Casual Attire Typically includes a combination of dress shirts, dress pants or chinos, and loafers or dress shoes. Ties are optional, and jackets can be more relaxed. We’ll explore different strategies for achieving this, with suggestions for pairings, fabrics, colors, and accessories.
Understanding the work environment
Before choosing what to wear, it is essential to have a clear idea of the work environment. Some offices have a very strict dress code, while others are more flexible. If you work in an office with a rather formal dress code, you will need to be more cautious about introducing casual elements. On the other hand, if your office has a more relaxed atmosphere, you will have more freedom of choice.
The Foundation: Knitwear & T-Shirts/Casual Office Outfits for Men
Cashmere sweaters
Cashmere sweaters are a great choice for cool days. The colors mouse gray, beige and navy blue are particularly versatile and can be paired with a variety of other pieces. A gray cashmere sweater looks elegant when paired with an unbuttoned white shirt and a light jacket . This combination is perfect for a business meeting or a casual get-together.
Cotton T-shirt
The cotton t-shirt is the foundation of any casual outfit. White, black and pastel colors are the safest and most versatile choices. It can be worn in a variety of ways: under a blazer for a more formal look, or with a pair of jeans for a more casual look. To add a pop of color and style, try pairing a cotton t-shirt with a colorful blazer. This will allow you to maintain a professional appearance, but with a hint of personality.
V-neck polo
The V-neck polo is a piece that combines the refined with the informal. Key colors such as royal blue or pale pink, paired with light jeans, create a stylish and office-appropriate look. This type of polo is perfect for a work day where you want to look casual, but also clean and organized. It is an ideal choice for a meeting with clients or a meeting with the work team.
Office Jackets & Coats/ Casual Office Men's Jacket
Lightweight Blazer
Classic model
The charcoal gray blazer is a classic piece that is a must-have in the office closet. Paired with dark jeans and loafers, it creates a smart and professional look. A lightweight linen or cotton blazer in a neutral color can be worn if necessary. A lightweight jacket, such as a denim jacket or a light leather jacket, can add a touch of casualness.
Trendy version
For a more modern and trendy look, try the pastel blue blazer. Paired with a white shirt and white sneakers, this blazer adds a pop of color and style to the outfit. It's a great choice for offices with a more casual dress code, or for days when you want to express your personality through your clothing. A denim jacket or a lightweight wool cardigan can be worn if necessary. A destroyed denim jacket , in a neutral color, can add a touch of casualness. A lightweight wool cardigan, in a pastel color, is a great piece to keep warm in an air-conditioned office.
Leather jacket
The leather jacket is a piece that gives an urban and sophisticated look. The black or light brown versions pair very well with skinny jeans and men's boots. This combination is perfect for work evenings or for occasions where you want to look fashionable and current. However, it is important to remember not to overdo it with the too much casual look, especially in offices with a more rigid dress code.
Long coat
Investing in a trendy long coat is a wise choice. The beige trench coat or the cocoa-colored parka are two examples of coats that can be worn elegantly to the office. The beige trench coat , in particular, is a classic piece that adapts very well to any style and any occasion. It is perfect for days when there is a little rain or wind, and can be paired with a variety of other pieces, such as jeans, pants or skirts.
Shirts and Polos: Cotton or silk shirts, in neutral colors or with a subtle pattern, are a good choice. Short-sleeved shirts can be cooler and more comfortable for summer. Good quality cotton polos are a good option in less formal settings.
Trousers and Skirts for Work/Office Overalls
Jeans
Skinny or straight fit jeans with cuffs are two styles that are well suited to the office. The skinny fit is more fashionable and suitable for a more modern look, while the straight fit is more classic and versatile. The colors black, dark blue and light gray are the safest choices and can be paired with a variety of sweaters, shirts and jackets. A polo shirt, jeans and a sports jacket create a casual but also professional look.
Tracksuit
The tracksuit is a choice for offices with a very relaxed dress code. However, to make it appropriate for the office, it is important to choose a black stretch tracksuit and pair it with an oversized sweater and running shoes. This combination creates a casual and comfortable look, but also sophisticated and fashionable. It is a perfect choice for days when you want to be comfortable, but also presentable.
