Business casual. Did I give you chills? I know that particular term can be so disconcerting for some people, and I’m here to tell you that it doesn’t need to be anymore!

No longer do you need to fear that awkward in-between, but you can confidently rock your business cas’ to whatever event for which it’s required. Alright, so you need to look put-together, but don’t want to come across too formal. Let’s opt for pants and a blouse over a dress, shall we? I typically lean towards a stretchy rayon pant in a neutral color. Whatever you do, don’t wear denim – especially if said business casual scenario is an interview. Just don’t do it. This light gray pair of pants allows for plenty of color combinations, but isn’t quite as stiff as black slacks may appear. And who said your pants must be wide-legged? Certainly not me (though if they’re more your style then by all means, go for it). I say try a slightly cropped skinny pant. Break the mold!

Next comes that blouse. This is when you dress it up a bit. Steer clear of vibrant patterns, and look for fun twists on classic structures instead. My adorable button-up is longer in the back than in the front, and comes with a cropped camisole to wear beneath the sheer outer material. This top has a boxier style to it, which lets my skin to breathe and also allows me to easily stay mobile, rather than being stuck in a rigidly tight top.

Last, but certainly not least, let’s talk accessories. I believe a watch is a crucial part of any biz casual ensemble. It eludes to order and maturity, and of course, these are qualities that everyone hopes to represent. I was grateful for the little pop of color my timepiece brought to the look. Also be sure to wear comfortable, lower-heeled shoes. I’d also suggest flats if you’re hoping to appear even more casual. I chose a pair of block heel sandals to complete the look!

So once you’ve put together an outfit composing of simply flattering (not denim) pants, with a quirky twist on a structured blouse, and comfortably basic accessories, you’re set! See? I told you business casual wasn’t scary!

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sarah lindner

6 years ago

I love this outfit! That top is to die for!
XOXO
Sarah Lindner
http://www.thehouseofsequins.com

Jessica

I am all about boxy tops at the moment too! They are so comfortable and cute!
xo Jessica
http://www.whatsfordinneresq.com

This is totally my kind of business attire. It’s sophisticated and professional but I know I wouldn’t feel stuffy wearing in it, which is how I always feel if I have to wear a traditional business look. Love your tips on creating the perfect business casual look.

xo, Jo
http://www.cutandchic.com

Ashley DTKAustin

What a cute outfit! I’m in love with those grey jeans with that top!

Emily

Confession: I think because my job means business casual is something that I never get to wear (elementary school teacher), the idea of dressing in a pencil skirt or with shoes with a little bit of heel sounds SO appealing to me. Love these shoes, and that price is crazy good! Also love your top, that’s got to be so versatile. I kind the looser fit of it, very appropriate for something such as an interview!
Emily
http://darlingdearestblog.com

Laura Leigh

That top is SO adorable! I love it lady!

xo Laura Leigh
http://www.louellareese.com

Lee Anne

Ah the dreaded business casual! Such a fine line, lol. You look so cute, babe!

XO
Lee Anne
http://www.lifebylee.com

Stefanie

these pictures, this location, that top… all amazing!! you make business casual look clean, sexy and classy! 🙂 xo

Makayla M.

This top is just too darn cute on you!!! I love it paired with those grey skinnies xo

Taylor Mobley

THANK YOU for breaking this down. I never know how to dress for business casual occasions. This outfit is definitely something I would wear. You look absolutely amazing.

Mariann Yip

I love VIPme! They have such great items to choose from and I also think they are geared toward business causal style but can also be worn for multiple occasions. I adore the sunglasses because it makes your outfit pop with the white top 🙂

Lauryn Hock

I LOVE that white blouse! I need one in my closet.

Julia Comil

I absolutely love your business casual look! Just perfect!

Sharon Wu

loving this business casual look babe! as someone who works from home full-time it’s fun to play dress-up every now and then without looking too formal haha. happy monday darling! xo, sharon

http://www.stylelullaby.com/fashion/one-piece-swimsuits-worth-tan-lines/
@stylelullaby

Christina

I love the Chloe bag! Do you like it? I have the Marcie but love yours too!

Morgan Lillian

I love that VIPme is all about empowering women. I could definitely get behind that brand!!

LE BLONDE

Love how you easily created this look and the twist on your sunnies!!

XOLB

Jordan Chapman

I’m loving the grey trousers!! They’re definitely something I could wear with confidence and you look amazing in them! This is an amazing look for work and you kill this look!
Jordan xx
http://thehatlogic.com

Maggie

I love this pretty top! Business casual is the best attire for the office!

Maggie
http://www.polishedclosets.com

Christine Kong

This is really a great business casual look. I love that you point out that denim is not that acceptable as business casual. I think living on the West Coast we tend to be more casual but denim is probably something you wear more for casual Fridays and not business casual. =) The low heel shoes and the watch are great accessories and definitely add a more professional vibe to the outfit. xoxo, Christine
http://dailykongfidence.com/

Tiffani at Breton Bay

Love this look for business casual!! The grey and white look so good together!! And loving those shoes at that price point 🙌🏻

xoxo
Tiffani
http://www.tiffaniatbretonbay.com

Yasmin

I love the hi-low length of that blouse. It’s so cute. I don’t wear business formal anymore now that I work in the creative industry, but business casual is sometimes called for with new clients and such. Thanks for the cute style inspo!

xx Yasmin
http://banglesandbungalows.com

Gracie

I love the VIPme blouse. It looks great with your skinny jeans. I am not ready to get into the business world to work but I could certainly would wear this anywhere.

Xxgracie

snappedbygracie.com

Candace

Business casual can definitely be tricky nowadays, especially with the newer generation and the variations on the styles we used to wear when we were younger. I’d definitely share your tips on how it should be done. I agree with everything you’ve named, including the actual outfit you put together. You can never go wrong with a nice pair of denim or heels 🙂

http://www.thebeautybeau.com

Emily Lunstroth

I’m so with you! I had a friend one time who told me she was going to wear jeans to an interview in the music industry and I freaked and was like NOOO jeans ever!!!!

cocorosa

Gorgeous outfit babe! Loving your shoes so much! xoxo

Lauren

Business casual is the biggest struggle I swear! I love this look and I’ve been doing a lot of block heels with my business casual looks recently. That blouse is also super flattering on you too 🙂

Xx,

Lauren // http://www.mylifeaslaurr.com

Iliana

Okay there are a lot of reasons why I love this look! First, it’s super, easy rash and adorable. Second, I would so see myself wearing this. Third, it’s perfect for Friday casual at work. Lastly we get a few bucks off, I mean it can’t get any better than? I’m totally buying that blouse 🙂

Xx
Iliana | http://www.sophisticatedfashionista.com

Bella

You look flawless! I love those shoes they are to die for!