Dress Up to Dress Down
Effortlessly chic rather than lazy is the goal, and brands like Everlane, Gucci, and Adidas will get you there with a few styling tips
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What exactly is “business casual” in menswear? The term is loose enough to constitute anything from sneakers and jeans, but pointed enough you know a blazer better be in the mix. Yet, for many, it’s still challenging to identify precisely what business casual looks like and even more difficult to do it well.
First, to strip down the term’s complexities, let’s cover what it’s not: Overly dressed, stuffy, and restricting might as well be villains to the business casual look. If you’re about to put on something without room for ease or motion, you’ve already destroyed the concept. First and foremost, comfort takes precedence above all.
Next, think about duality and shape. “Businesscasual gives you a lotof room to focus on silhouettesand fit rather than patterns, colors, and logos that people get too caught up in,” stylist Matt Rossi tells Rolling Stone. For example, if your look’s main staple is a blazer, find something nicely tailored that accentuates shape, but bring it down to earth with jeans and sneakers. Or, if you want to wear loafers, pair them with an oversized graphic tee (french tucked) and pleated trousers to bring in that idea of duality.
Below, we’ve outlined some of our favorite products and how to style them for a business casual look that’s comfortable and effortlessly chic rather than lazy. This guide was built with you in mind, combed by our editors who scoured the internet for business casual attire most loved by customers and experts. We’ve made sure only to include highly-rated products from reputable brands we love and shop from ourselves for the office and beyond.
Best Business Casual Editors’ Picks
- Best Blazer: Topman Double Breasted Suit Jacket, $85
- Best Sneaker: Adidas Samba OG Sneaker, $100
- Best Jeans: Levi’s 559 Relaxed Straight Jeans, $34.75
- Best Sweater: , $48
- Best Loafer: G.H. Bass Larson Weejuns Loafers, $198
- Best Tee: Everlane Premium-Weight Relaxed Crew, $45
- Best Dress Pants: Rhone Commuter Pant, $138
Best Business Casual Blazers
Blazers are your ultimate, not-so-secret weapon here. In any context, they can pull even the sloppiest looks together — Yes, even sweats (my frequent go-to look during New York winters). While your first reaction might be to look for something that naturally imbues a more casual design, I want to challenge the notion with sharply tailored pieces that are opposite and feel more formal.
Although this seems counterintuitive to the objective here, what it does is provide contrast between your otherwise casual style. Look for double-breasted jackets inspired by menswear from the 50s and 60s, which brands like “Oscar de la Renta, Prada, and Balmain still reference,” Rossi notes, and pair them with jeans and a hoodie. Editor’s tip: go one to two sizes up for an unrestricted feel. Editor’s picks
Topman Double Breasted Suit Jacket
Currently available in men’s 38-44
$85$17050% off
Jack Victor Double Breasted Wool Sport Coat
Currently available in men’s 36-44
$523.60$74830% off
J. Crew Ludlow Slim-fit Jacket in English Cotton-Wool
Currently available in men’s 34-46
$348
Topman Skinny Fit Suit Jacket
Currently available in men’s 34-46
$109
Everlane Performance Chino Blazer
Currently available in men’s XS-XXL
$188
Best Business Casual Sneakers
This is where things can be a little tricky because not all sneakers are created equal. While some of your kicks might be rare finds or hard-to-get collectibles, that doesn’t mean those outside of sneaker culture will comprehend them as such. Here is where duality comes in. Pair your sneakers with slacks to balance out the casual nature of them. Or, if jeans are a must, wear a button-down or blazer on top for contrast.Related
Everlane The Tread-Bare Sneaker
Currently available in men’s 4-11
$30
Cole Haan GrandPro Breakaway Leather Sneaker
Currently available in men’s 7-13
$130
Adidas Samba OG Sneaker
Currently available in men’s 6-14
$100
Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt Sneaker
Currently available in men’s 7-15
$99.95
Nike Dunk Low Retro BTTYS Sneaker
Currently available in men’s 8.5-14
$115
Adidas Park Street Sneaker
Currently available in men’s 4-14
$59.88$7520% off
Best Business Casual Jeans
There is no escaping; jeans will always be casual. Even when designed with the highest standards and quality or tailored to perfection, they will always appear too casual in a formal setting. Their history of utilitarian use has stamped them as such; however, that makes them perfect for a business casual look.
If you’re considering donning a pair of denim pants, opt for darker washes, straight legs, and little to no distressing so as not to make them look worn. Pair them with cardigans or button-ups for a polished look or a blazer, which is a surefire way to pull off any pair of jeans.
