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Decoding Business Casual Dress Codes

Posted: Friday, June 8, 2012

By Melanie J Rivera


Many things have changed across the business landscape of America over the last several years. The way we dress to go to the office is definitely one of them. For the ladies gone are the days of the Linda Evans in Dynasty power suits with the football player shoulder pads and guys are no longer forced into a three piece suit and tie. The phrase "business casual" is bandied around a lot these days but what does that really mean? A few pointers:

Consider what day it is - If you are meeting with clients err on the conservative side as a mark of respect. Save the khakis for another day when you will be chained to your desk rather than in the spotlight.

Ask first - Different companies have their own interpretation of the terms business casual and dress down Fridays. Many do not want to see jeans even on a dress down day and for others sneakers are still a no no. Check with your supervisor or HR before you turn up for work dressed for a barbeque.

Be consistent - If you dress fairly conservatively from Monday to Thursday resist the temptation to show up on a Friday dressed like you didn't change clothes after rolling out of bed. There are very few companies that will tolerate sweats and baggy tees even on the most casual of days. Besides, is that how you really want your co workers or worse still, clients to see you?

For women:

Pantsuits are great. They are trendy and can be dressed up or down as the occasion calls for. Pants with a bootleg cut are universally flattering as are dark neural shades of black, gray and navy. One of the most flattering dress styles for work is the classic sheath. They accentuate they figure without being too revealing and really never go out of fashion and if you stock up on variety of nice (not too low cut tops) you need only purchase a couple of pairs of dress pants to have a wardrobe versatile enough to gain you a reputation as the office fashionista.

For men:

A few good sports coats are the best additions you can make to your work wardrobe. They look great with wool pants, dress pants even khakis and are pulled together enough for client meetings and presentations. Linen slacks can be a good business casual look as well as long as they are not too Miami Vice. And one word guys - business casual does not mean that your clothes should be wrinkled, get that ironing board out.

1 comments:

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