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HOW TO DRESS BUSINESS CASUAL: EASY OUTFIT IDEAS FOR MEN
If you’re still trying to decode ‘business casual’, you’re not the only one - trust us.
Sitting in that awkward middle ground where a full suit feels too stiff, but jeans feel too relaxed, there’s a real knack to getting it right. The challenge is finding a balance - you want something professional enough for a client meeting, but comfy enough for a full day at your desk.
And that’s where we come in! We’re removing the guesswork by revealing the trusty staples and showing you how to style them, so you can build a wardrobe of casual office wear men can rely on for every day at the office.
WHAT IS BUSINESS CASUAL?
To master business casual, you want to start by figuring out the boundaries. Think about the setting you’re dressing for, and go from there.
Business casual 101
In a nutshell, business casual is a professional style that doesn’t quite need the full suit and tie. A look that’s more ‘buttoned-up’ than your weekend clothes, but more approachable than traditional corporate attire, it tends to be the standard in most workplaces nowadays. You’re basically aiming for an outfit that makes you look competent, reliable and respectful of your professional surroundings.
Business casual vs smart casual
It’s easy to get the two mixed up, but there are some key differences. Where smart casual can include more relaxed styles, like high-quality denim or clean trainers, business casual tends to stay slightly more formal. For example, a smart casual outfit might be made up of a designer t-shirt under a blazer, but business casual would usually expect a collared shirt instead.
When to wear business casual
Consider this dress code the default for most modern offices, hybrid working environments and networking events. It’s also the safest bet for job interviews in creative or tech industries, where a suit might feel a tad outdated. If you’re ever unsure, shoot for the smarter end of the spectrum - it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed.
KEY PIECES FOR A BUSINESS CASUAL WARDROBE
Building a solid foundation of men’s office fashion starts with a few versatile staples. That way, you can mix and match effortlessly every day.
SHIRTS
There’s no doubt about it - the shirt is always the centrepiece. You can never go wrong with a white formal shirt, but business casual shirts can include subtly patterned styles and button-down Oxfords as well. Make sure to keep the collar crisp and the fabric well-ironed to hit that smarter look.
TROUSERS & CHINOS
It goes without saying, but leave the joggers at home - business casual calls for trousers or chinos. Our recommendation? Chinos in navy, cream or black. Giving a tailored look with the comfort of cotton, they make the ultimate business casual staple - they have a much cleaner silhouette than standard jeans, too.
KNITWEAR
A fine-gauge jumper or cardigan is a brilliant way to add an extra layer of sophistication. Wearing a V-neck or crew-neck jumper over a collared shirt not only looks smart, but it keeps you warm in air-conditioned offices as well. Just remember to stick to solid colours to keep the outfit professional.
BLAZERS
A blazer is a powerful tool in your wardrobe. It instantly transforms a simple shirt-and-chino combo into a look fit for a boardroom. They might not always be needed, but having a well-fitted blazer on the back of your office chair is a great way to prepare for unexpected visitors.
BUSINESS CASUAL OUTFIT IDEAS FOR MEN
The staples we just mentioned? Get a good collection together, and you’ll have all you need for a range of men’s smart outfits. Just follow these simple formulas, and you can’t go wrong!
Everyday office outfits
For a trusty everyday look, reach for a light blue work shirt, navy chinos and brown leather shoes. A classic - and effortless - combo, it nails the professional vibe every time.
Business casual for meetings
When you need to look extra sharp, add a blazer into the mix. A grey one over a formal shirt and dark trousers will show you mean business without going over the top in a full suit.
Business casual in warmer weather
Once the temperatures rise, make sure you choose breathable fabrics like linen shirts and lightweight cotton chinos. You can lose the knitwear, and remember to opt for lighter colours like stone or pale grey, which reflect the heat while hitting the dress code.
Business casual in colder weather
Winter is all about layers. Add a quilted jacket or smart coat over your jumper and shirt, and you’ll effortlessly beat the chill on your commute. Even better, layering gives plenty of flexibility to get the right temperature once you’re in the office - you can peel a layer off when you’re warm, and put one back on when it’s chilly, simple.
FOOTWEAR FOR BUSINESS CASUAL
At first, shoes might feel like an afterthought, but really, they’re the piece that can make or break the outfit. They’re often the first thing other people notice, so make sure to keep them clean and in good condition.
SHOES
Classic smart shoes like brogues or loafers will always be a top choice. And when it comes to colour, brown or tan leather is often preferred over black, because they feel a bit more relaxed - as an added bonus, they pair better with chinos too.
TRAINERS
If you’re a creative or you work in tech, clean, minimalist leather trainers are often welcomed in the office. Our top tip - make sure they’re spotless, free of heavy branding, and paired with tailored trousers to keep a professional finish.
WHAT TO AVOID WHEN DRESSING BUSINESS CASUAL
Even in a relaxed environment, some items cross the line into too casual.
Clothes that look too casual
Hoodies, ripped jeans, graphic t-shirts and flip-flops - these should definitely be avoided. Yes, they’re comfy, and they’re perfect for your weekend wardrobe, but unfortunately, they don’t belong in the office.
Clothes that feel too formal
A three-piece suit and silk tie. They’re a little too smart for business casual, so they might make you stand out for the wrong reasons - especially if the rest of the team just wear shirts and trousers.
BUSINESS CASUAL DONE RIGHT
At the end of the day, it’s about finding a look that makes you feel confident and prepared to take on whatever the day has in store. It’s the easiest way to show you’re serious about your job without sacrificing comfort.
By investing in key pieces from the workwear range at Jacamo, you can easily build a rotation of outfits that look sharp and feel effortless to style every day of the week.