Please note that this post may contain affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward us a small commission – at no extra cost for you.
When you’re told that you can dress business casual to the office or for an event, it’s a bit of a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, you get to prioritize your comfort while wearing some of your favorite casual pieces. On the other, it can be really hard to determine what is too casual and what comes off as a bit much.
That’s why we’re going to take a look at a ton of stylish business casual outfit ideas to help you find that ideal look that keeps you polished and professional without looking too stiff. No matter the season, there’s an idea here that will be perfect for you!
Business Casual Outfit Ideas for Fall
Is there anything more delightful than transitioning from summer’s light and bright clothes to the cozy, chunky sweaters of fall? Here are some timeless business casual outfit ideas to help you stay as comfy and casual as possible this season while still maintaining a chic look.
1. Tailored Blazer and Turtleneck
For a polished fall look that’s neither too formal nor too casual, consider wearing a well-fitted blazer in a rich autumnal shade like burgundy or navy. Pair it with a cozy turtleneck sweater in a complementary color. Combine these with slim-fit trousers or dark jeans for a sleek bottom-half silhouette.
Complete the ensemble with ankle boots or heeled loafers, along with statement earrings and a structured handbag for a touch of elegance.
Want to know how to look expensive, no matter your budget? Check out the fabrics and colors that make everything look more expensive, plus my nine tips to make it look like you spent a fortune even if you’re shopping at a thrift store.
2. Sweater Dress and Knee-High Boots
Another incredible look for fall is to embrace the warmth and style of a knit sweater dress. Opt for one in a solid color or subtle pattern, and layer it with tights or leggings for extra coziness.
Pair the dress with knee-high or over-the-knee boots to keep your legs warm and create a chic, elongated look. Accessorize with a wide belt to cinch the waist, and add a long pendant necklace and stud earrings for a sophisticated touch.
3. Corduroy Pants and Button-Up Shirt
Corduroy pants are a great choice for fall due to their texture and warmth. If you work in a more modest office but want to take advantage of the business casual policy, you can feel 100% confident with that look.
Choose slim or wide-leg corduroy pants in a rich fall hue like deep brown or olive green. Pair them with a crisp button-up shirt in a neutral color to achieve a balanced look. Finish off the outfit with loafers or block-heeled ankle boots, and accessorize with a statement belt and classic watch for a touch of refinement.
4. Poncho and Skinny Jeans
Does your office tend to lean a bit more towards the “casual” side of business casual?
If so, a great way to stay stylish while also being *super* comfortable is with a fashionable poncho or cape in a fall-inspired pattern or color.
You can layer it over dark skinny jeans and add ankle booties or knee-high boots to keep your legs warm without sacrificing style. Underneath, opt for a layered look with a long-sleeve tee or blouse. The perfect accessory for this outfit? Simple yet bold hoop earrings.
5. Trench Coat and A-Line Skirt
A classic trench coat is a timeless choice for fall and never fails to give you that Aubrey Hepburn look. Select one in a neutral color and pair it with an A-line skirt in a warm, autumnal print (remember, keep prints on the smaller side) or solid shade. Add opaque tights and ankle boots to the mix if it’s a particularly chilly day. Tuck in a blouse or sweater for a sophisticated finish, and accessorize with simple stud earrings and a structured tote bag to complete the look.
Though a high-quality wool trench coat can be a bit of an investment, it’s well worth the price. In fact, this is one of the six investment pieces we think every woman should have by the time she turns 50.
6. Knit Cardigan and Midi Skirt
Opt for a chunky knit cardigan in a cozy fall color to create a warm and stylish outfit. Pair it with a midi skirt featuring a sweet print or solid hue. You can take your look to the next level with heeled ankle boots or mules.
For the finishing touches, layer some necklaces and carry a leather clutch for a polished appearance– you’ll hit it out of the park.
7. Tweed Jacket and Slacks
Consider incorporating a tweed or wool jacket in a classic pattern for a touch of elegance into your fall business casual wardrobe. You can then pair it with tailored slacks in a complementary color. Keep your footwear refined with loafers or classic pumps– don’t get too crazy here. Complete the outfit with a silk blouse or button-up shirt to look oh-so-sophisticated, along with pearl accessories and a briefcase-style bag.
