Dressing appropriately for work is of utmost importance as it allows you to fit in within the workplace and make a positive impression for your co-workers and supervisors. What to wear to work is always a pressing question for those who are beginning their first graduate position or program as a dress code can vary from company to company. This feeling of confusion and uncertainty is heightened when a business, company, or organisation requires employees to follow a casual dress code. How casual is a casual dress code? What type of clothing attire is appropriate? Is it acceptable to accessorise your outfits? This article will provide advice on how to appropriately abide by a casual dress code so that you can ensure that your attire is suitable for the workplace.
What is a casual dress code?
On the scale of business wear, business casual, and casual, a casual dress code is the least formal requirement of clothing in the workplace. It therefore means that you can wear less formal clothes to work, such as those that are more comfortable and typical for people to wear in their day-to-day lives. So, while you might not be required to wear a suit and tie, this doesn’t necessarily mean getting to wear pyjamas or sweatpants to work!
How to follow a casual dress code?
If this is your first time working for a company that requires a casual dress code, you may feel uncertain on how to approach your work attire so that it is both comfortable and appropriate for the workplace. Here are some tips to follow when deciding on what to wear:
Ensure your clothing is simple
You should aim to wear clothing that is simple, subtle, and understated. This means refraining from wearing bright colours or extravagant designs as this can easily make you look unprofessional. Some colour and basic designs are of course acceptable, and will be more effective in making you appear sophisticated.
See what your colleagues are wearing
You can always compare your work attire during your first few days with what your co-workers are wearing. Assess the designs that they wear, the style of clothing, and how formal it is. This will give you a good sense of what is appropriate and in line with the company culture.
High-quality attire
It is worthwhile investing in several high quality clothing items that you can wear on rotation into the workplace. High-quality attire appears more professional. It is also likely to last longer and prevent tears, thinning or holes developing in the fabric.
Clean and Ironed
Ensure that your clothing is both cleaned and ironed. Regardless of what you wear, this will make you appear more professional and put together.
What is appropriate casual attire?
A casual dress code allows you to wear clothing that is more relaxed to work. While what is deemed appropriate attire is entirely dependent on the company, here is a list of items that fit within the casual dress category.
Tops:
- Blouses
- Button Down Shirts
- Polo Shirts
- Henley Shirts
Bottoms:
- Jeans
- Pants
- Mid-length or maxi skirts
- Trousers
- Chinos
Outerwear:
- Pullover jumpers
- Jumpers
- Suit Jacket
- Coat
- Cardigan
- Jacket
- Sweater
Accessories:
- Simple jewellery (rings, earrings, necklaces)
- Belts
- Watches
- Scarves
Footwear:
- Boots
- Flats
- Oxford shoes
- Kitten Heels
What is inappropriate casual attire?
While you should aim to be comfortable and relaxed in your clothing selections, a level of decorum and courtesy should be extended to your fellow co-workers. This means refraining from wearing anything that may make someone uncomfortable or may be deemed inappropriate for a professional working environment. For example, something overly revealing or a top with a potentially offensive slogan or political messaging will typically be considered inappropriate. The status of an item of clothing as appropriate or inappropriate will ultimately depend on the company’s culture and policies. You can always consult with your employer if you are unsure.