The business causal dress code, or smart casual, has evolved as acceptable attire for the workplace since the 1990’s. Companies usually institute this business casual dress code in hopes that their employees will be a bit more comfortable in the workplace. However, simply the mention of the word “casual” has many employees confused about guidelines for their attire. Employees should still appear professional, neat and pulled together, while being relaxed at the same time.
Guidelines for the business casual dress code are essential for the company and for the employees. Employers need to set basic ground rules so that there is a standard by which employees can abide, since everyone’s idea of business casual is different. Every employer wants their associates to look their best regarding corporate apparel, even if the dress code is business casual.
Dress slacks or capris, trousers, blouses, casual dresses, skirts and sweaters are all considered appropriate for women in the workplace. Clothing choices such as denim or cotton capris, sun dresses, tank tops, sweat pants, short-shorts, and midriff tops are not suitable for the workplace. In addition, any clothing that reveals too much skin, such as cleavage, chest, or back, shouldn’t be worn to work. Shoes are an important detail. Women should not wear tennis shoes, flip flops, or flimsy sandals. A sharp, polished flat or heeled casual shoe would do fine.
Makeup, nail polish and jewelry should be chosen with taste. Neutral colors or pale colors work best. Perfume is best left for special occasions outside the office, as many people are allergic to intense scents.
Men’s attire for business casual could include a collared shirt with cotton trousers or dress slacks. Shirts should ultimately be tucked into the trousers and a belt worn as well. Tennis shirts would fit the description since they too have a collar. Unless wearing tennis shoes is good for the business itself, men need to wear casual dress shoes with their trousers.
In an office setting, rarely are jeans accepted as business casual dress wear. However, in a manufacturing setting, jeans may be appropriate, as long as they are pressed, clean, and are without rips or tears. No matter the setting, clothing with words or sayings or pictures could be problematic, so avoid them while in the workplace. Leave clothing that is sexually provocative, sports profanity or is political or religious in nature, at home!
Many companies encourage their employees to wear clothing with the Company logo. Some companies even distribute such clothing as corporate gifts of appreciation. By wearing it, the employee is not only comfortable, but he appears professional and the logo gives the company free advertising wherever the employee goes. An embroidered (logo) polo shirt is a common “uniform” for several companies these days. Paired with a pair of trousers, this look works for both men and women.
Dress down day is allowed by some businesses one day a week or one day a month. For that day only, the company may specify that jeans and (nice, clean) tennis shoes are suitable. Employers should remind their associates that all of the rules regarding too much skin showing or items with potentially offensive pictures or words should still be avoided on dress down day.
Overall, employees need to remember to always appear professional on the job, regardless of the type of workplace. Guidelines set by the employer will enable employees to dress appropriately.
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