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The guide to business casual attire for men.

As the workplace norm continues to evolve and become increasingly progressive, so do the dress codes associated with at-work attire. We've seen the insurgence of the business casual concept for men’s work attire grow tenfold In recent years, introducing a loosening of previously stringent dress code expectations.

This convention provides a more liberating take on the once stiff suit and tie presentation and allows for more colour, contrast, and comfort.

Though for many, what to wear for a business casual occasion remains incredibly elusive and shrouded in doubt. Why? Because by nature, the attire lacks clearly defined rules and principles so can therefore be left open to interpretation.

It is no surprise that many are stumped at what really constitutes business casual attire for men in 2021.

What is business casual dress for men?

If you are in search of a solid definition, the closest available will describe business casual as a style of dress that is a step less formal than traditional corporate wear but is still intended for a professional aesthetic presentation.

By nature, this leaves an abundance of room for interpretation – particularly considering the inclusion of the word “casual”. This may be considered somewhat misleading in its context, noting that the connotations of such a notion may be in keeping with shorts, singlets, and sandals slapped on for a Sunday BBQ.

On the contrary, business casual as a dress code places considerably more emphasis on the “business” aspect than the “casual”. While a classic business professional outfit would include a crisp oxford shirt and dress shoes, business casual is far more nuanced.

As a rule of thumb, a well-tailored blazer will provide much versatility in use as part of your business casual wardrobe.

Similarly, dress shirts are also able to transfer from your corporate looks to business casual styles, it will simply come down to how it is styled and paired with elements that dress it down while keeping its overall sophistication.

One item that can remain at home in this day and age is your beloved tie. Love them or hate them, a tie does provide more of a formal touch and is, today, reserved for boardrooms and meetings.

A business casual dress code also awards you the opportunity to experiment with different colours, textures, and patterns.

For traditional workwear classic block-tones of black, charcoal, grey, and navy reigned supreme and allowed for little creative licence.

Take this modern attire as an opportunity to showcase some personality through non-traditional colourings such as dark greens, burgundies, and light blues.

You can even consider a tweed jacket or cord style to elevate your overall look during the cooler months.

Business casual jackets for men

A business casual dress code allows for a touch more variety in your clothing repertoire when It comes to dressing for work. An accomplished business casual closet would likely include several blazers, sports coats, and knits.

Alongside the concept of business casual blazers comes the opportunity for statement splashes of colour, textures, and prints.

When donning colours, stray from classic blacks and greys and explore earth and autumn toned pieces. Maroon, emerald, and brown blazers are ideal staples for your wardrobe that can be paired with a crisp white button up shirt and chinos to keep the blazer as the focal piece.

Textures that can add depth to your look include cord jackets, tweed jackets, and even velvet blazers.

For a less conspicuous focal point you can instead play with blazers that have striped or check patterns.

When selecting your knitwear, fine merino wool sweaters are the ideal addition to your wardrobe for layering during the colder months. They can be placed over the top of a collared shirt as a smart looking outfit sans blazer.