Relaxed Business Attire Principle #1: Use Caution!

"Business Casual":  How to Make It Work For You

Your image is one of the most important contributing factors in business. When it comes to ‘business casual,’ so many people get it so wrong. According to a June, 2008 CareerBuilder.com survey of nearly 2,800 U.S. companies, 35% of employers have sent home an “inappropriately dressed” worker.

You'll notice that I use the term "Relaxed Business" instead of "Business Casual."  There is nothing casual about business!  What does business casual actually mean? There are a variety of definitions, given that business casual is somewhere between formal business wear and street wear.  How do you navigate these confusing waters?

Everyone’s workplace is different and different regions have different practices. Not every business or office is the same, and dress code policies vary across the board. Business casual can also be defined differently across different industries. Get informed about company policies, and know what is “not okay” for your workplace. If you have any uncertainty, look to your supervisor or HR Department for clarification. Still, you do not just want to meet the standards of dress for your company – you want to exceed them.

The following blogs will contain a series of image principles to help you know when and  whether relaxed business attire is right for you and to help you know how to best integrate this style of dressing into your wardrobe.

Principle #1:  Don’t Be Too Casual

Some obvious clothing pieces should always be left at home. These include flip-flops, cut-offs, shorts and ripped or intentionally torn garments or beachwear. Decide to forgo any garment that is too tight or way too baggy.  Remember:  you are conducting business, not recreating or socializing or sleeping!