The business casual dress code is a tricky one. In 2025, more companies are upping the office days, which means mandatory dress codes more days of the week. But in an era where the lines of what is and more importantly isn’t appropriate are blurred, things get complicated.
In the past, officewear was very strict and very traditional. But during the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, companies began to lighten up. This gave birth to what we now know as ’business casual.’ And yet even to this day, it can still be pretty confusing, to the point that the term seems like an oxymoron all on its own.
That’s why we sat down with the team at Moss, Reed Recruitment CEO James Reed, and Indeed’s head of talent intelligence Danny Stacy to understand what the business casual dress code actually is – and it’s a lot.
What is the business casual dress code?
Generally speaking, business casual involves wearing clothes that are more casual and contemporary, rather than classic and conservative. While it’s definitely more easy-going compared to the workplace dress codes of yore, you still need to look professional. So you can save that graphic T-shirt for the weekend.
“Online searches for business casual have skyrocketed by 108 per cent and 186 per cent for business casual suits,” says Moss. “These statistics maybe reflect the uncertainty surrounding what to wear, and a new appetite to smarten up. Weekday dressing is no longer limited to business suits alone. It now spans the entire formality spectrum, encompassing business casual and casual alike. Those who worked from home during the pandemic, or still do now, have no intention of compromising on comfort; as they make their way back to the office however, the desire to create a versatile wardrobe that adapts to the demands of the modern workplace is evident.”
If you want to play it safe, rocking up in a suit still works. However, just in case the office busybody thinks out loud about black suits being only for funerals, go for a navy, brown, or even an olive suit instead. It’s sharp and versatile, and it’s the perfect combo if you’ve got a financial review at 4 and a hot date at 6. If you do go for a black suit, wear a white tee or jumper underneath to chill things out.
Try and stay away from standard suit materials and opt for something a little more out of the ordinary. Check out blazers made of wool or choose a different texture like corduroy. There are even suits out there that are finished with a water-repellent nano coating, so there’s plenty for you to pick from. You may even want to pair these with a denim shirt or a knitted or leather tie. Go wild, friend.
Want to stray away from suits? Then grab yourself a quarter-zipper and layer it on top of a dress shirt. If you think that you might get too cold, throw on a check overshirt, a merino cardigan, or an Italian jacket. Your Monday morning stand-ups are about to get a lot spicier.
What is the point of the business casual dress code?
Business casual gives you more flexibility than classic business attire, where you’re limited to a dark coloured suit and not much else. “It also supports a professional yet relaxed atmosphere, helping employees feel comfortable and focused while maintaining a polished look,” says Indeed’s Head of Talent Intelligence Danny Stacy. “While formal items like ties are optional, subtle colours or patterns can be incorporated. A good approach is to start with classic staples – trousers, skirts, blazers, and button-down shirts – and adapt based on the workplace culture and expectations.”
How has business casual changed and evolved?
Business casual has changed and evolved, just like the office has changed and evolved. “It has certainly become less business, and more casual, and it has become harder to interpret. The distinction between business casual and business professional traditionally lies in whether or not a jacket is worn,” says chairman and CEO of Reed recruitment James Reed. “Business casual suggests that no jacket is needed; a shirt with a collar and a jumper is acceptable. Conversely, business professional implies that a jacket should be worn.”
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