“Business casual” might sound like a simple dress code – a blend of “business” and “casual.” Yet, deciphering what truly fits this category can be tricky. Is it too formal? Is it too relaxed? This guide breaks down the meaning of business casual in today’s world, explores how it has evolved, and provides practical tips for mastering this dress code in 2023.
Decoding Business Casual: Professionalism Meets Comfort
Business casual sits comfortably between formal business wear and everyday casual clothing. Think elevated and professional, but without the strict formality of a full suit. It’s about striking a balance – being polished enough for the workplace while still allowing for personal style and comfort.
De Anne Combs, a fashion, textile, and travel expert and co-founder of La Peony, describes business casual as “a seamless blend of ‘elegant’ and ‘effortless.’ It’s an upscale look that’s chic enough to command attention yet understated enough not to overwhelm.” This captures the essence of business casual perfectly – sophisticated yet approachable.
MaryKathryn McArthur, lead stylist at Short Story, emphasizes the balance inherent in business casual. She sees it as “that harmonious balance between a suit set and weekend wear.” This dress code, she believes, offers a chance to inject more personality into your professional wardrobe.
“It brings a level of comfort to the table, not only because you can avoid a stiff suit, but also because you feel more YOU!” McArthur explains. “Depending on your workplace, this can mean a pair of black or dark wash jeans paired with a nice blouse that can be elevated with a chic blazer.”
Woman in business casual attire holding clothing items, suggesting outfit choices
It’s important to remember that business casual can vary depending on the specific company culture. A tech startup might have a more relaxed interpretation than a traditional financial firm. For instance, jeans might be perfectly acceptable at a casual startup environment but less common at a client-facing marketing agency. If you’re unsure about a company’s interpretation of business casual, researching employee photos on platforms like LinkedIn or the company website can offer valuable clues. When in doubt, it’s always wiser to lean slightly more formal.
Typical examples of business casual attire traditionally include:
- Blouses
- Dress shirts
- Slacks or khakis
- Dress pants
- Knee-length or longer skirts
- Dresses
- Blazers
The Evolution of Business Casual: Embracing Comfort in the Modern Workplace
The concept of business casual has significantly shifted, particularly in recent years. The pandemic and the rise of remote work have blurred the lines between professional and casual wear. As people transitioned back to the office, they brought with them a desire for comfort that has reshaped workplace dress codes.
Combs notes this evolution: “We traded dress pants for leggings and sweats became tailored ‘streetwear.’ Even high-heeled pumps transitioned into slides or upscale sneakers. Previously, I wouldn’t have envisioned boyfriend jeans or any of the above items working well at an office meeting or birthday brunch. Thanks to some stylish updates, however, they not only work — they’re a sophisticated wardrobe choice!” Comfort and style have merged, leading to a more relaxed yet still professional approach to business casual.
McArthur highlights how this comfort focus allows for greater self-expression in work attire. “You’re going to be discussing millionaire dollar deals one minute, and then feeding your dog the next, so you’ll want to feel 100% in your element.” This blend of work and personal life has influenced the desire for clothing that feels authentic and comfortable throughout the day.
Business Casual in 2023: What to Wear Now
So, what does business casual actually look like in 2023? It’s about embracing contemporary trends while maintaining a professional image.
Business Casual for Women in 2023: Personalized and Polished
Fashion experts predict that business casual for women in 2023 will center around enhancing classic pieces with personal flair. It’s about showcasing individual style while adhering to professional standards.
Giovanni Bordone, a fashion professor at London Metropolitan University, suggests that while dark suits are making a comeback, they are being styled with “a different touch, such as a fancy scarf, a pair of funky sneakers or a colorful sweater.” This demonstrates the move towards personalized business casual.
Bordone believes women will continue to use suits for “power dressing” in 2023, “but will move into a more personalized and individualized look where the accessories are playing a defining role.” Accessories become key to making formal wear more adaptable to a business casual environment.
Here are some key business casual items for women in 2023:
- Blazers in various colors and fabrics
- Lightweight blouses in vibrant or pastel shades
- Neutral-toned dresses paired with stylish jackets
- Comfortable boots and closed-toe shoes
- T-shirts layered under blazers or jackets
- Flowy, wide-leg trousers
- Tailored knitwear
Business Casual for Men in 2023: Relaxed and Refined
For men in 2023, business casual leans into the “casual” aspect, emphasizing comfort and incorporating retro-inspired elements, according to Combs. She points to “a return to some fun, old-school elements from the pre-millenium era. Neckties, baggy pants, low-riding waistlines, patchwork fabrics, and denim-on-denim outfits are just some of the latest runway styles.”
In a practical office setting, this translates to relaxed yet refined pieces. Examples of business casual trends for men in 2023 include:
- Comfortable, stylish sweaters
- Dress shirts with patterns or in non-traditional colors
- Relaxed-fit slacks or chinos
- Simple, well-fitting blazers or jackets
- Fashionable closed-toe shoes like loafers or boots
The Takeaway: Business Casual in 2023 is About Balanced Professionalism
Business casual, at its core, remains a blend of professional and relaxed attire. Dressing business casual means looking put-together and workplace-appropriate, without needing to resort to a full formal suit. It’s an opportunity to express your personal style while maintaining a professional image suitable for the office.
In 2023, business casual trends encourage professionals to embrace comfort and individuality. To effectively navigate this dress code, choose comfortable yet polished items that make you feel confident and ready for the workday. Business casual is about finding that sweet spot where professionalism and personal style intersect.
Image credit: Thirdman / Pexels
This article was originally published on Forage.
