So you got a new job. The dress code is business casual. But what does that really mean? Business casual is the standard attire for so many occasions; it’s typical office wear and is often expected for other non-formal occasions. For men, business casual is so straightforward – usually a button down tucked into chinos or slacks – but for women, the expectation isn’t as clear. In my opinion, this is actually a good thing because it gives us a lot more flexibility in what we can wear!
Outfit Details:
White blazer | Striped button down | Soufeel name necklace (c/o, use code LGa115 for 15% off) | Black ankle pants | SAS Luxe loafers (c/o) | The Purse Club black quilted handbag (c/o)
1. Find the Right Shoe
Let’s start from the bottom up. Sometimes it really is all about finding the right shoe. It’s important to wear something that is formal enough that will dress up your whole look but also comfortable enough to wear all day long (especially if this is a workwear look). I truly believe that the right shoe can truly make an outfit, and on the flip side, the wrong shoe can, well…. it can just look wrong.
Lately, I’m loving these Luxe loafers from SAS Shoes because they are super chic black suede with a patent strap across the top, but they are also comfortable. I obviously have a thing for shoes , and these puppies are a pair of winners! I love how they look chic with a business casual look, but they are also cute with a pair of jeans for a more dressed down look as well.
2. Choose the Right Fit for Your Business Casual Basics
Whether you opt for pants and a shirt, a pencil skirt and silk blouse or a dress, make sure each piece fits well. Make sure dresses and skirts are well past the fingertips almost or at knee-length. Although I firmly believe there is a time and a place for shorter dresses, usually it isn’t as a part of a business casual look. I also prefer my skirts and dresses to be fitted, but not too tight.
When I said that women have a bit more flexibility with what we can wear, I meant it! For example, we can wear comfy pants! I love this pair of pants because of the stretch and movement they allow. Always opt for something that isn’t too restrictive and will allow you to move comfortably all day long. The pants I’m wearing here are basically glorified leggings, but shhh… no one has to know!
A button down is a classic that really is appropriate for almost any occasion. Whenever I’m unsure of how “professional” I need to be, I usually opt for a button down. If you are feeling more causal, do a chic “half-tuck” like I did here, by only tucking in one side of the shirt. What is great about this is that if you feel like this look is too casual, you can go ahead and opt for a full tuck.
3. Add a Third Piece
This is a well-known rule of them for proper dressing, but I think it applies especially to business casual attire. This rule is all about polishing off your overall look. In my case, I opted for a simple white blazer, but sometimes I opt for a more colorful, playful blazer. For your third piece, you can go for a blazer, a chic vest, or sometimes a simple scarf can even do the trick.
4. Accessorize!
I’ve teamed up with The Purse Club to share some fabulous high quality fashionable bags, but without the designer price tag! As a part of my membership, the first bag that was delivered was this gorgeous quilted crossbody. I knew it would perfect for a night out for dinner and drinks, but I absolutely love how it elevated my business casual look. It brought a sense of glam I would have otherwise been missing!
Another glam piece that has brought my look up a level is my new rose gold name necklace from Soufeel. I first put some feelers out there via a poll my Instagram stories to see what the general response was of these name necklaces. Some of you were not fans, but some were VERY much on board. When I found this pretty scripted version, I knew this would become a new daily piece for me.
Finally, I have a few rings and bracelets that I like to wear regularly for a little extra sparkle. According to my favorite style guru, Gretta Monahan, gone are the days of “one and done” with accessories. She says to load them up and go big and bold. I’m heeding her advice and wearing a few favorite sparkly pieces!
For whatever occasion you need some business casual style inspiration for, just be sure to find quality pieces that fit your body, stay true to your own style and of course, add a little extra glam!
xo -L
Thank you SAS Shoemakers, Soufeel Jewelry and The Purse Club for the complimentary pieces to put this look together!
