Thursday, July 30, 2009

What Is Business Casual and How is a Woman to Wear It?


Everyone is talking about work attire, especially business casual. No wonder when the words themselves are an oxymoron. Here you will learn what business casual means and how you can dress accordingly. In an environment where jobs are on the line, what you wear to work has become more important than ever.

DRESS LIKE YOU ARE A MEMBER OF A TEAM. What to wear to work is determined by your work environment. As many employees work in teams, you have to dress as a member of that team. There is always an implied dress code. If you are unsure, observe other successful women where you work, or consult your HR department to understand what is required.

REALIZE THAT "CASUAL" SHOULD NOT BE TAKEN LITERALLY. Your personal level of comfort should not be offensive to your co-workers. Clothes and shoes should be clean, well-maintained and not revealing. Undergarment straps/colors should be hidden.

WEAR CLOTHES THAT FIT. A tailored fit is always appropriate for business. Clothing that is too tight, too loose, too short, too revealing, or has too many layers, ruffles, edges or adornments is not appropriate.


KEEP ACCESSORIES NEUTRAL Closed toe shoes you can walk in, handbags not suitcases, and jewelry that doesn't jangle are all appropriate. Make-up should be natural and perfume left for evening.

ALWAYS ASK YOURSELF "WHERE CAN I WEAR THIS OUTFIT". If you think you can wear it to the beach, a barbecue, or a club, you cannot wear it to work.

SIMPLY STATED YOUR BUSINESS WARDROBE SHOULD BE JUST THAT, CLOTHING THAT IS RESERVED FOR WORK. Always be ready to meet the boss, an important client, or promote your career by dressing appropriately every day.

No comments: