We are back with Andi Moisescu, Brand Ambassador Tudor Tailor, and Adrian Belbe, Fashion Advisor, in a new episode of the Dress Codes series in which we will discuss what the Business Casual dress code means. If in the last episode we discussed the specific look for ceremonial attire , we continue with a discussion about business formal and business casual attire for men .
You've probably missed putting on a tailored business outfit, feeling like yourself and being #backtobusiness fresher than ever. This episode comes in response to our preparations to return to the office and relax after work, in a business casual outfit.
Together with Andi Moisescu, we show step by step how to adapt business casual attire for men during the summer, when we need light materials that maintain their quality, as well as which business casual styles you can adopt with confidence and charm, through the right accessories.
Men's business casual style offers the greatest freedom, because we no longer have restrictions. The only rule is to get a nice image .
How did the business casual concept emerge in men's fashion?
The history of this men's style is a very interesting one.
The gentleman of the last century was forced to adopt a very conservative and uncomfortable style: either a day outfit or an evening outfit consisting of a semi-formal suit, with a coat, an elegant men's vest and striped trousers. The only acceptable casual option was a tweed suit, for walks in the city.
Until the 1960s, when a Hawaiian shirt company launched the concept of Aloha Fridays - soon, all local companies allowed employees to wear shirts full of colors and exotic prints, without a tie and buttoned up.
What started as a local cultural trend has become a new office dress code in corporate environments everywhere: business casual . A less formal, more relaxed and daring dress code for gentlemen employed in small and large companies alike.
It wasn't long before items specific to business casual attire emerged that still respected professionalism. The famous brand Levis launched khaki pants (Dockers) after clients in upper management positions complained that their employees were dressing too casually.
Business casual attire has thus become the new dress code in the international professional environment, accepted by senior management among employees and worn with enthusiasm and creativity by modern gentlemen.
What does business casual style mean for the modern man?
Business casual attire consists of a jacket and trousers, usually made of different fabrics. Of course, sometimes you can also have a casual outfit consisting of a suit, but with a much lighter jacket. To make a classy distinction, business casual attire means only a suit. In business casual attire, we are not talking about a suit, but about a professional but relaxed look, which can be achieved through a variety of successful combinations.
In business casual outfits, we can have a slightly more elegant, more formal version, for a casual Friday in a top management, where we have the classic blazer – the navy blue jacket with metallic, silver or gold buttons, with which you can wear gray pants. We are not talking about a business office suit, but it is the more elegant business casual version, explains Adrian Belbe, Fashion Advisor Tudor Tailor.
In the business casual approach, we are no longer talking about neutral colors and a restrictive look, but about making a pleasant impression and bringing a modern breath by wearing quality pieces, in various refreshing but smart combinations - from navy shades or classic beiges, to strong colors like orange, pink and purple.
Just be careful how you combine them with balance to avoid an unsightly look. You can also focus on men's outfits. all-season, transitional, which keeps the look stylish, nonconformist and relaxed in any season.
What does business casual attire consist of?
Your wardrobe should not be missing casual blazers and jackets in plain or checked or striped patterns, chinos or casual pants tailored to your size, shirts and polo shirts, classic but casual shoes like Loafers, Oxfords or Derbys .
As for accessories , they are much more permissive than in the case of formal or very elegant outfits: colorful handkerchiefs with interesting patterns, bold ties (although they are optional), even socks in unusual colors and patterns.
Important: if you are not sure about the appropriate business casual attire, it is recommended to dress more elegantly than more casually. You won't go wrong with a tailored jacket in dark shades, a simple white shirt, plain pants in a lighter shade than the jacket, and brown leather shoes when you want to impress in an office meeting or with clients.
1. Casual blazers and jackets in bold shades
If in the case of formal business attire we are talking about maximum simplicity, with navy blue or petrol gray suits without stripes, checks or patterns, in casual business attire you have much greater freedom and creativity.
If you want a more relaxed yet elegant look, there are a variety of casual jackets for men that can be worn with a simple shirt and a pair of chinos. They will quickly become your favorites.
In business casual, you have a plain part, usually the trousers, and, on top, a checked or striped jacket. You can also choose the opposite, but rarely, if you want a more Italian, more relaxed look. Most of the time, the jacket will have a more special texture or a certain pattern.
