Business Attire: The Low Down On It!

When it comes to business attire, there has been so many changes it is crazy!  For instance, back in the olden days, business attire consisted of your Sunday best: jacket, tie, pressed slacks and shiny shoes for men and a tailored suit with a skirt for women.  Now-a-day, it had completely changed and what is acceptable for business attire is more lax.  Suits, while important are next to nonexistent in many offices. 

Have you ever scene The Devil Wears Prada?  Did you notice the change in the styles that Ann Hathaway went through?  Well, that is sort of what we are talking about when we mention that business attire has gotten a complete make over and has turned into something completely different.   What was not acceptable just a few years ago, is now making its way into normal business attire; for instance, sweater sets without a jacket over them, bright colors and even skirts that come just above the knee.

 

During the close of the 20th century, business casual was introduced at the new fashion in business attire and it has taken off immensely since it was introduced.  Business casual is classified as collared shirts, cotton pants paired with some loafers for the men and sweater sets, comfortable slacks or skirts and low heels for the women, skirts above the knee are even being accept.  Business casual, however, does not include jeans or gym shoes and while these two items are not generally included in the business casual category, companies are finding ways to be a little bit more lax when it comes to business casual dress.    

More recently, designers have picked up on the business attire market and have come out with some beautiful things for the business man and woman.  Everything from silk blouses, tweed skirts, button up shirts of many colors and loose-fitting casual business pants.  While designer clothing can become extremely expensive, it is always important for a man or a woman to own at least one complete suit. 

Having one complete business suit will come in handy for job interviews, business-dress day at work or even just to attend parties with clients.  A great suit that compliments your body perfectly is a fantastic addition to your business attire dress and countless designers take the business suit into their own minds.

While many companies are sticking with the lax business attire of casual business, there are still a few companies that expect their associates to be in a suit and tie at all times.  When this is the case, different colored suits matched with ties is a great way to spice up your business attire.  Navy, black, forest green and even white suits are all making their way into business attire fashion, especially on the runway. 

The important thing that you need to keep in mind when you are dealing with business attire is to be professional.  Holes, worn down pants/shirts and thread-bare items are not acceptable in any business environment and will most likely not be tolerated.