3 Business Casual Outfits for Women

Women are faced with far more options when it comes to dressing for work. And, while this is changing slowly as we see more emphasis on men’s creativity with styling with current fashion trends, it’s worth acknowledging that the female experience of shifting styles based on context is far larger than that of the male experience. Here, I’ll review three different ways to style a business casual outfit.

1. Denim

Let’s start with a more casual outfit and build it into a business-appropriate look with all the comfort of a casual outfit. After all, what’s more casual than jeans? Women's high waisted jeans have long been versatile, which means that you can find dark washes, tailored fits, and perfect lengths to bring jeans into the work world. With a classier and cleaner pair of jeans (no ripped jeans at the office, please), you have a great foundation for a balanced look. Pair them with a solid, neutral-colored button-up or blouse and layer a classic or even more oversized blazer on top in a corresponding neutral tone. Add some modern, maybe even patterned, loafers and a well chosen watch, and you, my friend, have an amazing business casual outfit, appropriate for the office and easy to dress up or down for post work plans.

2. Skirts

Everything from pencil to A-line falls into this category. A business casual skirt should be comfortable, so pair it with a comfy blouse that complements the skirt; by this I mean a more flouncy shirt for a structured skirt and a more tailored shirt for a skirt that has more movement.

Skirts tend to connote a more feminine tone, so you might find yourself leaning into that by pairing your look with some delicate layered necklace sets or finer earrings. Accessories make a world of difference in the overall energy of your outfit, so be mindful. You could take a slightly more formal business skirt and blouse look and add a more casual flavor by incorporating brighter jewelry, casual shoes, and a pair of blue light blocking glasses with a quick and easy hairstyle. Similarly, you might reign in a casual look by bringing in a more intentional hairstyle, smaller accessories, and a structured shoe.

3. Slacks

If you work in a professional setting, chances are you own some slacks. Whether you have one tried and true pair for your most formal days or a variety of cuts and colors for each day of the week, slacks are essential for women working in the business world.

One way to make your slacks more casual is to pair them with a button-up, leaving a couple of the top buttons undone and rolling up the sleeves to create a more comfortable fit. Throw on some flats and grab a cardigan or sweater in colder months to add some softness if you need warmth during the day. The oversized garments and untailored look is in right now, but one thing to keep in mind any time we wear a less tailored look is that a fresh-looking face is crucial.

If you show up to work with a slightly oversized and possibly unkempt button-up plus you have bags under your eyes, it creates a very different look than showing up with well-styled hair, dewy skin, and an intentionally looser fitting garment. This is where beauty sleep comes into play or a really good eye cream and skincare routine.

Business casual is a great styling option; it often affords us more comfortable outfits and more creative expression in our work attire. Try the tips above and remember to wear what works for you!