Midi skirts
Midi skirts are a feminine piece that adds a touch of elegance to the outfit. The pencil, wool or denim options are especially suitable for the office. When paired with boots, they create a sophisticated and professional look. It is a perfect choice for meetings with female clients or for business evenings where you want to look elegant and fashionable.
Blouses and tops
Blouses in cotton or silk , with details such as embroidery, lace or ribbons, are perfect for the office. A short-sleeved top in a light fabric, with a simple or polka-dotted design, can be worn with a skirt or trousers.
Casual Office Outfit Combinations
For women
Casual and fashionable look: Regular fit jeans in dark blue, paired with a cream silk blouse with embroidery. Complete with a destroyed denim jacket and nude heels. This look is perfect for an office with a less strict dress code.
Feminine and sophisticated look: A black linen pencil midi skirt, with a cream silk blouse with an asymmetric neckline. Add a pastel pink lightweight wool cardigan and black heels. This look is ideal for a presentation or an important meeting.
Summery and fresh look: Beige cotton palazzo pants, paired with a short-sleeved cotton and linen top in pastel stripes. Add a destroyed denim jacket and leather sandals. This look is great for summer.
For men
Professional yet casual look: Khaki chinos, paired with a white cotton shirt and a beige linen blazer. Add a silk tie in a complementary color and a pair of brown leather shoes. This look is suitable for a classic office.
Casual and modern look: Good quality jeans in a dark blue tone, paired with a short-sleeved shirt in colored cotton (for example, a light blue). Add a light leather jacket and sneakers in a neutral color for a modern and fashionable look.
Tips for Different Seasons
Summer
In the summer, it is important to choose lightweight and breathable materials, such as light cotton, linen and viscose. These materials will allow you to be comfortable and cool during hot days. The colors white, khaki and turquoise are particularly suitable for the summer and can be combined with a variety of other pieces. A Hawaiian shirt, chinos and sandals create a casual and summery look, but also suitable for the office. Summery and comfortable look: Pants in gray linen , combined with a navy cotton polo. Add a light denim jacket and leather sandals. This look is perfect for the summer.
Winter
In winter, layering is key to staying warm and comfortable. A sweater, jacket, and scarf are the basic pieces for a winter outfit. It is also important to choose footwear that is suitable for cold temperatures, such as low boots or Chelsea boots. These boots not only keep your feet warm, but also give a refined look to the outfit.
Ideas for Specific Sectors
Creative Industries/Creative Office Outfits
In creative industries, such as advertising, graphics or fashion, you can express your personality through clothing. Streetwear, such as hoodies, jeans and sneakers, can be paired with a touch of class, such as a thin tie. This combination creates a fashionable and creative, but also professional look. It is a perfect choice to show off your personality and creativity during your working days.
Finance & Law/financial clothing
In the finance and law fields, the dress code is generally more formal. A gray blazer , a white shirt, and black pants are classic and safe choices. This combination creates a serious, responsible, and professional look. It is important to remember to maintain a clean and organized appearance, especially during meetings with important clients or during management meetings.
Tech Startups/Startup Outfits
In tech startups, the dress code is generally more casual. An oversized sweater , jeans, and sneakers create a casual chic look that is suitable for the work environment. This combination allows you to be comfortable and relaxed during intensive work days, but also to look fashionable and current. It is a perfect choice to show your personality and your passion for technology.
Mistakes to Avoid
Too sporty/office attire mistakes
When trying to achieve a casual office look, it's important to avoid looking too sporty. Avoid shorts, oversized sweatshirts, or sneakers for no reason. These pieces may be appropriate for a workout or a day out, but not for a work environment.
Bright colors/outfits to avoid at work
Bright colors, like neon or bold patterns, can be eye-catching, but it's important to limit them to one piece. If you wear a piece with a bold color or pattern, make sure to pair it with pieces in neutral, simple colors. This will help you maintain a balanced, professional look.
Dressing casually in the office is about finding a balance between professionalism, comfort, and style. With the right choice of clothing, accessories, fabrics, and colors, you can create a look that fits any work environment. Remember to consider your work environment, choose lightweight, breathable fabrics, and avoid common mistakes.
