say, Barcelona; being prepared for the weather always influences our style.

But more than that, business casual is the answer to today’s reality. It’s a practical approach to living in today’s multi-faceted society, with fewer barriers and a less strict dress code.

For this reason, office clothing in today’s world needs to be practical, comfortable without sacrificinig elegance and style. A good business casual style can make or break your career, so read up on these essential tips!
 

business casual inspiration

 

Factors that influence the business-casual style:

  • Functionality
  • Versatility
  • Projection

How to ace your business casual look

Accessories:

Change up your shoes! Go for sporty styles for a less formal look, if your job is in the creative industries or a startup. If you need to look formal, opt for loafers, brogues, pumps, ballerinas or classic black, low to mid-heel leather booties.

The different touch:

Try a blouse with a lively print, sheer fabric on the sleeves, or a total look in one colour.

Comfort:

  • Garments with an adjustable fit or that suit your working posture. Avoid stiff trousers or high-waisted garments.
  • Comfortable footwear if you are mostly standing at work.
  • Resistant fabrics
  • Garments that don’t wrinkle easily, materials that allow your skin to breathe.
  • Dressing with layers may be the best option.

Hair, makeup, manicure to enhance your casual business look.

Don’t forget your basics

  • Black and white cotton t-shirts
  • Denim shirt, denim skirt
  • Jeans
  • Lingerie top.

Build a capsule business casual wardrobe using a combination of timeless basics and trendy garments. This can include:
 

capsule wardrobe business casual style

 

  1. Leather garments: pencil skirt, culotte trousers, blazer, biker jacket, maxi boots.
  2. Asymmetrical garments in the form of basic dresses.
  3. Skirts: pleated, satin, flared. Match them with blazers, blouses and sporty tops.
  4. Slacks. Try long culottes or slightly flared trousers. Choose the ones that best suit your body type.
  5. Skinny trousers: waxed, with pockets, light, dark, grey and denim. Pair them up with a slightly long blazer.
  6. Knitted garments: dresses, V-neck jumpers, cardigans, etc. Elegant and comfortable.
  7. Flowy tops like a white or blue cotton shirt that borrows from the boys or a feminine blouse with a bow. Try smooth fabrics like satin and chiffon.
  8. Jackets: Chanel style, blazers, thin bomber jackets and even denim jackets. It’s a key piece to elevate your casual business look.
  9. All in one: for example dresses and jumpsuits.
  10. Outerwear: A camel-coloured tailored coat, a black down jacket and an elegant raincoat.

How to wear the business-casual style this fall-winter 2020-2021

We suggest 5 fall-winter trends to try with your business-casual looks this fall.

Baroque:

business casual style

 
Textures, brocades, metallics, satin or translucent fabrics.
Important: use in small doses.

Bows:

 

bows business casual style

 
Especially on tops like shirts, for example. If you are more conservative, try hair accessories or scarves.
Important: wear flowy fabrics without adding volume.

Blazer:

 

blazer business casual style

 
Try squared shoulders.
Long, landing below the hip.
Double-breasted with a retro touch.
Important: try colours, houndstooth print and leather effect.
Checks: there is no winter without them.
Try tartans for your bottom half like skirts, for instance.

What is the Business Casual Style?

Business casual style is the answer to today’s reality. It’s a practical approach to living in today’s multi-faceted society, with fewer barriers and a less strict dress code.

How to ace your business casual look

Change up your shoes! Go for sporty styles for a less formal look.
Try a blouse with a lively print, sheer fabric on the sleeves, or a total look in one colour.
Garments with an adjustable fit.
Garments that don’t wrinkle easily, materials that allow your skin to breathe.

Garments for a business casual style

Leather garments, asymmetrical garments, skirts, skinny trousers, blazers, dresses and jumpsuits.