8. Pullover Sweater and Wide-Leg Pants
Another option is to embrace the comfort of a cozy pullover sweater in a neutral tone for your fall business casual look. Combine it with wide-leg trousers in a contrasting color to create a balanced silhouette. As far as footwear goes, choose pointed-toe flats or low-block heels. Keep the jewelry minimalistic and carry a tote bag to round off this outfit– it’s the perfect balance between peak comfort and professionalism.
Business Casual Outfit Ideas for Winter
Now that the trees have finally lost their leaves and snow is starting to fall, it’s time to get a little more creative about staying warm and not looking like the Michelin man.
1. Chunky Turtleneck and Wide-Leg Trousers
Opt for a chunky turtleneck sweater when the weather turns cold for a cozy and casual touch. Pair it with wide-leg trousers in a relaxed fit to create an awesome contrast in your silhouette.
To make your outfit a bit more casual, tuck in your turtleneck ever so slightly. Choose comfortable flat ankle boots or loafers for footwear, and add a woven belt for an extra touch of relaxed style. Choose classic accessories like hoop earrings or a simple, delicate necklace to finish things off.
2. Cardigan and Relaxed Slacks
A casual cardigan in a soft knit fabric can work well in a more casual office setting– you can look effortlessly elegant without overdressing with it layered over a basic tee or a lightweight blouse. Pair it with relaxed-fit slacks or trousers, and consider slip-on sneakers or loafers for a comfortable yet stylish look. Accessorize with a leather belt and understated jewelry.
3. Knit Sweater Dress and Leggings
Another great option for a winter business casual look is a cozy knit sweater dress in a relaxed fit. Layer it with leggings or thick tights for extra warmth, and choose comfortable knee-high boots or low-heeled booties. Keep accessories simple with a beanie, knit scarf, and crossbody bag for a more casual and comfortable winter look.
4. Cotton Blazer and Skinny Jeans
A cotton blazer is a versatile option for a more casual business casual look. Pair it with a fitted tee and dark-wash skinny jeans to look effortlessly chic. For footwear, go with ankle booties or low-top sneakers for a laid-back vibe, and consider adding a statement belt and minimalistic jewelry to balance the casual feel.
5. Shirt Dress and Ankle Boots
For a comfortable yet stylish winter outfit, choose a shirt dress in a relaxed fit and layer it over leggings or tights for warmth. Pair with ankle boots with a low heel or flat sole to keep things casual and comfortable.
To add some definition, you can tie a belt or sash around your waist and top things off with a slouchy tote bag and simple earrings.
Business Casual Outfit Ideas for Spring
Ah, spring! The birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming, and your outfits are turning from chunky and warm to bright and light.
1. Light Blazer and Floral Dress
As spring brings milder weather, consider wearing a light blazer in a soft pastel or neutral shade. Layer it over a floral or patterned dress in a knee-length or midi length. Opt for closed-toe pumps or ankle strap heels, and accessorize with delicate jewelry and a coordinating handbag for a fresh and feminine spring look.
2. Trench Coat and Wide-Leg Trousers
A classic trench coat is perfect for spring showers. Pair it with wide-leg trousers in a lighter color with a lightweight blouse or knit top tucked in.
Choose loafers or block-heeled shoes for comfortable and stylish footwear, and add a skinny belt to cinch the waist. To add to your refined yet not-too-overdone appearance, go with minimalistic accessories like a delicate necklace or simple stud earrings.
3. Printed Blouse and Tailored Skirt
Embrace the vibrant colors of spring by wearing a printed blouse with a flattering and modest neckline. When you’re choosing a pattern, stick with something smaller and not too flashy unless you work in a more creative field.
Pair it with a tailored skirt in a solid color that complements the print, and go for pointed-toe flats or low heels. For this look, you can even add a statement necklace or earrings, and don’t forget your structured tote bag to complete the look.
4. Cropped Trousers and Lightweight Sweater
Try cropped trousers in a bright or pastel shade for a more relaxed yet highly stylish spring outfit. Pair them with a lightweight sweater or a knit top, and choose some stylish sneakers or slip-on loafers for a casual touch. Accessorize with a woven belt and minimalistic jewelry, and you will be the poster child of that super-comfortable yet still incredibly put-together look.
5. Wrap Dress and Sandals
A wrap dress is a timeless choice for spring that is seriously flattering for all body types. Select one in a solid color or a subtle print– the silhouette here is so classic that you don’t want to distract people with a pattern or print that’s too loud.
