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What Is Business Casual? Women’s Guide

What Is Business Casual? Women’s Guide

As women we are actually very lucky when it comes to our work wardrobe.  Even if we are in a corporate environment we can still be creative with how we present ourselves. 

However, it can sometimes be hard to determine what is comfortable and original while still feeling like we are dressing appropriately.  No worries, I am here to help!

Here are some options for interview and career attire that is still chic, fun, and appropriate.

corporate

It is always best to wear a navy pant suit to an interview in a corporate environment. Navy is softer and more approachable than black and a pant suit is the most conservative, especially if you are unsure of the work environment.

NEVER wear tons of jewelry or heavy makeup. It is distracting and takes away from what you are really there for. Also, bring a bag that is big enough for your portfolio or resume folder.

The same rules apply for the first day/week except you can be a little more relaxed.  Feel free to put your creativity into your accessories but don’t go too crazy until you get a good feel of the office environment.

Also, it is best to wear closed-toe shoes unless you know for sure that it is acceptable not to.

Creative

If you are working in an creative office, agency or are self-employed, you can be much more original when it comes to your wardrobe.  However, there is a fine line between being hip and chic and looking like you are wearing your entire closet.

If you love color, you should have fun with it. If you enjoy wearing black everyday, do it.

How you present yourself can actually directly effect your work and can even hint into what it is you do. Just remember that whether we like it or not, first impressions are everything and no matter how individualistic you are, you still want to be successful.

Also, this is one type of field where what you wear on the interview really isn’t that different than what you would wear every day. Just remember to always put your best foot forward by looking clean and presentable.

jeanene

Jeanene Mack is a mother, life and wellness coach, personal stylist and writer who lives in Park Slope, Brooklyn with her 2 lovely daughters, beta fish Donna and pet snail, Victor Slimey.
She has received a BA in Literature and a Masters in Psychoanalysis from Boston University.

She left the mental health field behind to start her own business helping women of all ages become the best version of themselves. She now spends all her time pursuing her dreams of grandeur. For more from Jeanene, see her interview or her 5 Tips on Going from Work to the Playground in Style. To see her styling and wellness services, please visit her her website.