Business Casual Chic
Wearing a pant suit in a room full of jeans could be totally mortifying. Don't let it happen to you! Smart casual, business casual, all of these casuals, who knows what to wear? After 5 wanted to clear up these common fashion dilemmas by defining business casual and telling you exactly what to wear!
When to dress Business Casual?
Career or Job Fairs
Most employer information sessions
When the flyer or invite says to
When your company makes it standard dress code
Guidelines for Women's Business Casual
Pants/ Skirts- Either can be worn, but they cannot be tight. Fabrics should be crisp and clean. Colors should be solid, nothing too outrageous or vibrant. Navy, black, brown and khaki are always safe choices. Tailored is a must as well.
Skirt Length and Slits- Skirts should come at least to your knees while you are standing. (Sorry ladies save the short skirts for the bar). While seated your thighs should be covered. Slits in the back of your skirt are usually acceptable, but slits on the side for a free leg show are definitely not.
Shirts/Sweaters- Tailored shirts, blouses, sweater sets and knit sweaters are all appropriate. Tank tops or midriff-baring tops are not. Acceptable fabrics would be cotton, silk and blends. However, shimmery or velvet fabrics will not work and save the sequins for the holidays.
Jewelry/Accessories- Be careful with jewelry. Keep it simple. A conservative watch is always a safe bet. Accessories and wild hair should also be kept to a minimum. Feel out the environment first before you get all crazy.
Cosmetics- Makeup should be simple as well. Natural looking, conservative makeup is always appropriate. Opting for none is probably not a good idea unless you truly do look like Heidi Klum. Also, nails should be groomed and neat; bright red acrylics with hottie written in rhinestones might be a little risky.
Shoes- Shoes should be made out of a leather or fabric microfiber. Colors should be solid and standard like brown, black or navy. Pastels, metallics and white colors are not acceptable. Also toes should be covered unless you hear otherwise. And leave the 4-inch heels at home!
Hose- Fortunately, you do not always have to wear these! However, if your skirt is knee length as opposed to calf length you may want to wear them to be safe.
Purses- Purses should be simple, not too wild or out there. Briefcases are also always an option or some kind of business-like bag. The color of your purse/briefcase/bag should also coordinate with your shoes. Canvas, straw or any type of gym bag is definitely not allowed and is going to look weird.
Overall, don't forget the 'Business' in 'Business Casual'-you want to give a professional impression.
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