Business Casual vs Business Formal

Clothing is a big deal and might have major impact on how you are perceived depending on where you work. So lets go through some definitions of

The Standards

The standard business formal wear is a full matching business suit, including a jacket and dress pants, skirt, or dress. The darker the suit, the more formal it is. Torn, wrinkled, or unmatched clothing is unacceptable.

Business professional attire is a cross between business formal and business casual. Instead of wearing a full business suit, it’s common to wear dress pants and a collared shirt or blouse without a jacket or tie.

BUSINESS CASUAL FOR MEN

Business professional attire may include dress pants with a button-up collared shirt or sports jacket, matching suit with no tie, or dress pants and a collared shirt and tie.

BUSINESS CASUAL FOR WOMEN

Dress pants, skirt, or dress with a non-matching jacket is recommended business professional attire for women. Skirts and dresses should always sit at or just above the knee. A collared blouse or dress material top is recommended and should either be tucked in or fall just below your waistline.

BUSINESS FORMAL FOR MEN

In addition to matching pants and jacket, men should wear a button-up collared shirt, paired with a tie. Refrain from bold and bright colors or patterns in dress shirts. Choose a tie with colors and tones that match your suit and dress shirt.

BUSINESS FORMAL FOR WOMEN

Dress pants or skirt with a matching jacket is considered business formal for women. Skirts should always sit at or just above the knee. A blouse or dress material top is recommended and should either be tucked in or fall just below your waistline.