The business casual dress code has become increasingly common in today’s workplace. While the lines between traditional business attire and modern casual are blurred, some offices still skew more towards the formal side than others.
A simple dark navy blazer is the ideal outerwear staple for business casual outfits. Wear it with pressed trousers and a classic white t-shirt for an elegant look.
Professional Outerwear for Work
Business casual has become a popular style of professional attire that bridges the gap between strict corporate clothing and more relaxed everyday wear. While it’s important to appear polished and put together, business casual also leaves room for a little creativity and personal expression. Here are a few options for incorporating outerwear into your business casual wardrobe.
Business Casual Blazers
If you’re looking for a classic blazer for a business casual look, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Choose a single- or double-breasted blazer in neutral colors like black, navy, and gray for a timeless silhouette. You can also find lightweight and mid-weight blazers made from materials like wool and linen.
The key to a good business casual jacket is the fit. Make sure your blazer fits well and doesn’t cinch at the waist. Also, consider choosing a tailored jacket with an open front for a more formal look or a textured fabric to add more visual interest to your outfit.
A trench coat is another stylish option that can be worn over T-shirts and sweaters or a button-down shirt with chinos or trousers. If you’re in a more casual environment, you can even go with a field jacket for a versatile option that will keep you warm and comfortable on the job.
Business Casual Blazers and Jackets
If your workplace has a dress code that leans more towards business casual than professional, there are plenty of outerwear options. Blazers in neutral colors like black and navy will go with just about anything, especially khaki pants or jeans. You can also look for a sport coat in tweed or linen that offers the same level of professional style without being overly formal. Look for classic features like a single-breasted closure, patch pockets, and slits in the sleeves. The right add-ons, such as elbow patches and ticket pockets, can add a touch of fashionable playfulness that’s appropriate for this kind of outfit.
A blazer alone isn’t going to cut it for this kind of work attire, so you’ll need a pair of business casual pants as well. You can opt for a khaki pant with a solid color or choose a dark wash for a more relaxed look.
As a rule of thumb, you want to stay away from ripped jeans or shorts, but there are plenty of options in between. Corduroy trousers are a safe choice that strikes the right balance between polished and casual for business casual. Opt for a slim fit and consider adding details such as a monk strap, broguing, or wing tips to dress it up a bit.
Trench Coats for Business Casual
Trench coats are an elegant, stylish outerwear option for business casual outfits. They are often favored by celebrities, actors and singers due to their sophistication and elegance and look great with most outfits. They also come in different styles and lengths depending on the type of look you are after. For example, shorter trench coats that stop at the knee can be worn over pantsuits to add a touch of formality. They can also be worn over smart sheath dresses to give your outfit a sophisticated look.
You can choose from a variety of colors and fabrics to find the perfect trench coat for your style. Light-colored wool trench coats are ideal for fall and winter, while linen or cotton trench coats are good choices for spring and summer. When choosing a color, opt for something classic like navy blue or charcoal gray to ensure that your coat will match most of your professional wardrobe.
A peacoat is another traditional choice for business casual attire, although it may not translate well to a more formal setting and read this https://aristino.com/blog/gia-may-vest-nam/. You can choose from a range of fabric and color options, but the best choice is a heavy gabardine wool peacoat that will stand up to weather and will last for years when properly cared for. Avoid polyester peacoats as they can get sweaty and be uncomfortable.
Choosing Business Casual Outerwear
Achieving a polished business casual look requires more than just selecting the right jacket. You must also take care of the details, including neatly styled hair and clean hands. You may want to carry a professional leather briefcase with plenty of compartments for organizing essential items like your phone, tablet, and laptop. Ensure that your shoes are professionally clean and well-cared for as well. You may wish to add a few personal touches to your outfit such as a stylish watch, but do not overdo it.
For a professional look, consider a lightweight shawl or cardigan sweater in neutral or subdued colors. Lightweight merino wool sweaters work particularly well since they pair well with most other business casual attire. Alternatively, choose a soft cashmere or cotton blend sweater in a subtle color.
Choosing the right coat or jacket for business casual also depends on your climate. If you live in a hotter climate, try a lighter-weight blazer or overshirt instead of a trench coat. Brands like Universal Works, Nanamica, and Beams Plus make outerwear that straddles the biz-casual intersection with outdoor ruggedness.
Many workplaces have moved to a more casual dress code, allowing employees some flexibility in their appearance without losing professionalism. As a result, the business casual fashion trend has grown in popularity among professionals. This guide outlines the best jacket options for business casual to help you gain respect in the office and appear ready for any business challenge that comes your way.