Office Look : The Art Of Dressing Stylish Business To Casual For Women

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By Sophia AvaYEET MAGAZINE | Updated 0439 GMT (1239 HKT) May 12, 2022

Business Casual for Women: The Definitive Guide to Looking Stylish at Work

Contents

• What is Business Casual for Women?
• The basics of business casual wear for women
• Business casual outfits for women: these are just what you need to effortlessly look refined at work
• Business casual for plus size women
• Style tips: business casual for women do's and don'ts
• Casual Dress for Women: Frequently Asked Questions

Appearances matter. From corner office job interviews to networking events, the casual dress code is a great way to dress for success .

Now we know that finding the right balance between business and casual styles can be tricky territory - With no black and white rules to follow, business casual attire is one of the most mixed-signal dress codes. confusing that are.

Trying to decipher what constitutes a casual activity for women can be overwhelming in modern work environments. A casual dress code can indeed vary depending on the region of the world you live in, the industry and company you work for, your profession, your career level and even the season.

Where one company adopts the business casual dress code with a more casual standard (t-shirts and jeans allowed), another would move more towards a more formal look, expecting nothing less than a dressy blazer and jeans. shiny shoes.

Either way, your wives' casual outfits should always be clean, ironed, and snug (more dos and don'ts below).

Still, you've probably found yourself at one point or another wondering what to wear to work today .

Do not worry. If you read this style guide, you'll have a better understanding of what business-casual really means and get specific examples of stylish nine-to-five looks. There is something for all sartorial tastes.

So if you're ready to master the business casual look and make your Monday-Friday mornings a breeze, read on.

What is Business Casual for Women?

Simply put: Business casual is a semi-formal business dress code typically found in modern offices. While the term may vary across companies and cultures, business casual has traditionally referred to a neat, office-appropriate look that appears smart but is still somewhat comfortable and relaxed rather than overly formal.

Not too Business; not too casual, business casual is a delicate balance. The easiest way to think of business casual dress code is a hybrid of business and casual clothing.

Business casual is related to or denoting a style of clothing that is less formal than traditional work clothes, but which is still intended to give a professional and professional impression.- Oxford Dictionary

Note that business casual is different from smart casual. While business casual has traditionally included classic business basics, smart casual outfits typically combine business attire with trendy clothing.

Examples of casual business women

Wearing a full suit is too formal. For business casual, this is more like the outfits you would wear when meeting your best customer for lunch.

When planning the perfect business casual wardrobe, consider a professional yet deconstructed wardrobe. In other words, try to mix tailored and traditional basics like dress pants, khakis, tailored blouses and blazers with more casual and edgy pieces. The business casual look should still make you feel stylish and confident, but shouldn't frown on your next meeting.

Just as the name suggests, remember that business casual is business first and business casual second. So be sure to consult your employee handbook for clarity on your business dress code before shopping.

The basics of business casual wear for women

Depending on the season, business casual options for women usually vary quite a bit.

Winter outfits for business casual women

For casual fall and winter outfits, be sure to opt for thicker fabrics and warm styles, such as long-sleeved and knit sweaters, boots, and sock slippers. Business casual for cold weather also requires layers.

A turtleneck (in cashmere) is the ultimate and versatile starting point for your casual 9-5 winter look, working with everything from slacks to midi skirts and beyond.

Pro style tip: belt a jacket to accentuate your waist and avoid bulky overlays.

WOSALBA

Basic black turtle neck buy now

JENNIE LIU

100% pure cashmere turtleneck sweater buy now

Cropped tweed pants and a long coat are also essentials in your effortless business casual chic capsule wardrobe.

For an on-trend touch, also invest in a leather midi skirt and white pants.

A winter wardrobe staple, tights are one of the easiest ways to take your favorite dresses and skirts through the colder months without losing a sense of style. Make sure you have timeless and versatile black tights in stock in sheer opaque or super opaque. For a bolder look, add colorful and printed versions (which are coming back on the radar as a fashion statement) to your winter wardrobe.

Pro Style Tips: Mix fabrics and textures to bring out any winter look.

Casual summer outfits for business women

The warmer months usually introduce a refreshing color palette and light, breathable fabrics (like cotton, linen, and silk) into your wardrobe.

During the summer, the challenge when choosing business casual outfits is finding the right balance between work and the weather.

While dresses and skirts are fabulous for keeping your legs cool, avoid styles that are too tight and too tight when the temperatures rise.

Business casual outfits for women: these are just what you need to effortlessly look refined at work

The first order of business each morning is deciding what to wear to work.

Business casual is a very versatile dress code. An excellent assortment of basics is the basis of your business casual wardrobe.

To help you get your work wardrobe back on track, we've compiled all the business casual essentials you need nine-to-five style here, according to fashion experts.

Mix and match the dressier pieces for a more polished look, or add more casual pieces for a more casual vibe.

Business casual shoes

Put your best foot forward with stylish casual shoes that will effortlessly take you from the workplace to happy hour.

