What is Business Casual Attire?

Among all men’s dress codes, for lack of a better term, business casual has always been one of the most elusive. To begin with, it doesn’t help that there is no clear, black-and-white definition – despite the fact that so many companies have business casual dress codes. 

Even under the same business casual umbrella, some companies lean more “business” and others lean more “casual.” For example, a tech startup is likely to have a much more relaxed dress code, while a finance or legal company may require slacks or collared shirts. 

Then there’s the fact that business attire as a whole changes with each generation. In your grandpa’s days, it was totally unacceptable for men to go to work (or anywhere, really) without a tie and jacket.

When your dad started his career, the only acceptable pants in a business setting were dress slacks. Today, neither of those rules apply. In fact, as more and more people have non-traditional jobs or work in hybrid part-office, part-remote situations, the definition of business casual is blurred even further. 

Perhaps you’re not even sure you fully grasp the concept of business casual attire (who could blame you?). Or maybe you simply want to expand your business casual wardrobe. Either way, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’re explaining what exactly business casual means, giving you style tips, reviewing the must-have business casual items every man should have in his closet, and more. Let’s get into it. 

See more about – Business casual attire for men – 70 relaxed office style ideas

Business casual attire 101

Indeed defines business casual attire as “a code of dress that blends traditional business wear with a more relaxed style still professional and appropriate enough for an office environment.” Sounds about as clear as mud, right?