What Is Business Casual?
 

“Business casual” as a dress code has been around since the 1970s but there is still much confusion about what this really means. In fact, there’s probably more confusion today than when the concept became popular as our society has become more liberal because of more relaxed industries - Internet-based businesses have become major employers and solidified their economic clout. Just as the hippie generation used denim jeans as a symbol of rebellion till it evolved into a staple in every wardrobe, so will today’s young adults – both yuppies and blue collar – re-define the acceptable dress code in the workplace. For those of us who are used to the traditional definition of “office wear”, and for those newly entering a professional organization, it is a daunting task trying to stock your wardrobe for work.  Dressing down has become wardrobe suicide for many of the working community.

Some people have taken it to golf wear of khakis and polo shirts or capris and a basic tee.  Women appear to have mangled this new dress direction more so than their male counterparts and have displayed continuous faux pas mainly because they generally have a vast selection of clothing and deciding appropriateness is somewhat off-putting.  For the male population it’s been hooray for getting away from wearing a tie and jacket/coat to a simple dress shirt, dress pant and the occasional tie for meetings.   In an effort to help with this transition let’s take it step by step:

• Business Casual or Dressy Casual is defined as mixing and matching of separates.  Wear a top with pants/skirt, eliminating the jacket that might have been the other half of the skirt or pants.  This provides a dress-down effect and does not formalize your business casual wardrobe.  If you must wear capris Monday through Thursday, dress it up with a beautifully pressed button down shirt or a blouse that is silk, chiffon or a polyester blend.  You want to present an appearance that is polished or flowing/flouncy.

• Save the khakis/polos and jeans/tees for casual Friday.  Leave the tennis/athletic shoes completely out of the equation unless it is allowed per your company's dress guidelines, as many companies do not approve tennis/athletic shoes on Fridays even though jeans are allowed.
  
• Clothing should be neat, color coordinated and give the impression that although you are not wearing a suit, you are aware that you are representing your company and is ready to do business at the drop of a hat; you are aware that you could be called into a meeting with guests who are professionally attired.  Being alert on this level gives you an edge over other employees who may have completely misinterpreted or disregarded the Business Casual dress concept.

 Mauva Gacitua & Lucy Wilson