20 Work Outfits For Women In A Business Casual Office
No matter the office style, deciding what to wear to the office shouldn’t cost a fortune.
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Even though many jobs have converted to remote-only offices, there are even more women who are returning to the office—or envisioning one in the future—and need to revamp their wardrobe. After months of sweatpants and leggings, staring into your closet might feel a bit intimidating. What can you wear that is both comfortable and work appropriate? Plus, the idea of shopping for new office outfits—or updating your existing workwear wardrobe—feels incredibly daunting.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to the perfect outfit for work. But, the best workwear wardrobe needs to include items that complement your body type and suit the kind of office environment you're working in. But, no matter the office style, deciding what to wear to the office shouldn’t cost a fortune. In fact, we argue that there are only six true essentials that you need to create a workwear capsule wardrobe.
Whether you're looking for a work wardrobe that's professional or business casual, here are some tips on how to dress for your workplace and fit your personal style, all while staying on budget.
What Are the Different Styles of Work Appropriate Clothes?
There are a lot of different kinds of work environments. Finding the appropriate clothes for your office all depends on what your workplace is like. If you're working in an office, it's important to be aware of the dress code policy. You don't want to show up for job interview looking like you just got off the runway! (Or, maybe you do, but that’s another story.)
What is Formal Business Attire?
Formal business attire is a suit and tie for men. When considering professional clothes for women, it's a good idea to wear either a pant-suit or a dress that reaches the knee or just above it. You always want to be wearing formal, closed-toe shoes like pumps, loafers, or flats. Hair must be neat and out of your face, with minimal jewelry or accessories.
What is Business Casual?
Business casual is the "middle-ground" between formal business attire and casual work clothes, a style often referred to as ‘dressy casual’ or ‘smart casual.’ If your office has a business casual dress code, then there are more options on what you can wear. Most offices will fall into a business casual environment, so following these rules will allow you to transition work clothes to new office environments if you were to switch roles or jobs, entirely.
While business casual is more relaxed than formal attire, it errs more on the side of ‘business’ and less on the side of ‘casual.’ A simple question to ask yourself when considering business casual outfits: Does this feel professional?
What Clothing Is Considered Business Casual for Women?
Blazers: A black, grey, or tan blazer can be a staple in your wardrobe, perfect as a jacket or layering piece.
Trousers: A tailored pair of pants—wide leg, slim fit, or cropped—will be in frequent rotation in your closet.
Skirts: Modest skirts, such as knee-length
Blouses: An assorted variety of solid colors, patterns, or fabrics allow you to mix-and-match your wardrobe. While bright colors at work can be appropriate, make sure to include neutral colors, such as white, tans, or blacks. Always be sure to check with your company’s dress code to see if short sleeve or sleeveless tops are appropriate.
Sweaters: Lightweight knits or cardigans can be ideal for working in office, especially in the summer air conditioning.
Shoes: Heels should be closed toe and comfortable to walk in (read: an appropriate heel height). Flats, such as loafers or mules, can be a simple choice.
What Clothing Is Not Considered Business Casual?
While the rules are more flexible in the business casual style of dress, it’s important to avoid anything too relaxed or informal.
Items to avoid include:
Leggings, yoga pants, joggers, or similar
Shorts
Pajamas
Overly distressed, faded, or destroyed fabrics
Jeans (unless specified)
Graphic tees
Sandals, flip flops, or open toed shoes
Mini skirts
Low cut or revealing clothing
Sneakers (unless specified)
What is Casual Attire?
Casual work clothes are the complete opposite of formal business attire. It's best to go with jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers for casual work outfits— no suits and ties here! If the company is more laid back and allows for a more casual atmosphere, then you're not going to want to show up wearing a dress pants and blouse, but it's still probably best if you didn't wear ripped jeans, either.
If the dress code is casual, then you have a lot of different options available to you. This can be anything from jeans and a nice top to a nice pair of trousers with a blouse. If others in the office tend to wear business casual outfits during regular work hours, however, this may be a simple sign to make sure to avoid being too casual.
Can I Wear What I Want?
