Blog Post

Dress Codes

Barbara Cosgrave
Dress code blog

I recently went to an evening occasion where the dress code on the invitation was "smart casual. One of the least understood dress codes is smart casual. As a result, people turned up to a nice evening event wearing anything from jeans and a top/polo shirt to a suit and tie/cocktail dress. Most of the guests interpreted smart casual as casual. It is anything but!


Time, I thought, to clear this conundrum once and for all. Below is the definitive checklist for dress codes.

Let's explore the ones that relate to our day-to-day working life in more depth. Business and business casual (in your social life, this one also translates to smart casual). Casual and Ultra Casual should never be worn to work unless it is part of your profession, sports, for example. Not even on dress-down Friday – ever!


 

 1. Business Dress


Business Dress is the look worn in professional environments.  It's the uniform of lawyers, bankers, professors, and other business environments where decorum and professionalism are woven into the culture and fabric of the organization.  The first and vital step to mastering this look is to know your environment. Most businesses expect employees to understand that the dress code is professional business attire.


When a person is dressed in professional business attire, they are silently communicating their professionalism and level of business skills. There is a high level of respect that comes with this look.  Business dress is a formal dress code for many offices and corporate events.  It denotes a professional style of dress that appears smart and sophisticated.  Whereas for men, a suit is generally required.  On the other hand, women can interpret business attire in a range of ways.  While trouser suits and skirt suits are ideal, polished separates and business dresses can also work well.



Business style example images


2. Business Casual/Smart Casual


If you are unsure how to dress for a job in a creative industry, teaching or dress down Friday if your company endorses that, then this may well be what you're looking for.  It is also the look for social engagements that specify smart casual.


Business casual is precisely what is implied in the name. It's a casual look made for the professional environment.  Just because this look is more comfortable, it's still supposed to illustrate a high level of professionalism.  Business casual still has to mean quality clothing, not weekend wear.  The workplace environment is everything when it comes to professional attire so make sure that your version of business casual is in line with the office's culture.


It is a somewhat relaxed office wear style, but it must be appropriate.  It is never revealing, strappy tops, too short or too tight, ladies.  Never polo shirts or jeans, gentlemen.  It is often called upon for contemporary places of work along with "casual Fridays" in more conservative offices.


smart casual looks for women
male smart casual looks

If in doubt, always check the culture of the company or industry in which your work.  The same goes for meetings in different venues; check the dress code, especially if you are presenting.  Remember you are your own best advert and need to be appropriate every time.

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