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How to do business casual well

When it comes to mastering the art of dressing for business, the term "business casual" can be a challenge to unravel. It's a balance between professionalism and comfort, where each item needs to be carefully chosen. We believe in the power of a well-curated outfit, where the jacket serves as the cornerstone for a refined yet relaxed look. Unfortunately, in recent years, we've seen the jacket often overlooked as it was deemed no longer 'necessary'. However, it's the perfect piece to execute the business casual look effectively. A jacket is worn not just for oneself, but also for others, exuding respect, confidence, and professionalism. And remember, jeans are never part of a business casual look.

Never Underestimate The Importance of the Jacket

The jacket is the cornerstone of a formal yet casual look for men. We believe that a well-fitting jacket is the backbone of every outfit. It provides structure to your silhouette and exudes sophistication. Opt for a jacket that fits like a second skin, with precise shoulder lines and a perfect length. Additionally, with a jacket, you have a wide range of style options. Think of broader lapels for a more handsome silhouette and patch pockets for a more casual/sporty look. For a first jacket, go for a nice wool or wool/silk blend in a shade of blue that suits you. You'll derive immense pleasure from it.

Loro Piana hopsack jacket

Fabric Choice and Colours

When choosing fabrics for your business casual jacket, consider materials like wool, wool/silk, or wool/silk/linen blends for summer. These fabrics breathe and keep you comfortable, even during warmer seasons. Opt for neutral colours like navy, grey, or beige for versatility and effortless combinations.

The Perfect Shirt

Under your jacket, the shirt is an opportunity to showcase your personal style. Start with a good basic selection in white and ice blue, then add a light blue or dark blue bengal stripe later. We also find a denim shirt to be a nice option as it sits at the intersection of business and casual. Ensure the shirt fits well with your body shape and that the collar nicely complements the jacket collar. Here, we naturally advise you.

Knitwear

The perfect item for creating comfort is a beautiful sweater in luxurious merino wool or wool-cashmere to wear under your jacket. Especially during the colder days of the year, this looks extremely stylish and thoughtful. We personally like to wear a long-sleeved polo shirt under a jacket and trousers. The nice polo collar stays perfectly in place under the jacket collar, which looks chic. Also, a round-neck sweater under a jacket provides a nice balance, though it's slightly more casual than the polo. Of course, these sweaters are also custom-made by us and tailored.

Trousers and Shoes

For a complete business casual look, pair your jacket with well-fitting trousers. Chinos or dress trousers in neutral colours are always a good and safe choice. Ensure the trousers are neatly pressed and the length falls perfectly, just resting on the top of your shoes; this is the case with all our tailored trousers. Jeans are undoubtedly a staple nowadays, but in our opinion, they're not suitable for business casual looks. Remove the jacket and wear jeans, and there's very little left that exudes any formality. For shoes, opt for classic leather shoes in brown or black that match the formality of your outfit. We prefer a black or dark brown smooth leather penny loafer. Later, a dark brown suede loafer can be added to this.

The Finishing Touch

Accessories add a touch of personality to your business casual look. Opt for subtle details like a braided leather belt, a classic watch or perhaps a silk pocket square for the jacket. Keep accessories minimal and stylish, avoiding overdoing it. Again, 'less is more' applies here.

We understand that business casual is an art that requires subtlety. With the jacket as the starting point of your outfit, you lay the foundation for an effortlessly elegant look that exudes professionalism without sacrificing comfort and style. Choose high-quality materials, perfect fits which we will ensure, and subtle details to define your style and boost your confidence. With these tips in mind, you're ready to conquer the world, one well-dressed step at a time.

Robbie