There are some places where whatever you wear is fine as long as you're wearing it. This may be a college environment where you really can wear whatever you want as long as it's not too revealing or see-through. However, that doesn’t mean that you should. Allow yourself to express your unique fashion style with your work clothes, while still ensuring that you present yourself in the best possible manner.
To avoid confusion, most places will let everyone know what the dress code is before they ever go in. This makes it super easy to find out ahead of time so you can fit your work wardrobe around it.
How to Dress for a Job Interview
Job interviews are one of the most important aspects of working anywhere. While you want to make sure that you look great and feel confident going into your meeting, but it's also important to be yourself. However, just like creating a work wardrobe around your office attire, there are a few tried and true rules to follow when it comes to interviewing for the job that you want.
What Do I Wear for a Job Interview?
For your interview, the best course of action is to research the company ahead of time. This ensures that you will wear something that fits in with the company’s culture and is appropriate. If you have only had casual attire jobs in the past, you don’t want to assume that a new job will be, too!
If you do not have many workwear outfits in your closet, create one go-to interview outfit. This should be professional looking, such as a structured blazer and a blouse, paired with a nice pair of trousers or skirt.
What Not to Wear For Your Job Interview
Whether consciously or unconsciously, you are constantly being examined by those you work for and those that you work with. Your outward appearance can portray the importance that you place in minor details—such as if your shirt is tucked in—or the extra step taken to have a clean, pressed shirt. Each tiny detail can be a factor in your interview, just as much as the qualifications on your resume.
No matter what style of office attire is acceptable, there are still going to be certain items that you aren't going to want to wear for your interview. Your interview is often the first (and only) time that you have to impress your future employer so you need to make the most of it.
Items to Avoid Wearing to An Interview:
Leggings, yoga pants, joggers, or similar
Shorts
Pajamas
Overly distressed, faded, or destroyed fabrics
Dirty or stained clothing
Clothing with loud or visible logos
Overly trendy items, such as bright, distracting colors or loud prints
Graphic tees
Sandals, flip flops, or open toed shoes
Mini skirts
Low cut or revealing clothing
Is There a "Perfect" Work Outfit?
No! There is no "perfect" business casual outfit for the office because it's all about finding the right fit and comfort level for the environment you're working in. Just as there is no one-size-fits-all equation for each style of dress, each office will vary, too. What matters most is that your workwear wardrobe is a reflection of your personal style and makes you feel confident when entering the office.
6 Business Casual Essentials For Women To Create The Best Work Outfits
The perfect work wardrobe is all about choosing items that fit your body type and the environment you're working in. You want to be comfortable, but it's also important for you to put together an outfit that will look professional. However, workwear—even business casual pieces—can quickly add up. Even though many of us work Monday through Friday, it’s unlikely that we need an extensive wardrobe for our job. By creating work outfits around these six key workwear staples, you can build a capsule wardrobe that will provide endless looks, while saving you money.
What Your Work Wardrobe Should Consist Of
The following six business casual essentials should create the foundation of your work wardrobe:
A pencil skirt (more formal) or midi skirt (more casual)
A blazer or jacket
A basic, neutral colored dress
Tailored pants
Dressy shoes that are comfortable for walking in
Solid-color dress shirts
Why Did We Choose These Business Casual Outfits?
Each of these pieces are great on their own because they will flatter most body types. Business casual shoes, black blazers, dress pants, shirts, and long pencil skirts are classic wardrobe pieces that will fit most business dress codes. And, if you put them together in the right way, you can create an extensive list of business casual work outfits quickly and easily each morning. Not only does this take the stress and hassle out of finding an office outfit to wear each day, but who doesn’t love to save money at the same time?
Business Casual Outfit Ideas for Women
Shop: Blazer | Dress | Heels | Bag | Hoops | Watch
Simple and chic, this sheath dress is form fitting, yet completely professional. The line detailing at the waist creates a tailored shape, while pumps and gold accents finish the look. The black blazer can be worn with or without the dress, depending on the style of your office.
