Business Casual Dress Code For Workplaces

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With the explosion in hybrid working, nailing a business casual look in the workplace has become more complex. Here’s the deal: Business casual attire means different things in different companies and industries. What’s acceptable in a law firm may seem too formal and restrictive for a creative design agency. And when working from home, do you really need to dress professionally all the time? It’s a bit of a minefield.

This post will help you navigate the confusion. We break down what business casual attire means for men and women in 2025 and share practical tips on maintaining a professional dress code, even while working remotely.

What Is A Business Casual Dress Code?

While there’s no one-size-fits-all definition, business casual is generally considered a more relaxed version of traditional business attire.

For men, that typically means ditching the tie and replacing full suits with slacks, button-down shirts, and blazers. For women in business, knee-length skirts, dresses, smart slacks, and stylish blouses are excellent choices.

Many organizations already embrace a casual Friday policy. In fact, around 57 percent do, according to one survey. What’s more, 82 percent of employees say they are more productive when they feel comfortable in their clothing. It’s no surprise, then, that business casual is now seen as both practical and fashionable.

However, keep in mind that business casual expectations vary widely depending on your industry. A gaming startup might welcome neon accents and dark jeans, while a law or accounting firm may find that too casual. The tips below will help you dress the part, whether you’re in finance, design, or remote work.

What Is Business Casual For Men?

If you’re a khakis-and-polo guy, then business casual will feel natural. Here are some wardrobe staples that reflect professional yet relaxed style:

• Tops: Long-sleeved button-down shirts, collared shirts, and fine-knit sweaters
• Slacks: Neutral or dark-colored dress pants, khakis, or chinos
• Blazers or jackets: Optional, but ideal for a polished look, go for classic colors like grey, navy, or black
• Shoes: Loafers or leather lace-up shoes in black or brown; ensure they’re clean and polished
• Socks: Choose black or dark-colored socks, avoid white or brightly colored options

Pro tip: Avoid chunky knits. Instead, opt for slim or fine-knit sweaters layered over shirts for a refined appearance.

What Is Business Casual Dress Code For Women?

Women have greater flexibility and can incorporate more color into their business casual outfits. Here are some versatile wardrobe staples to keep on hand:

• Tops: Button-down shirts, blouses, smart sweaters, cardigans, and twinsets
• Bottoms: Knee-length or pencil skirts, tailored trousers, khakis, or cotton slacks
• Dresses: Maxi or knee-length dresses with modest cuts
• Jackets or blazers: Great for formalizing your look or staying warm
• Shoes: Closed-toe flats, loafers, or modest heels; hosiery is optional depending on the season or workplace
• Pants: Endorsed by brands like Magic Linen, pants offer effortless style and comfort for a polished and professional look.

Business Casual: What Not To Wear

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s look at some common business casual mistakes to avoid. These do’s and don’ts will keep you polished and professional:

• Do: Wear clothing that fits well, is clean, and pressed. Presentation is key to professionalism.
• Don’t: Show up in baggy, wrinkled, or overly tight clothes. Tank tops, crop tops, and revealing outfits are not business casual.
• Do: Stick with classic styles and neutral color palettes. Women can add personality with colorful blazers or accessories.
• Don’t: Wear sandals, flip-flops, graphic tees, hoodies, or athletic sneakers. Keep logos and slogans off your workwear.

What’s The Dress Code When Working From Home?

Let’s be real, most of us have taken Zoom calls wearing sweatpants and slippers. But while remote work fashion is more relaxed, it’s important to stay camera-ready.

Your outfit should match your schedule. For video calls, at least dress business casual from the waist up. A neat shirt or blouse and a tidy appearance go a long way, even if you’re wearing joggers out of frame.

Always be prepared for surprise meetings. Keep a blazer nearby to quickly elevate your look for external calls or upper management check-ins. A smart jacket can instantly give you a professional edge.

Are Jeans Considered Business Casual?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions in workplace fashion. The answer? It depends. In creative or tech industries, dark-wash jeans without rips or embellishments may be totally fine. But avoid distressed or overly casual styles unless you’re confident it’s accepted.

When in doubt, especially if you’re new, stick with slacks, chinos, or skirts until you understand the company culture. It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than risk being too casual.

Should I Avoid Wearing Polo Shirts?

Polo shirts can be a tricky piece. While they work well for semi-casual settings like informal team gatherings or relaxed interviews, they may not be ideal for a professional office environment. If you’re aiming for a more polished business casual style, opt for button-down shirts or fine-knit sweaters instead.

If you’re leaning casual, jeans paired with a collared shirt or neat Henley top can also do the trick. The key is to consider the formality of the setting and balance your outfit accordingly for a great impression.

Business Casual Cheat Sheet

Here’s a handy summary of all our tips and guidance.

You can download a copy of this cheat sheet here: Business-Casual-Cheat-Sheet.pdf

Casual Fridays

If you’re wondering what Casual Fridays look like under a relaxed dress code, we’ve got some simple advice to help you navigate it.

You can’t go wrong if you take your dress cue from company leadership and follow their lead on what’s appropriate.

However, if you dress professionally Monday to Thursday, turning up in a concert t-shirt and shorts on Friday may be too drastic. Your colleagues might not even recognize you! Don’t forget the ‘business’ part of business casual. Even on dress-down days, aim to look polished , you never know when you might get called into an unexpected client meeting.

What Should I Wear For An Interview?

Deciding what to wear to a job interview is never easy. Add in a business casual policy, and it becomes even more complicated.

Your outfit is a key part of making a great first impression. When in doubt, it’s always safer to overdress slightly. Even if the company promotes a casual culture, turning up in a neat and professional outfit shows you’re serious and respectful.

For men, consider a suit jacket, collared shirt, tie, and slacks. Women can choose between tailored pants and blouses or a simple, elegant dress. Avoid loud prints or flashy colors to stay on the safe side. These same rules apply even for remote interviews , your appearance still reflects your professionalism, even through a screen.

Main Takeaways For The Hybrid Workplace

According to the Oxford Dictionary, business casual is a dress code that conveys a professional and businesslike appearance without being overly formal.

In a hybrid work environment, it’s easy to mix and match a few versatile wardrobe staples. Pair khakis with a polo shirt one day, and a button-down shirt the next. Women can rotate dresses, skirts, and tailored slacks to create fresh, office-appropriate looks.

This approach helps you build a functional and stylish business casual wardrobe without spending a fortune. Look at your calendar each morning , if you have internal meetings only or a free day at home, you can dress down. But it’s smart to keep a blazer or smart jacket nearby in case a video call or meeting with higher-ups pops up.

If you’re attending an important job interview, play it safe and opt for formalwear. You’ll never go wrong by choosing a classic, polished look.

Remember, business casual standards vary by industry and organization. Until you’re familiar with your company’s culture, avoid showing up in jeans or anything too relaxed. Use the tips we’ve shared to ensure you look confident and professional , wherever you work.

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FAQ Section

What is meant by business casual attire?

It’s a blend of traditional business wear and casual comfort—like dress pants or chinos with collared shirts or blouses—mirroring a neat, professional look without full suits or ties.

Can I wear jeans or sneakers under business casual?

Dark, un-ripped jeans may be acceptable in more relaxed environments. Clean, minimalistic leather sneakers are sometimes allowed—avoid athletic-style or brightly colored options.

How should I dress business casual when working remotely?

Maintain a camera-ready appearance—wear a tidy shirt or sweater and consider having a blazer on hand. From the waist down, comfort is fine so long as surprises are avoided on video calls.

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