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Corporate casual

Find the right business looks for men

By , About.com Guide

Relaxed dress codes are now an integral part of the American workforce. Almost two-thirds of workers get casual regularly. But the sometimes vague description of corporate casual (jeans OK some places, off-limits others) adds to the confusion of mix-and-match dressing.

What's a man to do?

Here are some basic guidelines for business casual:

  • Casual doesn't mean sloppy. Business casual must still be polished and professional. Basic business casual looks like a polo shirt/khaki pant combo are appropriate in many corporations. For a more polished casual look, you'll need to add the sportcoat.
  • When choosing colors, you can go for contrast (complimentary, but different) like a blue shirt with khaki pant or tonal (different hues in the same color family) like a light green shirt with olive pants 
  • Casual shoes should be kept in the same tip-top, shined-up and scuff-free shape as their dressier counterparts. Styles range from penny loafers to lace-ups, leaving lots for comfort and budget preferences.
  • Belts and socks should always compliment the outfit. The type and color of socks (no white athletics) and belt will take its cue from the outfit.

DON'Ts:

  • Short-sleeve dress shirt with a tie
  • Sweats, logo Ts or tank tops
  • Sneakers or gym shoes
  • Wrinkled clothes, bad grooming

And just remember -- the comfort factor of dressing down for work far outweighs any wardrobe anxiety it may cause!

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