Business casual outfits for men may often get a bad rap as boring. But we're here to flip that cliché upside down. Not only is business casual attire not dull, but it's also trending, and more individuals are choosing to incorporate business-style pieces into their daily fashion.
If you want to know how to elevate your work wardrobe, check out our men’s style guide on trendy business casual clothing (with a twist). By following a few simple tips, you can ensure that you're always the best dressed in the room–no matter the occasion.
Business Casual: The Dress Code
If your current workplace requires you to dress business casual, it doesn't mean you'll have to give up style altogether. The only thing that remains the same about fashion over the years is that it's constantly evolving, and what business casual attire once meant is not what it means today.
Years ago, business casual clothing involved a coat, tie, and hat. Now, the meaning of business casual changes depending on the industry you're in. A business casual dressed banker will look very different from a business casual tech guru. Before purchasing a new wardrobe to match men’s fashion trends, get a feel for where your job falls on the formality spectrum. Some employers might consider solid denim within the dress code, whereas others have a no-denim policy.
Staple Pieces You'll Find in a Business Casual Wardrobe
If you're just beginning to build a business casual wardrobe, you might not want to go all out. A minimalist business casual wardrobe can be created with a handful of lasting, staple pieces. Here are the pieces you'll need to begin building out your weekly wardrobe.
Coat
A business casual coat will be necessary if you live in a colder climate. Choose a single or double-breasted coat if your business casual workplace leans more towards professional attire. A mac or trench coat are suitable options if your workplace leans towards more casual wear.
Jacket
Jackets are vital to a business casual wardrobe, even if you live in a warm climate. A blazer can be styled casually or dressed up with tailored trousers for an important meeting. Opt for a structured, tailored blazer that fits in all the right places. Rule of thumb, the hem of your blazer should hit around your thumb while your arms are at your sides and cover your bum.
In addition, dress for the season by opting for a dark-colored blazer in the winter months and a cotton or linen-style blazer in the warmer months. Then pair your blazer with a solid white or black tee and a Cuban Link Chain for a stylish business casual look. Looking for clothing items that style as business casual during the day but turn into after you clock out? Blazers are a perfect choice.
Business Casual Tops
When creating your closet, button-ups and button-downs will make up most of your business casual shirts. Many business-style shirts are labeled as button-ups and button-downs. And, though it might not seem so, there is a difference between the two. Button-downs are shirts in which the collar features buttons allowing it to button down to the shirt. Button-ups do not feature buttons on the collar. Staying true to the less is more concept button-ups are typically considered the more formal of the two.
When styling your business casual shirts, a button-up's longer frame is designed to be tucked into your pants, whereas a button-down can be styled untucked to create more casual wear. Though both can be worn with a suit jacket, button-ups should be paired with more professional attire and button-downs with more smart casual outfits.
Business Casual Pants
For a well-balanced wardrobe, ensure that you have at least three types of pants that will fit the business casual style ranging from solid jeans to wool trousers. If you're not allowed to wear jeans at work, skip the jeans and swap them for an extra pair of chinos instead. For a business casual take on the chino, pair it with a sports jacket of a contrasting color. Chinos should end right where your shoe meets your ankle for a proper fit.
Accessories
Accessories are the key to showing off your unique style, even when a business casual dress code is in place. A simple gold or silver chain or ring can elevate any business casual style without breaking guidelines. Check out our other essential men's accessories that pair well with any look.
Business Casual Outfit Examples
Now that you know how to turn your wardrobe into one suitable for a business casual dress code, you may wonder how to style the smart casual pieces together. Follow this simple guide for business casual outfits for men, ranging from most casual to formal.
A More Casual Fit: The T-Shirt and Sports Coat
Items: T-Shirt + Sports Coat + Chinos + Rope Chain
If you're planning a more casual day at the office, swap the dress shirt for a t-shirt and a pair of chinos. When styling a t-shirt as casual businesswear, you'll want to be sure that everything else you wear is more formal. Steer clear of jeans and pair your tee with a suit jacket and a statement accessory like a Rope Chain. This outfit works perfectly if you are looking for date night outfits for men as well.
A Refreshing Look: Jacket Free
Items: Button-up shirt + Dress Pants + Belt + Gold Signet Ring
If the temps are rising, leave the jacket at home and sport a dress shirt styled with your favorite accessories. The key to pulling off this look is choosing accessories that are bold enough to make a statement. A nice watch or a Gold Signet Ring is the perfect way to elevate the look and show off your style.
A Business Fit: The Polo
Dress Pants + Polo Shirt + Sports Coat + Cuban Link Chain
Turn the t-shirt look into more casual businesswear by swapping in a polo shirt instead. This collared business casual look is an easy way to take things up a notch while maintaining an effortless vibe. And, if you want to stand out, you can trade the watch in for a silver Cuban Link Chain.
Remember, the definition of business casual attire will change depending on your workplace. If you've recently started a new job, take a moment to get a feel for the company's style and your coworkers, then begin to make the necessary wardrobe updates.