Paige Lennox Transcend Slim Fit Jeans
Currently available in men’s 29-40
$209
AG Everett Slim Straight Leg Jeans
Currently available in men’s 29-42
Levi’s 559 Relaxed Straight Jeans
Currently available in men’s 29-42
$34.75$69.5050% off
Lucky Brand 221 Straight Jean
Currently available in men’s 29-42
$49.99$9950% off
Currently available in men’s 28-40
$80
Best Business Casual Sweaters
Quiet luxury has died down, but its popularity gave rise to early preppy trends like polos and slacks. This is perfect when discussing business casual because cardigans and sweaters reign supreme for prep.
Don’t be quick to jump for something too brightly colored or patterned, however. There’s a delicate balance when it comes to sweaters and cardigans when discussing the topic of business casual. Solid colors are a great place to start if you’re not sure what to buy, elevating to patterns or textures only when designed in neutral tones like blue, tan, grey, or black.
Everlane Felted Merino Shawl Collar Cardigan
Currently available in men’s XS-XXL
$198
Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
Currently available in XS-XXL
$132$16520% off
Currently available in men’s XS-XXL
$48$8040% off
Everlane Cloud Relaxed Cardigan
Currently available in men’s XS-XXL
$188
Currently available in men’s XS-XXL
$48$8040% off
Best Business Casual Loafers
Luckily, loafers do most of the work regarding business casual, so you don’t have to. They’re shoes designed for formalwear, meaning that even your most casual pair of pants can feel elevated with the right loafer. Shop from a variety of materials like suedes and polished leather.
However, a word of caution. If you live an active life where moving about is deemed a necessity in your day-to-day, look for loafers with a bit of traction. You’ll thank us later.
Gucci Jordaan Horsebit Loafer
Currently available in men’s 6-15
$920
Cole Haan Pinch Penny Slip-On Loafer
Currently available in men’s 7-16
$92.40$16042% off
G.H. Bass Larson Weejuns Loafers
Currently available in men’s 7-13
$175
Sebago Casual Lug-Sole Penny Loafers
Currently available in men’s 5-11
$230
Dr. Martens Adrian Loafer
Currently available in men’s 9-11
$149.95
Best Business Casual Button-Downs and Tees
Don’t be fooled into going too casual with a button-down or tee. Like cardigans, this is a category that needs much consideration and thought before attempting a business casual look.
Opt for neutral colors that seem universally accepted in business attire: shades of blue, grey, tans, or black. If picking out a pattern, stick to standards like pinstripes or a small print. Going with something flashy or brightly colored here might sometimes work, but from a general standpoint, it’s better to stick with what is universally accepted.
Everlane The Heavyweight Overshirt
Currently available in men’s XS-XXL
$98
Van Heusen Dress Shirt
Currently available in men’s 14.5-18.5
$34.99
Buck Mason Cotton Slub T-Shirt
Currently available in men’s S-XXL
$45
Currently available in men’s 17-20
$148
Everlane Premium-Weight Relaxed Crew
$45
Best Business Casual Dress Pants
Dress pants are your bread and butter for unrivaled style. “I think pretty much every fashion house has put out a double pleated wide-leg trouser for the last few decades so there is no going out of style there,” says Rossi. Today, they come in unique styles and newer, not-so-formal silhouettes. Like the blazer, they are key in forming any business casual look and can quickly transform something as simple as the white tee into a fit worthy of both the office and your general life.
Look for neutral colors, specifically browns and blacks, which will go with most of your wardrobe, and cuts like straight or athletic. These will give you more room for movement with some stretch. Finally, always go for pleated pants. Always!Trending
Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit Casual Stretch Khaki Pant
Currently available in men’s 28-42
Currently available in men’s 28-38
$80
Mr. P Tapered Wool Drawstring Trousers
Currently available in men’s 28-40
$255
Rhone Commuter Pant
Currently available in men’s 28-40
$138
Everlane Performance Chino
Currently available in men’s 28-40
$98
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Pride yourself on shopping only the best selections when it comes tofashion? Us too. We are tastemakers dedicated to bringing you the finest in clothing, shoes, and accessories.Shop like aRolling Stoneeditorand check out more of our recommendations.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Business Casual in Menswear
Business casual is a term that is widely used in menswear, but its exact definition can be somewhat elusive. It is a style that strikes a balance between being too formal and too casual, creating a look that is effortlessly chic and comfortable. In this article, we will explore the concept of business casual and provide styling tips using popular brands like Everlane, Gucci, and Adidas.
