Even though we may not work in an office, it doesn’t mean we can’t have a business casual outfit in our wardrobe. You just never know when it might come in handy!
FOR BUSINESS CASUAL, CLASSICS ALWAYS WORK
This kind of goes without saying; but it’s easier to have classics in your wardrobe for a business causal look, than to try to be on trend. Especially if you don’t dress this way on the daily. Navy will never NOT be a corporate color (in my opinion), and it’s a bit warmer overall look than typical black.
NO BLAZER NEEDED
From my own personal experience of working in a corporate environment for 12 years, I defined business casual as upscale, professional, modest, appropriate and represented the job I wanted, not the job I had. Well fitting trousers, blouses, sweaters and some kick ass shoes were definitely a requirement.
BREAKING IT DOWN
In this look, I took a thin knit V neck sweater from Zara. I loved this piece because of the color, the fit and the detailing of the gold buttons on the cuffs. Sometimes bangles or bracelets are forgotten or just feel difficult to wear with a sleeve that’s tight at the wrist. These embellishments add some shine and interest to the outfit.
These navy pin stripe pants are literally 14 years old. Can you even believe that? I bought them at Aritzia, at the West Edmonton Mall after I had Devon, and went back to work. I bought them with their matching blazer and it was the first actual suit I’d ever bought. It was expensive at the time; but I literally felt like nothing had ever fit me better. Now all these years later, I’d say my dollars per wear are down in the fractions of cents! Take care of your good stuff ladies, and it will be there for you any time you need it.
FINISHING THE LOOK
Aside from my very dainty gold and diamond arrow necklace, this streamlined look was finished with my super fun, DOUBLE SIDED belt from Aldo! I love that one side is a neutral snakeskin print (exactly what this look needed to break up the navy!), and the other side is a textured black leather. What other belt does one need?!?! It’s new this year, so if your wardrobe could use something like that, I encourage you to go to your nearest Aldo!
My boots are a pointed toe, plaid that are the fall neutrals, with a subtle burgundy line going through the pattern from Forever 21 (last year). Not overly loud; but since the pant has a wide leg, the pointed toe makes sure my foot isn’t lost. I’m not sure I love the look where the foot completely disappears in the cuff of a pant. Also, you know how I love a line throughout the outfit that lengthens the look. So your eye will go from the V neck, to the belt, down to the pointed toe of my boot, giving me all the pretend height.
And lets not forget that bold pop of color bag. YES GIRL! I earned this one while I was working with Stella & Dot; but can I also encourage you to allow yourself to get a bag that is unexpectedly colorful, and can show off YOUR awesome personality in whatever outfit you pair it with!
WALKING TALL
No matter what your color scheme, patterns or choice of outfit is for business causal or otherwise, girlfriend….walk tall. Be confident. Getting dressed in a well put together outfit, no matter where it is you are going, can give you the confidence you need to throw those shoulders back and look the world in the eye with a smile on your face! You were fearfully and wonderfully made, with a very unique set of gifts and talents. Own them, and there isn’t a darn thing wrong with wanting to look good any, or everyday, along the way!
xoxo Taryn