6 Tips for Better Business Casual Outfits

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Business casual is a style that combines the sophisticated flair of business outfits and the laidback aura of casual wear. As this requires a perfect balance of different fashion types, you need to be careful when mixing their polar-opposite pieces. Follow these six tips on creating stunning business casual outfits!

1. Top It Off

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Your top is usually the first thing people notice when you walk in at work (or any other establishment, for that matter.) So, if you want to get that chic, confident look, wear an eye-catching top. Pick a color, pattern, or texture that will wow your officemates (and other onlookers) the moment you walk in.

Not always, but sometimes—the louder, the better, if you really want to make a statement. That said, if you’re going all out with the bells and whistles, make sure to tone it down with the rest of your outfit. Balance is key. You don’t want your bold green top to clash with a hot pink skirt. You’re going for business casual attire, not a ready-to-go-clubbing outfit!

2. Pick ‘Peculiar’ Pants

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Business attire often calls for the same old boring trousers. So, if you’re looking to revolutionize your look, go for peculiar pants. And by peculiar, we mean pants you won’t usually wear inside the boardroom.

One of the best types of pants to don is a pair of wide-legged trousers. Its relaxed, baggy style makes it perfect for beating the summer heat. If length isn’t a big deal in the office, then try a chic pair of culottes. Similarly, it’s a very fashionable choice for the warmer months.

A pair of joggers is another style you ought to consider. Just make sure to pick a design that’s impeccably tailored and made with good fabrics. You don’t want to look like you’re going for a run in your office!

Remember: Whatever casual pants style you choose, make sure to wear it with ‘businessy’ tops, such as a button-down blouse and a tailored blazer.

3. Show Some Leg

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Business outfits often call for knee-length or midi skirts. But if you’re looking to build an impeccable business casual ensemble, go for a shorter, novelty skirt. Think plaid or a subtle animal print. Another option is a uniquely-styled skirt. Think tassels, fringe, embroidery, and other designs that will make you stand out in the office.

As always, make sure to style your skirt with a contrasting-style top. If you’re going for a black skirt, pair it with a light/bright-colored or patterned blouse. But if you’re going for wild animal prints, keep it simpler on the top with a sleek, solid-colored top.

Tip: If the office is strict with showing some leg, you can ‘bend’ the rules by wearing tights underneath your skirt.

4. Dress to Impress

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If you’re not in the mood to mix and match things up, you can always throw on a sophisticated dress.

Of course, you should always feel comfortable rocking whatever silhouettes you adore and feel confident in. But, if you want to flatter your figure the most, consider your body type first.

For example, if you have an apple body shape (top heavier), then be sure to highlight your slender legs in an above-the-knee dress or a frock with a slit.

If you have a long, lean rectangular body, then pick a dress that creates more curves. Choose a belted frock or one with a lot of voluminous ruffles and ruchings.

If you’re bottom-heavy or pear-shaped, choose A- or X-line dresses. These styles will help balance your upper and lower body.

If you have an hourglass shape, consider yourself a lucky one. You can wear virtually any dress you want and still look stunning!

5. Bring a Stylish Bag

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While choosing the right clothes is crucial to building a better business casual outfit, the accessories matter too. That’s why you need to pick the best types of handbags to go with your attire. A sleek leather tote remains to be one of the best choices. Apart from being spacious enough to accommodate all your work essentials, it blends well with your business casual attire.

Don’t need to bring a lot to the office? You can downsize your bag (but not your style) with a vibrantly-colored clutch or a petite crossbody bag.

6. Step it Up

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Even if you like keeping your attire trim, you can still channel a beautiful business casual look by wearing attention-grabbing footwear. Instead of the usual black pumps, loafers, or oxfords, go for a vibrant color, such as fuchsia or bright blue. Plaid and floral prints would surely draw attention to your feet as well! A sexy pair of sandals is a great option, too. But instead of opting for nude heels, pick a style with a unique heel or an over-the-top embellishment (gemstones, tassels, butterflies, you name it.)

As you see, achieving a better business casual outfit is easy. All you need to do is pick the right pieces and make sure they complement each other. Balance is key!