Someone asked me what I wear when I am working out of my home office. I have to confess while I’m not always at the top of my game, if I have things to get done I will kick my look up to “Business Casual” because I tend to stay on task when I am dressed for work.
What is business casual?
Normally I’d say it’s one step down from professional dressing, with the end goal of looking polished and put together: wrinkle free and clean, however business casual isn’t just for those who work outside the home – this is the dress code for other areas of our lives like parent/teacher conferences, wedding/baby showers, and community/church functions that are more social than professional.
When is business casual the right choice?
This style category is best when you want to look nice but not like you are going to a job interview or to an office.
How can you ramp up your casual-casual wardrobe and give it a little more zing?
- Instead of a regular t-shirt, choose a polo shirt or a scoop neck to kick up a notch.
- Dark wash jeans are another good option – if you iron a crease into your jeans, you dress them up with very little effort.
The easiest is to add a third piece to your outfit – and personalize it.
For you gals out there: Try a long necklace that reflects you – from pearls or some sort of an earthy textured look, a scarf or a stylish belt over the top of a longer knit shirt or for you guys: tuck your shirt in and you can upgrade to business casual.
An example for you guys: My son works as an auto parts manager and hates to wear a belt with the shirt tucked in, but it’s the dress code. We found a belt that looks like a timing belt the kind you’d find under the hood of your car that has ridges on it. It’s His personality and it’s also business appropriate.
Just remember, the third piece is the pop – it will take your look to the top.
Jill Swanson, owner of Beauty Made Easy, image coach, style consultant, national speaker, and the author of Simply Beautiful Inside & Out, Simply Scarves, and Simply Closets.
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Jill is also a member of NSA and AICI.
It would be easy to believe that Jill was born with exceptional looks and style, but she is living proof that beauty begins within. Underneath her impeccable exterior is evidence of a profound challenge. Jill was born with a rare birth defect. 
Hi Jill,
Good to see you doing so well! You look fabulous! I still am buying my Lancome` green eyeliner and tink of you ofeten when I apply it! A great tip that serves me well!