In most of today’s companies, the dress code is “business casual.” The trouble is, what that term means has changed a lot, leaving a lot of guys looking either clueless or just like everyone else with no individuality. These tips can get you back on fashion track.
Get your cut and sizing right.
The general rule of thumb is that your clothes should fit close to your body, creating a natural-looking silhouette without being too tight. Slim cuts achieve this extremely well. You can use the following as a slightly more specific guide for sizing:
- Make sure the rise of your trousers -the length from the inseam of the crotch to the waistband – doesn’t extend significantly below your actual crotch.
- The cuff of your pants should rest slightly on top of your shoe without bunching. Jeans can go a touch longer.
- Your waistband should sit around the narrowest part of your torso. Jeans can go a bit lower.
- Shirt sleeves should just cover your wrist bone. Jacket sleeves should leave about half an inch of the shirt sleeve cuff exposed.
- Shoulder seams should sit on your body’s shoulder, not down on the upper arm.
- Shirts should be long enough to tuck in at least two inches.
Remember, the expense of tailoring is worth having a wardrobe that actually flatters you!
Embrace layers.
Layering provides the opportunity to mix textures and colors, creating more interest. It also is extremely functional–just take off a layer or add it back for temperature comfort. Your three dressier go-to outer layers will be a slim-sleeved blazer (ideally in navy, like this one from The Idle Man), shorter-cut sport coat (ideally in tweed) and a jacket (ideally narrow-waled corduroy in a warm or muted tone). These garments add shape to your torso. They also look great over a polo or shirt and tie. Sweaters over a dress shirt work, too. Just make sure they are thin, slim-cut and solid in color, and let the cuff of the dress shirt show a little.
For a cardigan, get a relaxed feel by leaving a button or two at the bottom undone, and keep the armholes high. If you want a break from layers or it really is too warm, pick a fitted dress shirt with a creative print and dressier collar.
Mix clothing, shoes and accessories from different styles.
Making one new fashion out of several styles is bold, but it works because all the pieces are things others are familiar with. As an example, you might pair a slightly more rugged-looking boot with dress pants rather than jeans. The key is just to make the colors appropriate for the business setting. Even if you stay within one style, little details like choosing an undershirt that’s not white can make a big statement.
Anchor your look with the right shoes.
The best shoes for business casual include oxfords, derbies, loafers and brogues. Ideally, they should be brown, not black. Go for a pointed rather than square toe, and above all else, no sneakers!
Conclusion
Nailing business casual is within your reach. Layers, mixed styles and sharp-looking shoes are key. If you can get all these things with a slim, comfortable fit, you’ve got fashion gold.
A marketing director and contributing writer to The Idle Man, Alex Outlaw always has one foot in men’s music, fashion and contemporary culture. He likes to share whatever he finds by blogging and posting on social media. Keep on top of the latest on Twitter here.
