Wearing Business Casual Should Still Mean Wearing Style
Too often, the term “business casual” has come to mean wearing a pair of jeans to work. Really, a business casual day for men just means a break from the traditional suit/white dress shirt/tie/highly polished shoes combination. It does NOT represent an opportunity to dress on the grungy side. Really, wearing business casual should still mean wearing style since how you look affects not only your work performance but also how your clients judge you. Here are some of the basics of truly effective “business casual.”
Shirts
Button-down styles are always a safe bet; polo shirts are simply too casual. Period. Polos are acceptable for the company bowling party or picnic but that’s about it. A high quality button-down shirt may be worn with or without a sport jacket and will always maintain a slightly dressy edge to it. Choose brands that have a tailored fit and that come in a wide range of colors and weather-appropriate fabrics.
Trousers
Jeans are acceptable if they are high-end and tailored properly. I like Hiltl brand jeans because they never look sloppy. Hiltl also makes chinos, wool slacks, and a variety of other styles to help you look good no matter the circumstance. Always make sure you wear your slacks pressed, a crease is optional. Pair the slacks with a leather belt and you will always look professional. The colors and fabrics you choose should match the time of year, of course.
Shoes
Save the sneakers for the tennis or basketball court: they never look good at work. Loafers are always a safe choice and you should keep a pair in both black and brown. Shoes with composite soles also work in business casual settings and are extremely comfortable to boot.
You should aim for looking stylish, even on business casual days. You never know whom you might want or need to impress.