Dress codes bring up quite a bit of uncertainty about what to wear. From offices that have an established business casual dress code to elevated social events, it’s overwhelming planning attire that’s equal parts appropriate and stylish. Not wanting to limit your day-to-day fashion to the dreaded everyday uniform territory, you’re likely in search of how to achieve your perfect look. We’ve got your wardrobe refresh covered with these fun and easy ways to mix casual and professional attire.
Accessories Make the Outfit
With so much focus and time spent on clothing items that fit a certain type of dress code, it’s easy to forget about accessories. An outfit’s just not complete without a great handbag to top it all off. Leave the worn-down bag you’ve had for years in the closet – it’ll still be there for you. Opt for something fun instead, like a crossbody belt bag. Women on the go need a bag that can keep up with them, without sacrificing style. A fun handbag will differentiate your business casual look, providing the perfect finisher to a style that’s uniquely your own.
Mix Up Your Top
No one’s denying the beauty of a neutral top. They go with everything, making them a lifesaver on those days you’re running late and need a quick outfit. However, we could all always go for a new go-to top. Break the mold by incorporating cute casual blouses into your rotation. Texture, color, prints, and other fun details are your friend. Paired with a simple skirt or pants, your casual top will give your professional outfit interest. No need to change when you head to dinner with friends after a day at work.
Don’t Forget the Jewelry
We can’t underestimate just how much jewelry can enhance a business casual look. In a sea of black and white, jewelry makes you shine. Adding jewelry is a fun way to mix casual and professional, without needing to try too hard. Plus, if you’re one to stick to your neutrals, jewelry is your opportunity to play with color and your style. One look at your colorful statement necklace or edgy earrings paired with a crisp white button-down, and your style will be the envy of the office.
Get Comfortable in Sneakers
Shoes have the power to change the entire feel of an outfit. While black pumps are certainly a must-have wardrobe item, if you’re looking to have fun mixing casual and professional attire, you want to consider the unexpected. There are few things more casual and unexpected with professional wardrobe staples than a pair of cute sneakers. This piece of versatile footwear will dress down your outfit, creating a look that’s both fun and comfortable to be in all day. If sneakers aren’t your thing, try a pair of flats or loafers to get the same effect.
Don’t Be Afraid of Color and Prints
Many women shy away from colors in their business attire for fear that they’re not professional enough. Professional attire doesn’t mean that you’re restricted to black, white, blue, and brown. When you’re mixing casual and professional attire, color and prints are more than welcome! Of course, that’s not to say that you need to wear head-to-toe neon pink (unless you can make it work!). Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone and incorporate at least one color or print into each outfit. Play with complementary colors or add a pop of color, like pairing a bold top with your black pants and dressy blazer.
Trends, Meet the Classics
One of the best things about mixing casual and professional attire is the ability to experiment with your style. A skirt or pair of pants combined with a button-down Oxford or blouse will always be a timeless look for women worldwide, but sometimes a lady has to change it up! A fun way to do so is by introducing a trend to your classics or pairing vintage clothes with something new. That could mean anything from wearing a trendy vest with simple pants to wearing a belt in the Pantone color of the year with your little black dress. To avoid going overboard, start by just including one trend per outfit.
Get Mixing and Matching
Mixing casual and professional attire isn’t as difficult as it seems. It all comes down to finding a balance between the two and staying true to your personal style. Every woman is different, and so is the way you approach fashion. If you’re not comfortable with wearing a blouse in a bold color, try a fun accessory instead. Don’t like florals? Find a cute blouse in a print that you do, like polka dots or plaid. Get mixing and matching to find what works for you and your environment!