When it comes to color, we're not talking about dark and sober colors anymore, but about bright and bold shades, often beautifully combined, such as emerald and turquoise, stronger and summery shades of blue, orange and peach, garnet and burgundy. These go perfectly with complementary shades in the area of pants and accessories, for a trendy look.
Elegance doesn't just mean a tailored suit. It emanates through lightweight yet smart premium materials, versatile patterns and the small details that make the difference for a relaxed gentleman's look. In the Tudor Tailor range, we offer you casual jackets for men , made of comfortable fabrics for the cold season as well as for the summer, light and comfortable, which sit beautifully on the body.
If you've been longing to wear something unique and special that makes you feel great, now is the time to do it. Customize your jacket to be tailored to your measurements and to your taste: you can choose the lapel, the shape of the pockets, the number of buttons and the lining.
Choose a classic model or one that conveys boldness and good taste, from the jacket collection made to measure Tudor Tailor
2. Business casual pants: khaki or chinos?
One of the big differences from formal style is the type of pants. We no longer have suit pants, but versatile pieces of clothing, full of color or easy to match in a business casual look, made of durable fabrics and suitable for long days at the office.
In business casual attire, you can wear plain pants or the famous chinos , specially designed for this relaxed office style. They are versatile and comfortable and are part of a gentleman's summer wardrobe.
Khaki pants are sometimes confused with chinos. Even though they are more stylish than jeans, khakis are appropriate for casual wear, not office wear - certainly not in law firms, respectable institutions, banks, etc.
If you want a more relaxed business casual look, choose a pair of pants that are made of cotton or linen. This way, even after long wear, because they will wrinkle more quickly, they will have a relaxed look. Wrinkling is not a problem, especially in casual wear.
For the cold season, you can opt for comfortable, durable, yet lightweight flannel pants . (made of wool), which goes great with a casual jacket or a sweater with a shirt.
Go for neutral or complementary shades when choosing casual pants (lighter or darker than the jacket color), never the same as the jacket, and in a single color if the jacket is more stylized and bold.
Jeans They are also accepted in gentlemanly attire, especially in entrepreneurial, startup, and tech environments. But with so many comfortable and stylish options when it comes to business casual pants, you don't have to worry.
Pants that are too baggy, too tight, or too long will give the impression of a sloppy look. Look flawless in the easiest way possible by wearing a casual pair tailored specifically to your size.
3. Casual shirts in pastel shades and unique designs
Although it is more representative of the casual style, the t-shirt is starting to be allowed under the jacket in a relaxed business outfit, even with a linen suit. The t-shirt should always be white or plain, to keep you in the office zone.
If you want a safer choice for your professional clothing style, the shirt remains a very comfortable and inspired option , which always looks good with chinos, jeans, or even wool pants.
If you're wondering how to wear shirts, it's important to keep a few tips in mind:
- Short shirts, Hawaiian or traditional Cuban shirts, and T-shirts look good over pants in a casual style, but they are not appropriate in a business or elegant environment. Therefore, not even in business casual.
- Elegant shirts and those worn with a sweater in business casual attire, with long sleeves and even lumberjack style , have the bottom specially made to be tucked into pants, for a presentable and neat look .
- Some shirts can be worn tucked in with the front hem tucked into the pants, not the back. It's a casual and cool look, but it's not suitable for professional attire.
It is recommended to have simple plain shirts in your wardrobe, white or in pastel colors of gray, blue, peach, lilac and pink, as well as more interesting patterns, in stripes and plaids. Don't forget to choose models tailored to your size to look harmonious.
The striped shirt works well in both business and casual settings. Normally, stripes, especially on a suit, convey the idea of a classic business outfit. The same goes for a shirt, if they are discreet, but it would be better to keep the suit plain and simple.
The most popular choices in business casual shirts They are button down, Oxford type, but generally made of quality and durable materials such as 100% cotton, which do not allow for unpleasant transparencies.
You can be more creative, but we are already talking about an expert level, because you have to choose them very well and carefully. You can call on fashion advisors to help you highlight your personal style, recommends Adrian Belbe, Fashion Advisor Tudor Tailor.