There are a ton of fantastic casual shoe options to achieve a casual look. From flats that aren't lacking in the style department (like loafers, brogues, and ballet shoes) to heels that mean business (like comfy kitten and block styles and boots).

If you were to buy yourself just one pair of office shoes, make a chic pair of black or nude leather pointy heels. These classic women's casual shoes can literally be worn with anything and everything in your work wardrobe. And luckily, you can still achieve a killer look with modestly sized pumps (sorry, stilettos).
If you're comfortable ditching heels at work, opt for a comfy pair of flats like a point-toe d'Orsay or menswear-inspired brogues, brogues and loafers. These flats are just a few of our favorite shoes for walking around the office all day or for commuters going from the subway to the office and back home.

Fluffy ankle boots or knee-high boots without too much embellishment are a casual business staple in the colder months. Keep curls and studs to a minimum for a more timeless look. Choose your leather (or vegan alternative) or suede boots in a neutral color that will go with anything.
Remember: Between commutes, meetings, and after-work events, what you really need is a pair of shoes that are not only stylish but just as comfortable.

CLERGERY

Oxfords and Oxfordsbuy now

GUCCI

Loafersbuy now

DADAWEN

Oxfords with platformbuy now

STUART WEITZMAN

Leather pumpsbuy now

NEW WEST

Pumps in natural suede buy now

Business casual jeans for women

Once banned in the office, denim jeans in the office are becoming more common as workplaces increasingly embrace more casual dress codes.

Super versatile, seasonal and comfortable while remaining stylish, denim jeans are all the rage.

So know that yes, you can wear work-friendly jeans as a casual outfit, as long as they are fitted well and your outfits remain immaculate. Dressing your jeans (with, say, a pair of heels or a blazer) is a must.

Style tip: opt for a pair of timeless skinny or boot cut jeans. As a rule of thumb, go for jeans that have a darker wash with little to no wear and tear for a more polished look. Additionally, slightly stretchy denim tends to be more comfortable for sitting for long periods of time.

CELINE

Jeans buy now

LEVI'S

Skinny jeans buy now

LEVI'S

High waist skinny jeans buy now

Casual Shirts for Business Women

A chic button-down white shirt in a classic cotton or more feminine silk style is a business casual staple.

For a more trendy business-casual vibe, opt for a button-down shirt with a feminine touch, such as ruffles or a studded collar.

WHITE

Luxury white shirtbuy now

RUNCATI

Cheap white shirtbuy now

Business casual shirts and tops

Shirts aren't the only casual tops of choice. The beautiful thing about the business casual dress code is that it allows a little more fun with your daily work wardrobe than some other more formal corporate dress codes.

You can go outside of the neutral primary colors for your tops. Experiment with stylish blouses in a variety of sleeve lengths in pastel tones, jewel tones, checks, muted florals and subtle prints. However, don't be too trendy with overdone designs and avoid anything that is too revealing or transparent.

To master the delicate balance of business casual, pair your trendy blouses and tops with classic pants or skirts.

BURBERRY

Long sleeve topbuy now

ECOWISH

Leopard print tunicbuy now

Business casual dresses

Business casual dresses are an office staple for summer and winter days.

Beyond structured dresses resembling business suits, business casual dresses come in many other refined forms that are ideal for the office. From shift dresses to turtleneck dresses, wrap dresses, silk dresses and midi dresses, business casual dresses are super versatile, figure-flattering, and easy to wear and layer. Just make sure they are an appropriate length and suitable for the office.

DOLCE & GABBANA

Midi dressbuy now

REKUCCI

Crossed midi dressbuy now

MUXXN

Retro style pencil dressbuy now

DAILY RITUAL

Sleeveless midi dressbuy now

Business casual skirts

Both stylish and versatile, pencil or A-line skirts with appropriate length are another staple in the business casual wardrobe.

These classic skirts pair easily with a rotating selection of dress blouses or button down shirts.

BALMAIN

Pencil skirtbuy now

URBAN COCONUT

Bodycon midi pencil skirtbuy now

KATE KASIN

A-line pleated skirtbuy now

Business casual woman pants

Mid-rise, wide, straight or slim-rise business casual pants are the first option for most women in the workplace.

Stylish black pants are a timeless staple. Choose slightly stretchy office pants for maximum comfort while sitting.
Pro tip: Show off your favorite shoes with cropped pants for a modern and stylish business casual look.

GINASY

Dress pants cropped to the anklebuy now

ISABEL FUNNY

High waist pants buy now

SAINT LAURENT

Wool pantsbuy now

Business casual sweaters

Perfect for the colder months and for keeping you warm in an air-conditioned office, basic sweaters are a great addition to your casual wardrobe all year round.

Wear them tucked into your skirt or dress pants, with jeans and heels, or layer them over shirts and dresses.

Choose sweaters from a range of basic neutrals, but don't be afraid to play around with fashionable colors and patterns as well.

