What is Business Casual

• Khaki pants, neatly pressed, and a pressed long-sleeved, buttoned solid color shirt are safe for both men and women. Polo shirts, unwrinkled, are an appropriate choice if you know the environment will be quite casual, outdoors or in a very hot location. This may not seem like terribly exciting attire, but remember, you are not trying to stand out for the cutting edge look, but for your good judgment in a business environment.
  
  
• Shoes/Belt: Leather belt and leather shoes (please, no athletic shoes at receptions).
  
  
• Cost/Quality: You are not expected to be able to afford the same clothing as a CEO. However, do invest in quality that will look appropriate during your first two or three years on the job for a business casual environment or occasions.
  
  
• Details: Everything should be clean, well-pressed, and not show wear. Even the nicest khakis after 100 washings may not be your best choice for a reception. Carefully inspect new clothes for tags, and all clothes for loose threads, etc. (as with interview attire).
  
  
• Use common sense. If there is 10 inches of snow on the ground and you are rushing to an information session right after class and you left home 12 hours earlier, no one will expect you to show up looking ready for a photo shoot---they’ll just be happy you made it. If you show up at an event and realize you are not as well dressed as you should be, make a quick, pleasant apology, then make a good impression with your interpersonal skills and intelligent questions.
  
  
• A briefcase or portfolio is not usually necessary for most business casual receptions or events.

Specifics For Men's Business Casual

• Ties: Ties are generally not necessary for business casual, but if you are in doubt, you can wear a tie. It never hurts to slightly overdress. By dressing nicely, you are paying your host a compliment. You can always wear the tie and discreetly walk by the room where the function is held; if no one else is wearing a tie, you can discreetly remove yours if you have a place for it such as a jacket pocket.
  
  
• Shirts: Long-sleeved shirts are considered dressier than short-sleeved and are appropriate even in summer. Choosing white or light blue solid, or conservative stripes is your safest bet. Polo shirts, (tucked in, of course), are acceptable in more casual situations.
  
  
• Socks: Do wear dark socks, mid-calf length so no skin is visible when you sit down.
  
  
• Shoes: Leather shoes should be worn. No sandals, athletic shoes or hiking boots.
  
  
• Facial Hair: Just as with interviews: Facial hair, if worn, should be well groomed.
  
  
• Jewelry: Wear a conservative watch. If you choose to wear other jewelry, be conservative. Removing earrings is always a safe bet.
  

Specifics For Women's Business Casual

• Pants/Skirts: Women can wear casual pants or skirts. Neither should be tight. For the most business-like appearance, pants should be creased and tailored.  If you are in doubt about the industry “standard”, observe women in the industry on the job, at career fairs, at information sessions, etc.
  
  
• Skirt Lengths: Often vary from season to season. Avoid extreme trends, especially with short lengths and/or high slits. Before choosing a skirt to wear, sit down in it facing a mirror. Be critical and ask yourself if the image is a person who looks appropriate in a business environment.
  
  
• Shirts/Sweaters: In addition to tailored shirts, tailored knit sweaters and sweater sets are appropriate business casual choices for women.
  
  
• Jewelry/Accessories: Wear a conservative watch. Jewelry and scarf styles come and go. Keep your choices simple and conservative. Avoid extremes of style and color.
  
  
• Cosmetics: Avoid extremes of nail length and polish color, especially in conservative industries.
  
  
• Shoes: Shoes should be leather or micro-fiber. Regardless of style, avoid extremes. Make certain you can walk comfortably in your shoes.
  
  
• Hose: Hose are not essential for business casual, but are recommended with shorter skirts and in more formal environments. Trouser socks or knee-high hose are appropriate with slacks.
  
  
• Purse/Bag: A tailored purse is best and one that hangs on your shoulder is often advantageous as it frees your hands for greetings (hand shakes) or holding a beverage. Often, leaving your purse locked in the trunk is preferable if you are uncertain what to do with it.