Want to know the dos and don’ts of business casual style? This in-depth guide has all the answers you need.

Most modern day workplaces are loosening up their dress codes. Gone are the days when men are required to wear a suit and tie to work every day.

This is great news for most guys. After all, a full suit and tie isn’t exactly the most comfortable outfit, especially during warmer seasons.

But this shift has also left many men scratching their heads and wondering, “What should I wear to work today?”

Sure, a suit and tie might not be the most comfortable outfit. But at least it makes getting dressed relatively straightforward.

You just wear a suit. And a tie.

Business casual, on the other hand, is just…confusing.

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It’s like when the invitation to your cousin’s wedding says the dress code is Summer Beach Semi-Formal Casual Cocktail Attire…

What in the hell does this mean, KAREN?

But fear not! If you read this guide to the end (or even just skim through it), you’ll have a clear understanding of what to wear in business casual environments.

Too Long, Didn’t Read

At a minimum, here’s what you need to know:

• No suits
• No shorts
• No jeans (unless you manager gives the OK)
• No t-shirts
• No polos (usually)
• No sneakers
• No sandals or flip flops (obvi)
• No casual boots
• Dress boots are okay
• Ties are not required
• Tucked in shirts, always
• Blazers/sport coats are always okay

Stick with these rules, and you’ll be good to go. If you want to really master the business casual look, read on…

A Brief History of the Business Casual Dress Code

If you look at the entire history of menswear in Western civilizations, business casual is a relatively new concept.

Up until the early 1960s, men didn’t wear casual clothing to the office, even on Fridays. Casual wear was only worn at home during evenings and weekends.