Decoding Your Office Dresscode
A few weeks ago I shared a post on Back to the Office Dressing. This was primarily geared towards Bay Area tech companies that have recently announced their return to in-office work. This week, I want to share some options for my non-Bay Area clients. But first, let’s break down different office dresscodes and what they mean.
The Casual Office
Some offices have a pretty lax dress code, enabling a more casual everyday wear. To some, this means jeans, tee shirts, and hoodies. Sure, you can do that, but you know I love a good elevated look to help you look polished and be taken seriously. This means nicer tops, no casual hoodies, jeans without rips. Try adding a modern blazer to complete the look. Sandals, sneakers, etc should all be in good clean condition to keep up the polished appearance but you can definitely have fun with colors and styles! I would not advise sweatpants, joggers, or leggings for any office, even the casual one. If you want comfortable, opt for trying a “workleisure” pant, like the Marine Layer Allison Pant.
The Smart Casual Office
This is a casual office, but with general basics and one element of both “smart” and “casual”. You can do trousers or dark jeans, a blouse but not likely a tee shirt, and then add something like sneakers and a blazer, heels and a more casual cardigan, etc. The Key here is about elevated balance. If you want to wear a dress, you can do flats or clean sneakers only, topped with a blazer or cardigan as well. Smart, chic sandals in good condition should be fine but double check with HR. With this dress code you can tend to have a bit more fun with trend-forward pieces and statement prints. Amour Vert, Quince, J.Crew, Everlane are some great brands for you.
The Business Casual Office
Ditch the jeans for this look unless it’s “casual Friday”! Business casual offices mean trousers, skirts, and dresses. Blouses are a must, never a tee shirt or casual shirt. Smart crisp cardigans and tailored blazers, though you may be able to get away with a more modern oversized style. Sneakers are never to be worn in a business casual office, nor are any open toe shoes. Stick to classic flats or heels. Keep the animal prints at home unless they’re on the subtle side. Depending on your budget and style, some go-to brands could be Ann Taylor, J.Crew, Veronica Beard, and Vince.
The Business Formal Office
Ah, we’ve made it to the most formal of office attires. If you’re office falls into this category you’re likely in finance or legal and the office is very serious. Stick to muted, minimalist colors and fits. Heels are almost a requirement, but flats may suffice in terms of comfort. Avoid going overtly trendy or ostentatious with your looks in lieu of quintessential classics - suit sets, tweeds, well fitting blazers, crisp silk blouses. Now, this may sound stifling-ly boring to some of you and you may be wondering where to show pizazz. I recommend accessories and outerwear as your statement piece, but again, nothing too wild. Brands to pay attention to include Theory, MM LaFleur, etc.
