The 5 dress codes you need to know
As we head back to the office, let’s not let the dress codes slide. Whether you’re an office veteran, joined remotely during Covid, or a new employee, here are the 5 office dress codes you need to know.
I’ll admit, I’ve been spoiled a lot working from home in my athleisure and pajamas but now is the perfect time to revisit the 5 Dress Codes that show up in our workspaces. So no matter if you’re a lawyer, consultant, coder, or new analyst, the dress codes are in place to help us bring our best selves to work. And don’t get it twisted, just because there is a dress code in place, doesn’t mean you can’t bring your own personal style. Start here and then add the things that make you you!
Let’s get to it!
Business Professional
Who: Client facing people, lawyers, accountants, investment managers etc. These are our traditional, old industries. This is Olivia Pope in her Gladiator era.
What to wear: Keep the colors classic and muted (black, white, grey, navy, beige). The same goes for shoes so wear close toe pumps or pointed flats on an off day. This dress code mostly consists of suits galore so blazer or bust here.
Add your flair: Your particular office might be a bit more lenient so test the waters by pairing soft pastels or classic colors (reds and blues) paired with a traditional suit. Play with shapes but lean toward a more tailored options like sheath dresses.
Professional
Who: Broader industries and you might run into the client but there isn’t a set meeting. So have a little fun but keep it neat. Think Molly from Insecure.
What to wear: Stay traditional with colors but incorporate pastels and trendy dresses like this one with a tie and interesting neckline. You can also ditch the blazer here but make sure to balance things out with a traditional shoe or tailored pant.
Add your flair: If you do opt for a blazer, make it a color or simple pattern. Remember, we’re between Business Professional and Business Casual. Too many casual elements will put you out of code so if you want to wear flats, add a blazer and if you opt for say wide-leg pants, add a solid heel.
Business Casual
Who: All other industries mostly end up here. Yes it has the word casual but it’s not the first word so business it up, but have fun. Think Meghan Markle and her love for midi-skirts and the Aquazurra pumps *chef’s kiss*
What to wear: The easiest way to get to business casual is bring in COLOR. I love a monochromatic look or suit separates look with patterns and colors. Knits also work well her especially for the cooler months
Add your flair: I like to bring in more trendy shoes here. I might add in a mule and a blazer or a sandal and a sweater in a neutral tone. Don’t forget your accessories like belts, earrings, necklaces, and watches.
Smart Casual
Who: Non-client facing Corporate and Tech industries. Think Issa Rae on Insecure when she started her business.
What to wear: I LOVE IT HERE! Here you can get away with A LOT when it comes to colors, prints, and flair. Here, I opted for a white collared shirt with this tie, bright pink pants, and non-traditional sandals. Each of these pieces have a little twist to them so consider taking some small fashion risks in this dress code.
Add your flair: I love a good culotte and/or colorful trouser to add in here. Consider different shapes and cuts like cropped blazers or shoes with an architectural heel.
Casual
DISCLAIMER – This is NOT casual for the weekend, but casual for work. You still might run into your CEO or Boss but they won’t look better than you if they’re in shorts and a t-shirt.
Who: Start-up, tech industries, mostly remote/WFH roles. Some of these workplaces even have a no-blazer rule. I don’t have a person for this but let’s get to it.
What to wear: Jeans are great here but no rips, please. Crisp t-shirts, soft fabrics, and sweaters are always welcome as well as flats, sandals and sneakers. There’s a lot of leeway here but be on the watch-out for looking sloppy. Pair a fitted top with a looser bottom or vice versa to prevent that..
Add your flair: I’m not a sneaker gal but the ones that do it, do it well! Don’t shy away from color and stand out shoes but remember it’s all about balance.
