Your Guide To Every Professional Dress Code You’ll Ever Encounter

Casual

Casual is, well, casual. Jeans, t-shirts, sneakers, and even athletic attire are permitted. While casual dress typically isn't the standard attire for most work environments, a number of startups and community service events suggest casual attire.

Just because you can wear anything, does not mean you should. Be conscious of fit and the message you are trying to send. Simplicity is key.

Keywords: Startups, anything goes, comfortable

Where To Buy: Your closet!

Smart Casual/DFYD – “Dress For Your Day”

Smart casual is becoming a more common dress code for a number of industries, particularly tech companies. Jeans and a cardigan, slacks and a blouse, a simple business dress, and sandals are all examples of smart casual – there are a number of options. Unlike casual attire, it is important to note that sneakers, ripped jeans, crop tops, etc. are not permitted. The primary goal of smart casual is to empower to you dress in a simple (and often budget-friendly) way that lets your work shine.

You can never go wrong with jeans, a blazer, and flats. Your hair and jewelry choices can help accessorize.

Keywords: tech industry, informal networking event, simple

Where To Buy: Marshalls, ASOS, Grana

Snappy Casual/Dressy Casual

Similar to smart casual, snappy casual is just smart casual with "more personality." More vibrant colors, prints, and stylistic choices are typical with snappy casual. More often than not, snappy casual is suggested for day-to-night events and after-work social events.

A quick switch from flats to heels and/or removing a blazer can take you from smart to snappy casual.

Keywords: Happy hour, client social event, pop of color

Where To Buy: ZARA, Express, H&M

Business Casual

If you work in a corporate setting, there's a pretty good chance that your office dress code is business casual. One step down from business professional, business casual often suggests a similar level of formality but allows for more color choices and fabric types. Button-down shirts, blouses, pencil skirts, slacks, business dresses, and blazers are all expected in business casual. Buy practical pieces you can mix and match before your more "fun pieces." Also, shopping off-season is your friend!

Keywords: Business, formal networking event, formal yet flexible

Where To Buy: TJMaxx, New York & Company, Banana Republic

Business Professional/Business Formal

Business professional is the most formal category within professional attire and is often symbolized by a full suit although business dresses, skirts, and slacks are all accepted. While a matching suit is not always necessary, this outfit typically includes a blazer of some form and conservative sleeve/ bottoms lengths. While business formal is considered the norm in many government and legal offices, most professionals own at least one suit/ formal outfit for interviews or presentation purposes.

Fabric quality, tailoring, and your overall finish are very important. Is your suit ironed? Does your dress hug your curves in the right way? Are your heels too high? Think Michelle Obama elegance.

Keywords: Interviews, full suit, traditional colors (black, gray, navy)

Where To Buy: Macy's, Burlington Coat Factory, Ross Dress for Less

Cocktail

Not exactly a workplace dress code, cocktail dress codes can be suggested for a number of formal company or client sponsored receptions, e.g.: seasonal events or launch parties. Unlike business formal or snappy casual, more skin and bolder jewelry pieces can be incorporated. You can never go wrong with a little black dress!

Remember, cocktail party ≠ Girls night. Dress to the nines, but still be ready to impress the CEO if the opportunity presents itself.

Keywords: LBD, company reception, party attire

Where To Buy: Nordstrom Rack, Lulus, JCPenney