Shop: Blazer | Blouse | Earrings | Skirt | Boots
An easy to pair black and white outfit features a plaid pencil skirt, sleeveless white shirt and tailored black blazer. Paired with black boots, this look can be easily worn throughout the colder months, or the boots could be swapped in spring and summer for heels or sandals.
Shop: Blazer | Pants | Shirt | Earrings | Bag | Boots
The pant suit is one business casual look that will never go out of style. Simply pair a tailored trouser with a blazer and change out the color or style of shirt underneath. Black boots are a versatile shoe underneath that is chic, yet comfortable for everyday wear.
Shop: Coat | Shirt | Skirt | Earrings | Bag | Heels
A great combination for winter, this grey coat is stylish over a blouse with a pencil skirt. The tweed gives the skirt detail and texture, while the heels and bag are simple accessories that don't take away from the entire look (and can be easily styled with casual outfits, too!).
Shop: Blouse | Trousers | Earrings | Bag | Watch | Loafers
A unique twist on the standard short sleeve blouse, this tie front shirt has detailing around the neck and sleeves, giving it a wholly feminine look. Finish it off with a pair of black faux snakeskin loafers, and it's workwear ready for the office.
Note: This work outfit is a great business casual idea for summer, but during cool months, simply add your favorite jacket on top.
Shop: Blouse | Coat | Trousers | Bag | Earrings | Boots
Another detailed top that provides interest to a business casual outfit, this puff sleeve blouse can be paired on its own or with a jacket over top. Simple trousers, black boots, and a tote (perfect for storing laptops and files) complement the entire look. A wool coat is another fall and winter work wardrobe staple that you need in your closet!
Shop: Trench Coat | Dress | Watch | Bag | Heels
Who says that you only need one gorgeous, yet simple, sheath dress? If sleeveless is not acceptable within your office dress code, pair the look with a lightweight cardigan or sweater, blazer, or fitted jacket. A pair of slingback heels are a great option for the dress, but a pair of nude pumps would work equally well. A khaki trench coat is another outerwear item that could be a perfect addition to any capsule wardrobe--whether for work or casual wear.
Shop: Coat | Sweater | Trousers | Bag | Mules
You can never go wrong with a look full of warm neutrals. Even though this is a fall inspired outfit, this can be worn throughout the cooler months of spring and winter. Mules, wide leg trousers, and a lightweight crewneck sweater (or turtleneck) are all items that we would highly suggest adding into any capsule wardrobe for the office. A leather tote makes for a great work bag, big enough for file folders, note pads, and laptops.
Shop: Blazer | Blouse | Skirt | Heels | Earrings | Tote
Another classic business casual outfit idea (this also works well for business professional attire, too!) pairs a pencil skirt with a white blouse and a structured black blazer. A purse in a bold color adds an unexpected surprise, while the diamond studs are another classic jewelry item that can be worn every day (and with any outfit).
Shop: Shirt | Trousers | Boots | Belt | Bag | Watch
For those that prefer trousers, these grey wide leg pants are a staple when it comes to creating a business casual outfit. And, we can't say it enough: a white blouse is an absolute staple in any workwear wardrobe and helps to create a wide variety of outfits, no matter the season.
Shop: Blazer | Shirt | Trousers | Earrings | Mules
A neutral work outfit--in shades of brown, tan, or khaki--can be a welcome change from the traditional dark hues of navy or black. If you're dressing for summer business casual attire, consider investing in a linen blazer. The fabric is lighter and more breathable for hot temperatures, but just as appropriate for the dress code at the office.
Shop: Trench Coat | Shirt | Trousers | Mules | Tote
An olive green tapered pant pairs well with the other neutral colors in the outfit for a light, airy feeling. While we styled this outfit with tan mules, you could always consider a pair of nude pumps if you want to increase the dressiness of the outfit.
Shop: Trench Coat | Blouse | Skirt | Bag | Heels
If you want to add a bit of romantic flare into your work wardrobe, this wrap blouse is a bodysuit that accentuates the waist when paired with a pencil skirt. If you want to style this top in a more "dressy casual" manner, you could wear it with wide leg pants (in dark blue or black!) or even with blue jeans (if you're headed out afterwards or your office has a Casual Friday dress code).