AMAZON ESSENTIALS

Crewneck sweaterbuy now

PRADA

Crewneck sweaterbuy now

FALKE

Knitwear buy now

Business casual jackets and blazers

The right blazer or jacket has the power to instantly elevate any business casual outfit.

Pro Style Tip: You can hem the sleeves of your blazer to soften the look.

LARDINI

Luxury blazer buy now

LOOKBOOK STORE

Blazer jacket buy now

Casual cardigans for business women

You can never have too many cardigans. A staple of business casual wear, your basic cardigan will complement any outfit while keeping you warm.

RICK OWENS

Long black cardigan buy now

CIELO

Open front cardigan buy now

GRACE KARIN

Long knitted cardigan buy now

ISABEL FUNNY

Luxury cardigan buy now

Business casual accessories for women

The final touch to your business casual outfit: accessories.

Jewelry, watches, belts and scarves can instantly change the overall look of your office.

To accessorize a simple office outfit, consider adding a silk scarf in a subtle print or a splash of trendy color.

YARROW

Large silky shawl scarf in solid colorsbuy now

ACNE STUDIOS

Scarf buy now

GUCCI

Wool scar fbuy now

GUCCI

Leather belt buy now

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE

Jewelry buy now

Business casual bags for women

Sleek and functional, with plenty of room and pockets, a polished leather (or faux leather!) Tote bag is perfect for carrying all of your work essentials.

For maximum mix and match potential, go for a neutral color.

MICHAEL MICHAEL KORS

Leather tote bag buy now

KATE SHOVEL

tote buy now

YNIQUE

Alligator leather tote bag buy now

BALMAIN

Luxury tote bag buy now

YNIQUE

Shoulder tote bag buy now

Business casual for plus size women

There are many beautiful casual outfits for women with full hips and thighs.

If you have curves, look for structured fabrics and dark hues that minimize the curves and select pieces that hug your figure perfectly.

For pants, consider opting for mid-rise models with straight or wide legs.

BRIGGS

Plus size pants buy now

NINEXIS

Plus size turtleneck buy now

RIDERS BY LEE

Large size white shirt buy now

Style tips: business casual for women do's and don'ts

We've compiled the dos and don'ts of choosing the right casual dress code.

• It's worth investing in quality casual basics that can be worn all year round and complementing them with more affordable and trendy seasonal pieces.
• All business casual clothing should be clean, ironed and wrinkle free.
• Generally speaking, business casual for women should never be revealing.
• The length of a skirt or dress shouldn't be too short - it should cover you appropriately so you can get up and down comfortably from chairs and up stairs or on an escalator.
• Necklines on blouses and dresses shouldn't be too revealing, either. Avoid plunging V-necks - they shouldn't show too much cleavage.
• Avoid anything that is ill-fitting, too tight, low waist, too fluid or transparent.
• Make sure that the straps of the bra are not visible.
• Avoid spaghetti straps, sleeveless shirts and tank tops; always cover bare shoulders with a blazer.
• Avoid overly distracting jewelry.
• Yoga and athletic wear, workout clothes, and beach wear are prohibited in the office.
• When it comes to your color scheme, stick with casual essentials in neutral color - black, gray, navy, cream, and white are always a safe bet. You can then accentuate your muted neutral office outfits with pops of color or printed pieces.
• Don't go overboard with the mix of prints or risk a fashion faux pas. Remember: If you want to wear a bold, on-trend piece such as a floral or leopard print, balance it with casual, minimalist items like a crisp white blouse.
• Avoid clothing with political or potentially offensive words or graphics.
• Keep your makeup natural and understated.
• Observe how your coworkers are dressed to see what is considered appropriate or check with HR to determine the degree of casual dress code.
• When in doubt, it is always wiser to opt for the more formal version of business casual, especially during job interviews.
• Your office attire should always be formal enough that you can comfortably attend an unexpected business meeting.

Casual Dress for Women: Frequently Asked Questions Are jeans business casual for a woman?

It varies from workplace to workplace. But in today's work environments, jeans are more commonly accepted as part of the business casual dress code.Can leggings be casual?

Unless your workplace has a very casual casual dress code, you have to assume that leggings are not acceptable to wear to work. If you wear leggings to the office, make sure they are covered from the top (whether it's a dress, skirt, tunic, or long sweater).What kind of shoes to wear business casual?

There are many options of casual shoes for women: loafers, oxfords, ballet flats, block heels, ankle boots, etc. Footwear suitable for the office should be both stylish and incredibly comfortable.Are knee high boots casual?

Knee-high boots are appropriate for the casual work environment, as long as you wear them with an outfit of the appropriate length. Are open-toe shoes casual?

In most corporate environments, open-toed shoes are not considered professional and generally not suitable for the office. Are 4 inch heels too high for work?

A general rule of thumb: Your heels are too high if you can't do your job while wearing them. For most women, the maximum suitable for a desk is four inches, at the top.