At Tudor Tailor, you can customize your shirts in terms of buttons, material, and pattern, so that they reflect your professional and stylish image in every detail. Choose your favorite shirts here .
4. Classic and casual shoes: Choose Loafers, Oxfords and Derbys
The most popular types of shoes for business casual are loafers , derbies and oxfords, without buckles. They are stylish, but at the same time offer maximum comfort and are easy to wear every day, in the office.
A suede shoe, depending on its construction, can be elegant. But you can also choose something between elegant and casual – the loafer model is more relaxed, in addition to the classic oxford.
In addition, leather loafers are perfect for accessorizing spring-summer outfits; you can choose suede ones for a more relaxed look that still retains its elegance.
If you prefer a more classic and elegant style, you can go safe with a pair of Derby shoes , intended to complete your tasteful image in more formal meetings. They are a type of business casual footwear that is very comfortable and has a charming masculine design.
The same goes for men's Oxford brogue shoes , which are very versatile. They are suitable for business attire and formal events, but also for a more elegant casual look, with which you will definitely impress.
Choose to return to the office more prepared than ever, with a pair of Tudor Tailor shoes customized down to the smallest detail.
5. Business casual outfit accessories: keep the handkerchief and ditch the tie
Tie
When choosing a business casual outfit, it usually means leaving the second top button of your shirt unbuttoned. Therefore, you don't need a tie.
Usually, we don't wear a tie in business casual attire. That's not wrong, it's an additional element that can make the outfit more elegant and beautiful. But if you choose not to wear a tie, it will definitely send the desired message: of confidence and relaxation.
Pocket handkerchief
A handkerchief should always be present with a jacket. If for a businessman's formal attire, the handkerchief should be worn impeccably, in line, white and discreet, for the business casual style it should be part of a natural, but professional look.
The handkerchief can easily fit into your pocket, so it doesn't look like you're trying too hard – that's the idea behind the business casual look. It's a relaxed look, you can just lay it down naturally and leave it there.
Also, choosing a handkerchief is strictly about your personality, as well as your overall outfit - it can be the element of surprise that takes a look out of anonymity, so don't be shy about choosing handkerchiefs in eccentric and colorful patterns , in different shades that complement your outfit, for a splash of color and nonconformity.
Socks
When it comes to business casual attire, there is a simple recommendation: wear socks when it's cold, but not when it's hot. Contrary to stereotypes, a summer outfit, made of light and pleasant materials, does not look good with socks, advise Andi and Adrian.
What's more important is to match this accessory with the shoes you're wearing and the fabrics your business outfit is made of.
Materials like wool or cashmere don't go well with loafers without socks. You can wear a suede shoe, but you have to wear socks. On the other hand, if it's 30 degrees outside, socks seem like a forced element in the created ensemble.
You can wear socks with flowers, polka dots or other patterns. The most important thing in a business casual outfit that gives you a professional look, but also comfort, is to have a pleasant image - a more unconventional detail like colored socks is enough, but not too many extravagant accessories.
Bag or backpack, in business casual attire?
We are on the border between business elegance and casual ease, therefore the ideal bag for business casual attire is stylish and functional.
Wherever you work, you need to carry your laptop, phone, important documents, and other things you need every day, in a roomy bag, but with an elegant look regardless of the occasion.
But needs also differ from gentleman to gentleman: whether you bike to the office, want to make a good impression among other executives, need to travel often, or want to be able to transition from a conference straight to Crossfit training in style, here are some tips:
- A men's business bag must have secure compartments adapted to the needs of the modern, always connected man.
- Opt for shoulder bags that have removable shoulder straps to carry them comfortably in your hand.
- Go for leather bags to be sure you enjoy superior quality and durability.
- Business casual bags come in different colors and combinations, from burgundy, red, navy or marine blue, to safe shades of brown, gray or black. The only rule is to choose a smart and simple model
- A travel bag is essential for those who travel for business. Choose a leather model that is durable, functional and has a classic masculine design.
- Although the backpack seems like a good choice for gentlemen who are always on the go and connected to everything that's happening, it's too casual a type of bag.
Discover our collection of men's bags, created to British standards , to complete a business casual outfit with style!
