Does this outfit work for a business casual setting?
I'm new to this and working on my wardrobe. Any advice would be helpful - thanks
14 Replies
Yes, this looks like a business casual outfit. I think it'd be improved a lot, though, with some other shoes
Gotcha - I've definitely been looking to get different black "dress" shoes since I've had these forever
what styles/brands would you recommend to pair with these kind of dress pants?
I think a derby or loafer would be a good move
another thing to note is that black trousers aren't great for business casual
what brands would you recommend for the derby style under $200?
Meermin or Scolyx if you need to buy new
If you're willing to buy used then Allen Edmonds on eBay are good shoes that can be found for under $100
sweet I'll look for some on ebay 
I felt like the outfit looked like a business casual style trying to be more professional with the black trousers
what would you pair with this color and style shirt for a more business casual look?
I felt like the outfit looked like a business casual style trying to be more professional with the black trousers
what would you pair with this color and style shirt for a more business casual look?I think starting with a lighter colored shirt, like a white or light blue, is easier because it'd create more visually appealing contrast between your jacket and your pants
if you have a white or light blue shirt then gray or brown pants with brown or black shoes would look good
mid gray wool trousers are like the easiest pants ever to wear in business casual
this is a good read that has some example outfits at various formality levels within business casual
Put This On
How To Do Business Casual Without Looking Like a Schmuck
It’s never been harder to figure out how to dress for work. A generation ago, the average office uniform was...
oooo okay I'll keep an eye out for some mid gray tones
Also when I'm looking around at the local thrift stores the two recommened brands I am seeing listed from the #fashion-guides are Ralph Lauren and Brooks Brothers - are there any "cheaper" brands that you like?
I'm trying to build a foundation of shirts without going completely broke haha
for shirts? what's your budget per shirt
yeah for shirts, per shirt I don't want to spend more than $50
For new, check out Uniqlo, J. Crew, L.L. Bean, Spier & Mackay on sale
For used, you can certainly find Brooks Brothers shirts for under 50 per
Gotcha thanks I appreciate it!
For shoes I'd go with a derby/blucher. Lots and lots of options here. Safe and classic would be, like, brown or brownish leather, calf, chromexel, a few others.
I am trying to formulate advice for black trousers. How about this: black is fine for casual, demanded for full on formal, but doesn't work in between.
Eg. Works fine:
Black jeans (denim, waxed denim)
Black jean-cut (cotton, linen, etc)
Black corduroy
Maybe:
Black tweed
Black flannel
Usually no:
Black wool, especially smooth worsted
Black trousers that look similar, ie, smooth, fairly formal looking, wool blends and other blends
Obviously correct: black formal trousers (black tie, white tie)