You’ve got your first office job and you’ve already started to panic because you aren’t familiar with the corporate-casual dress code? Look no further because we’re here to help you out! Here’s everything you need to know about this type of dress code, together with some useful tips on how to embrace it properly, so keep on reading and get down to business right away!
What is a corporate-casual dress code?
A corporate-casual is a dress code which started to emerge during the last decade, when a large number of people have decided to switch from strictly formal business attire to more casual clothing combos. However, as all-casual outfits aren’t really suitable for the business environment, this style has grown into a corporate-casual one, which is now embraced by millions of people from all over the globe. It’s important to remember that torn, dirty and wrinkled clothes are a huge no, no matter how casual the dress code is. The same goes for garments that show too much skin and those appropriate for workouts and the beach.
How to dress according to a corporate-casual dress code?
Even though dressing according to a corporate-casual dress code may seem like an extremely challenging task, the truth is that it doesn’t have to be like that at all. As mentioned above, too revealing clothes should be avoided at all costs, as showing too much cleavage or your underwear is anything but professional. The same goes for your favorite yoga pants and a pair of trainers, so be sure to stay away from them – at least when it comes to the business environment. As for the clothes and the tips for combining them, these are the following:
Pick casual garments that look polished and professional at the same time
As its name clearly says, the corporate-casual dress code is all about casual garments that can look neat and professional at the same time. And what does that mean? Well, it means that you can still wear a pair of casual denim jeans, as long as you combine it with a tidy T-shirt, a fitted blazer, or an elegant sweater. Skirts and dresses are also more than welcome, but make sure that these should be at a length at which you can sit comfortably in public. Mini-skirts, skorts, and spaghetti-strap dresses are inappropriate for work. As for men, dark denim is a great choice as well, and it can be matched with nice T-shirts or casual collared button-downs.
Primary colors and jewel tones are a good way to go
Speaking of the colors that are acceptable in the business environment, the corporate-casual dress code is all about the primary colors and jewel tones. This means that almost all shades of red, yellow, and blue are more than good for the office, but you know what? You should probably stay away from too bright shades that attract too much attention. Instead, pick more muted shades or even pastels which are pleasant to the eye and won’t attract unwanted attention. Soft pink, baby blue, pastel green, pale yellow, and gentle lavender are some of the most amazing shades to choose from, so you won’t make a mistake whichever you pick.
Comfy footwear is an absolute must
When it comes to footwear, there are several rules that should be followed, but don’t worry at all because these aren’t too strict. As for the types of shoes that are acceptable for work, there are loafers, boots, flats, and dress heels, as well as conservative athletic or walking shoes. You’ll be thrilled to hear that wearing stockings isn’t obligatory in the corporate-casual dress code – especially during the warm months. On the other hand, too bright and quirky athletic shoes, flip-flops, slippers, mules, strappy sandals, and other types of shoes that feature an open toe aren’t acceptable in the office – no matter how casual the dress code is.
Accessories are more than welcome
Last but certainly not least, wearing accessories is also more than welcome in the corporate-casual environment – as long as you aren’t going overboard with it, of course. Everything from tiny earrings and matching bracelets to larger drop earrings and chunkier bangles is okay, but you must remember that it’s more about how you wear it than what you wear. For example, adding a statement bangle to a monochromatic outfit is a great idea as it can complement the entire combo and take it to a whole new level. On the other hand, stacking a few such bangles while wearing a patterned dress may be seen as tacky, so bear that in mind and you won’t go wrong. As for your body piercings, these should probably be covered. The same goes for large-scale tattoos.
As you can see, there are a lot of important things you should know about the corporate-casual dress code and its rules. All you need to do is to stick to our tips and guidelines, and once that’s done, you’ll undoubtedly do a great job and come up with the best clothing combos appropriate for your first office job. That’s a promise!