Business Casual
What it actually means
Polished and workplace-appropriate, but relaxed. Tailored trousers or a skirt with a knit or blouse, a smart dress, or a blazer over something simple. No suit required, no jeans-and-tee either.
The safe choice
Tailored trousers or a midi skirt with a fine knit or blouse, or a simple dress with a blazer. Loafers, flats or a low heel.
Too formal
A full formal suit or evening dressing overshoots the mark.
Too casual
Ripped jeans, graphic tees, sneakers or activewear.
Common mistakes
- Defaulting to jeans - safer to keep trousers tailored
- Too casual a shoe
- Reading it as weekend casual
- Wrinkled or overly relaxed fabrics that undercut the polish
By country & season
Tech and creative fields read this far more relaxed than finance or law. Summer welcomes lighter fabric and colour.