What's In Your Closet?
Given that it’s Halloween, it seems appropriate to address the costumes we wear to work. "Casual dress" entered the workforce during the dot.com boom of the late 1990s. At the time, many businesses viewed it as a low cost way to attract and retain employees. Now many of those same companies struggle with the need to provide feedback to employees who have crossed the "way too casual" line. There’s a difference, you know, between "business casual" attire and "let’s wash the car" attire.
Let’s face it, the guys have it easier so let’s address them first.
Appropriate business casual attire for gentlemen includes trousers, not jeans, made of quality fabric. Solid colors are most appropriate, though very subtle plaids also work. An Oxford cloth (named for its Oxford, England origins), button-down shirt pairs nicely with business casual trousers. When selecting shirts, gentlemen need not stick to white or pale blue. In fact they should feel free to select any color that flatters. For men, the best way to finish off a business casual outfit is to top it with a sportcoat or blazer. Though not necessary, gentlemen may add a tie to further upgrade their look. The best business casual ties include repeating geometric patters, club designs, and even some plaids.
Casual dress presents special challenges for businesswomen. As a rule of thumb, look for upscale fabric and structure. Tailored slacks or skirts are most appropriate, and they are best accompanied by a solid tailored shirt. Topping this outfit with a jacket will help a businesswoman project authority and credibility. For the businesswoman, what attire is likely to be viewed as too casual? Here’s a starter list: short skirts (anything less than 3" above the knee), revealing slits, flounced skirts, sarong-style skirts, tee-shirts, halters, camisoles, cropped tops, and sandals.
By the way, you will almost never go wrong by skipping business casual and dressing more formally for an important meeting or a client call.
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