Comfort Takes Precedence
When it comes to business casual, comfort is key. The goal is to create a look that is both stylish and easy to move in. Avoid overly dressed or stuffy outfits that restrict your movement. Instead, prioritize comfort above all else.
Focus on Silhouettes and Fit
Business casual allows you to experiment with different silhouettes and fits, rather than relying on patterns, colors, or logos. Stylist Matt Rossi suggests focusing on finding well-tailored pieces that accentuate your shape. For example, pair a nicely tailored blazer with jeans and sneakers for a more relaxed look. Embrace the idea of duality by pairing loafers with an oversized graphic tee and pleated trousers.
Best Business Casual Picks
The article provides a list of recommended products for a business casual look, curated by editors who have scoured the internet for highly-rated products from reputable brands. Some of the highlighted items include:
- Best Blazer: Topman Double Breasted Suit Jacket ($85)
- Best Sneaker: Adidas Samba OG Sneaker ($100)
- Best Jeans: Levi's 559 Relaxed Straight Jeans ($34.75)
- Best Sweater: (not specified)
- Best Loafer: G.H. Bass Larson Weejuns Loafers ($198)
- Best Tee: Everlane Premium-Weight Relaxed Crew ($45)
- Best Dress Pants: Rhone Commuter Pant ($138)
Blazers for Business Casual
Blazers are a versatile and essential piece for creating a business casual look. They can elevate even the most casual outfits and provide a polished touch. While you might think to opt for a more casual design, the article challenges this notion by suggesting sharply tailored pieces that create contrast with your overall casual style. Look for double-breasted jackets inspired by menswear from the 50s and 60s. The article also recommends going one to two sizes up for a more relaxed fit.
Sneakers for Business Casual
Choosing the right sneakers for a business casual look can be a bit tricky. Not all sneakers are suitable for this style. To strike the right balance, pair your sneakers with slacks to balance out their casual nature. If you prefer jeans, wear a button-down or blazer on top to create contrast. Some recommended sneakers include Everlane The Tread-Bare Sneaker ($30) and Cole Haan GrandPro Breakaway Leather Sneaker ($130).
Jeans for Business Casual
Jeans are inherently casual, but they can still work for a business casual look if chosen carefully. Opt for darker washes, straight legs, and minimal distressing to avoid looking too casual. Pair them with cardigans or button-ups for a polished look, or add a blazer to elevate any pair of jeans. Some recommended jeans include Paige Lennox Transcend Slim Fit Jeans ($209) and AG Everett Slim Straight Leg Jeans.
Sweaters for Business Casual
Sweaters and cardigans are key elements of a business casual wardrobe. Opt for solid colors or patterns in neutral tones like blue, tan, grey, or black. Avoid overly bright or flashy colors. Some recommended sweaters include Everlane Felted Merino Shawl Collar Cardigan ($198) and Cashmere Crewneck Sweater ($132).
Loafers for Business Casual
Loafers are a versatile shoe option that can elevate any business casual outfit. Look for loafers made from materials like suede or polished leather. If you lead an active lifestyle, consider loafers with a bit of traction for better movement. Some recommended loafers include Gucci Jordaan Horsebit Loafer ($920) and Cole Haan Pinch Penny Slip-On Loafer ($92.40).
Button-Downs and Tees for Business Casual
When it comes to button-downs and tees, it's important to strike the right balance between casual and formal. Opt for neutral colors like blue, grey, tan, or black. Stick to classic patterns like pinstripes or small prints. Avoid overly flashy or brightly colored options. Some recommended options include Everlane The Heavyweight Overshirt ($98) and Van Heusen Dress Shirt ($34.99).
Dress Pants for Business Casual
Dress pants are essential for creating a stylish business casual look. Look for neutral colors like brown and black that can easily be paired with other pieces in your wardrobe. Consider cuts like straight or athletic for more comfort and movement. Pleated pants are always a good choice. Some recommended dress pants include Amazon Essentials Classic-Fit Casual Stretch Khaki Pant ($80) and Mr. P Tapered Wool Drawstring Trousers ($255).
Conclusion
Creating a business casual look is all about finding the right balance between comfort and style. By focusing on silhouettes, fit, and the right combination of clothing items, you can effortlessly achieve this look. The article provides a curated list of recommended products from popular brands to help you build your business casual wardrobe.