How You Dress For Business Casual May Be Holding You Back?

Depending on where you work, Fridays may have been
selected as casual day or your employer may allow business
casual dress everyday. Whatever the case, knowing how to
dress for business casual is very important - it makes the
difference of getting or not getting that next promotion.

People make instant, judgments on your capability, creditably
and intellect, to name a few, simply by how you dress. Your
boss or potential boss is no exception. To make sure you are
not making any dressing mistakes that might be holding you
back in your career, take a look at these business casual
guidelines.

1. Pants: Choose pants that have classic styling, in
solid, neutral colors. The best pant fabrics are those that don't
wrinkle easily and hold their shape.

2. Skirts: The best length for skirts is at the knee.
Choose simple styles that fit well. A good skirt for business
will glide over the hips and will not be tight enough to pull, show
panty lines or ride up. Skirts that have ruffles or an uneven
hem are not professional.

3. Sweaters: Sweaters are less formal that jackets
and are great worn in business casual environments. Sweaters
can be sweater sets or sweaters with simple styling. Avoid
bulky sweaters with large designs or those with big embroidery.
Also avoid low cut sweaters that show cleavage.

4. Blouses: Choose simply tailored blouses in a variety
of colors. Blouses that have a shaped fit are best.

5. Shoes: Enclosed shoes are most appropriate for a
business setting. Sandals are not appropriate for business
settings. Open-toe shoes or that have most of the foot enclosed
and have heels no higher than 21/4-inches are also appropriate.

Business casual is clothing that is tailored enough for business
settings but relaxed enough to be comfortable.

Styles from www.anntaylorloft.com and shoes from www.spiegel.com