Pair it with strappy sandals in a complementary tone, and you can even add a wide-brimmed hat and a tote bag to achieve next-level chic. To complete this perfect spring look, go for some minimalistic jewelry and sunglasses.
6. White Blouse and Chinos
Are you struggling to find the right business casual outfit for spring? If so, you seriously cannot go wrong with a crisp white blouse and chinos in a lighter color. Your look will come off as clean and comfortable every single time.
For footwear, choose espadrilles or classic ballet flats. Accessorize with a skinny belt, stud earrings, and a crossbody bag for a relaxed yet professional spring outfit.
7. Pleated Skirt and Cardigan
A pleated skirt adds a touch of elegance to your spring wardrobe. Pair it with a lightweight cardigan in a coordinating color, and choose low-heeled pumps or ankle boots for comfortable footwear. Accessorize with a statement belt and simple jewelry to look both polished and comfortable at the same time.
Business Casual Outfit Ideas for Summer
Business casual in the summer presents its own unique challenges– how to stay cool without crossing the line into inappropriately casual? Here are some ideas to let the breeze hit your skin without feeling underdressed for the obvious.
1. Lightweight Blouse and Linen Trousers
Opt for a lightweight blouse in a soft color or subtle print in the summer heat. Pair it with breathable linen trousers in a coordinating shade and tuck in the blouse to keep the look polished.
Regarding shoes, pick out some comfortable block-heeled sandals or closed-toe wedges. To complete the look, add some delicate jewelry and a structured tote bag to look ultra chic, no matter the temperature.
2. Sleeveless Shift Dress and Sandals
Stay cool and stylish with a sleeveless shift dress in a vibrant summer hue or a playful print. For footwear, choose comfortable sandals or espadrilles.
If you want to take things to the next level, accessorize with a wide-brimmed sun hat and oversized sunglasses to add a touch of subtle sophistication, and carry a woven clutch bag with simple and minimalistic jewelry to create a charming summer outfit.
3. Short-Sleeve Blazer and Cropped Pants
Another cute idea for summer business casual involves a short-sleeve blazer in a light fabric as a versatile summer layer. Pair it with cropped pants in a complementary color for a balanced look. Opt for pointed-toe flats or low-block heels to stay comfortable, and accessorize with a skinny belt and understated jewelry to look breezy and polished.
4. Printed Wrap Skirt and Knit Top
Embrace summer’s playful spirit by wearing a printed wrap skirt in a cheerful pattern. Pair it with a lightweight knit top in a coordinating color and dress it up with strappy sandals or down with casual (yet stylish) sneakers. To finish off your look, accessorize with a woven belt and statement earrings.
5. Cotton Shirt Dress and Espadrilles
A cotton shirt dress is a comfortable and classic choice for summer. Wear it in a solid color or subtle print and pair it with espadrilles to give off that effortless summer vibe. For your walk to the office, don a stylish sun hat and oversized glasses, and finish off your look with a canvas tote bag and simple jewelry.
6. Tailored Shorts and Blouse
In the height of summer, tailored shorts can *sometimes* be a suitable choice for business casual attire. You’ll want to read the room before you wear shorts to the office, but this is going to be more or less acceptable depending on your office culture and industry.
If you do go this route, pair them with a lightweight blouse in a coordinating shade and stick with feminine and delicate footwear like comfortable low-heeled sandals or peep-toe flats. Accessorize with a skinny belt and simple jewelry to come off as comfortable yet professional and polished.
7. Sleeveless Jumpsuit and Wedge Sandals
A sleeveless jumpsuit in a solid color or subtle print is a chic and comfortable option for summer, particularly in more relaxed or creative offices. Choose wedge sandals or heeled espadrilles for added height, and accessorize with a statement necklace and a structured handbag for a touch of sophistication.
8. Pleated Culottes and Knit Tank
Another fun option for the summer in more casual offices is to stay cool and stylish in pleated culottes in a light fabric. Pair them with a knit tank top for comfort and to create a balanced silhouette. Opt for slip-on mules or low-block heels for easy movement, and accessorize with a woven belt and a simple necklace or earrings.
Wondering what you should wear once the workweek is over when you’re hanging out with the girls? Check out our list of chic fall brunch outfits you’ll want to wear this weekend!
