— Dressing guide · Updated June 2026
Business casual attire
Business casual is the most ambiguous dress code there is — it means professional but not full suit-and-tie, and every workplace draws the line slightly differently. The safe interpretation: collared shirts, chinos or smart trousers, knitwear, loafers — polished, neat, and a clear step up from weekend clothes.
The rule
Professional but not a full suit. Collared shirts, chinos/smart trousers, knitwear, leather shoes.
For men
- ·Chinos or smart trousers + a collared shirt or fine knit; a blazer optional.
- ·Loafers, Derbies or clean minimal leather shoes.
- ·No tie required; keep it crisp and well-fitted.
For women
- ·Tailored trousers or a skirt + a blouse or knit; a blazer optional.
- ·Smart flats, loafers or low heels.
- ·Polished but comfortable; nothing too casual or too formal.
Do
- Keep it neat, fitted and put-together.
- Default to chinos + collar + leather shoes.
- Read your specific workplace's norms.
Don't
- Don't wear jeans, trainers, t-shirts or shorts (unless your office truly allows it).
- Don't wear a full formal suit and tie.
- Don't go wrinkled or sloppy.
Put the outfit together
Build a capsule you can pull this look from, or try a piece on your own photo first.
Frequently asked questions
Business casual attire?
Business casual is the most ambiguous dress code there is — it means professional but not full suit-and-tie, and every workplace draws the line slightly differently. The safe interpretation: collared shirts, chinos or smart trousers, knitwear, loafers — polished, neat, and a clear step up from weekend clothes. The rule of thumb: Professional but not a full suit. Collared shirts, chinos/smart trousers, knitwear, leather shoes.
What should men wear?
Chinos or smart trousers + a collared shirt or fine knit; a blazer optional. Loafers, Derbies or clean minimal leather shoes. No tie required; keep it crisp and well-fitted.
What should women wear?
Tailored trousers or a skirt + a blouse or knit; a blazer optional. Smart flats, loafers or low heels. Polished but comfortable; nothing too casual or too formal.
What should you avoid?
Don't wear jeans, trainers, t-shirts or shorts (unless your office truly allows it). Don't wear a full formal suit and tie. Don't go wrinkled or sloppy.