Since I've officially joined the business world, I've been trying out different combinations from my wardrobe to figure out what can and can't be considered "business casual". Luckily for me, my company's culture doesn't specify that I need to dress a certain way, however, when I dress more on the business casual side, I always feel more productive and put together!
My college wardrobe was pretty casual so I'm still searching for pieces to add to my new professional wardrobe but despite not having the perfect professional wardrobe, I've found several ways to easily amp up an outfit to business casual level that I'm calling my business casual outfit hacks!
1. Statement Necklaces
Thank God for this trend! Statement necklaces make business casual outfits so easy. I've actually worn some tee shirts (that I would normally pair with my yoga pants) with statement necklaces and voila - they become business casual ready in a pinch!
2. Ballet Flats
Full Disclosure: heels are not my jam. At 5' 6", I don't necessarily need any additional help in the height department and therefore, don't deem the pain they cause my feet a necessity. Not to mention the fact that I can hardly walk in them and look like a fool when I'm struggling to walk! Flats do wonders by adding a touch of professionalism to an outfit without adding the discomfort heels do.
3. Think Flowy
I have always loved flowy shirts because they help to balance out my bottom heavy body and they hide stomach pooches especially well! :P Lucky for me, flowy shirts fit right in with pre-approved business casual attire. It's as easy as throwing on a cardigan over a nice flowy shirt and you are good to go!
4. Pretty Nails
Despite the fact that sometimes my nails feel like they are on the peripherals of my outfit, I've found that they are incredibly important when it comes to looking and feeling professional! In an office environment, nails are constantly on display - whether you're speaking and gesturing in a meeting or typing away on a keyboard, having your nails painted can make quite the difference!
5. Coffee-in-Hand!
Even if you're not addicted to coffee like I am, carrying some sort of hot beverage in your hand as you're heading to the office somehow pulls an entire business casual outfit together! Plus, it doesn't hurt to have a comforting warm drink to sip on while you're working!
The transition into the business world has definitely been different for me - I'm really starting to miss the days of running around campus between classes! At least the outfit transition into the business casual world has been more fun than stressful :)
How do style your current wardrobe for work? I'd love to see your outfit ideas!
