Business and Business Casual Attire
When interviewing, it's always fundamental to dress professionally and to dress in your best business attire, regardless of the dress code of the organization.Dress Appropriately for Your Workplace
After you have accepted the job offer, you may be working in an environment where business casual or just plain casual is appropriate workplace attire. If you're not sure what you should wear, ask. There is no better way to make a bad impression than to show up for your first day of work standing out likes a sore thumb because you're not dressed correctly.Business Attire vs. Business Casual Attire
One reason that it's important to ask, is that you could have interviewed on a dress-down work day, so, don't assume that the way you see people dressed is how you should dress on the job. Another, is that business casual can mean different things to different employers. There is no strict definition of the phrase. In some cases, business casual attire means pressed khakis and a button-down long-sleeved shirt. To other companies, it might mean dress jeans and a polo shirt. In general, the following is appropriate attire for interviewing and for dressing in business casual.Business Attire for Interviews
Women
- Solid color, conservative suit with coordinated blouse, moderate shoes, tan or light pantyhose, limited jewelry
- Neat, professional hairstyle, manicured nails, light make-up, little or no perfume
- Portfolio or briefcase
Men
- Solid color, conservative suit, long sleeve shirt, conservative tie, dark socks, professional shoes
- Neat hairstyle, trimmed nails, little or no cologne or after shave
- Portfolio or briefcase
Business casual attire
Women
- Khaki, corduroy, twill or cotton pants or skirts, neatly pressed
- Sweaters, twinsets, cardigans, polo/knit shirts
- Solid colors work better than bright patterns
Men
- Khaki, gabardine or cotton pants, neatly pressed
- Cotton long-sleeved button-down shirts, pressed, polo shirts or knit shirts with a collar
- Sweaters
- Leather shoes and belt
- Tie optional
What not to wear
Regardless of gender, when the dress code is business casual it's not appropriate to wear your favorite old t-shirt, ripped jeans and antique sneakers. Keep in mind the "business" part of business casual, and leave your old comfortable clothes at home.Back: Cover Letters