Examples of business casual outfits, depending on the professional environment
Business casual is a flexible dress code that varies from one organizational culture to another. Therefore, the right men's attire for you at the office depends on the standards of the environment in which you work.
You are certainly already very familiar with the dress code followed in the company, but We've also prepared some stylish sources of inspiration for you, to help you complete your wardrobe with business-casual pieces in three different styles:
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Upscale business casual attire, for “The Executive”
If you work in executive roles in traditional fields, where you come into contact with numerous important people, your business casual attire should aim for the most elegant image possible and attention to all details.
Here are some examples of business casual attire suitable for an upscale environment.
Tudor Tailor tips:
Opt for a casual blazer or jacket in dark shades , classic masculine regardless of the season. Petrol gray and navy blue are classic, but convey a strong professional image. You can choose a jacket with two rows of buttons.
The appropriate shirt is a cotton one , in shades of white, blue or pastel, which does not allow transparency. and a tie is not mandatory. However, for more formal meetings and meetings with managers, you can accessorize with an elegant tie.
Avoid wearing jeans, are totally inappropriate in this context. If you want to make a good professional impression, choose smart trousers or chinos in discreet shades of blue, gray, beige. Ideally, maintain a nice contrast between the shade of the jacket and that of the trousers.
For the cold season, you can choose to wear a men's vest that exudes elegance in a business casual outfit, along with a relaxed white shirt. At Tudor Tailor, you have at your disposal Vests created from traditional, functional and versatile fabrics for an extra touch of style.
When it comes to shoes, you have more freedom in choosing colors, at least. Wear a pair of monk shoes , loafers , or customized chelsea boots in bolder colors like brown or burgundy, depending on the season.
Keep getting inspired: Discover more upscale business casual outfits in the Tudor Tailor collection.
Smart business casual outfit for “The Manager”
If you spend more time at the office, without too many meetings in the city or business trips, you can adopt a relaxed professional image without a jacket. A vest , for example, can be an inspired choice in this case, or a more stylish blazer.
When it comes to shirts, button-downs are recommended because they are comfortable and look good, as are polo shirts or simple sweaters over a shirt , depending on the season, if the environment you work in allows this dress code. In this case, you don't necessarily need a tie.
The most suitable pants remain chinos in dark colors like gray or navy blue in the cold season, and discreet pastels in the summer.
Classic and versatile leather shoes remain a welcome choice, even in this case.
Keep getting inspired: Discover more smart business casual outfits in the Tudor Tailor collection.
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Relaxed business casual outfit for “The Entrepreneur”
When it comes to the startup and entrepreneurial environment, office attire is very permissive and there is no dress code. However, a presentable and smart image is required, which you can achieve by wearing polo shirts, as well as plain or interestingly patterned shirts, without a tie.
Many young gentlemen in the startup scene prefer jeans, but it's equally inspiring to opt for chinos in more unexpected and bold, modern shades, matched with casual jackets.
When it comes to business casual footwear in the entrepreneurial environment, you can enjoy the comfort of loafers or moccasins, or casual leather shoes.
Keep getting inspired: Discover more relaxed business casual outfits in the Tudor Tailor collection.
Styling mistakes in business casual attire
Together with Andi Moisescu, we also talked live about the styling mistakes that can creep into business casual outfits. Here's how we accessorize ourselves in tune with different business contexts or after hours, following a few guidelines, so that we always make a pleasant appearance:
- Casual attire with a button-down shirt is forced. Button-downs require a double-cuff shirt, although there is also a simple version, but they imply a style that is far too elegant.
- Button-downs also require wearing a tie, and this image does not correspond to the business casual style.
- If you are going to have a dark suit, you should have a dark colored shoe - the same for the light shade (to be respected in both areas).
- It's not wrong to wear dark shoes with a light-colored suit, but never the other way around.
- Successful business casual attire does not refer to T-shirts or sweaters worn with faded, torn or loose jeans, nor to sneakers.
- The tie with a linen outfit is exaggerated, because this material is specific to summer events and meetings, more unconventional, relaxed and casual.
- You should never have a pocket square made of the same material and color as your tie.
- Socks don't necessarily have to match your pants, because it will look like you're following a strict rule from a classic business outfit.