It all started in the early 90s, when the world as it then was woke up to the importance of image to individuals as well as Organizations, it was then that more flexibility and a display of personal style found its way into dressing in the business world. Before then, everything was pretty much restricted to the strait-jacketed formal look. The business casual look held sway in the business world all through the 90s into the new millennium. For many years and even up till date there still is a silent and unclear issue as to how casual business casual look should be.
Like the saying goes, “when the purpose of a thing is not known, then abuse is inevitable.” What was introduced to create a more relaxed environment has become so relaxed that at times you one is not sure whether they are in a shopping mall or a corporate office. What began as “casual Friday” in some places have become “Casual Monday to Friday”, and in environments where a strict dress code is implemented, e.g. Banks, “Dress-down Friday” has been turned into a serious show of ignorance, since no one has taken the bold step to address this ‘grey’ issue. Most times, I ask myself if management even know where to draw the line?
According to a survey conducted in the United States of America, 90% of the participants claimed that they do not know the difference between Business attire, Business casuals, and Casuals. However, in looking at this closely, the workplace dress code that causes the most confusion is “BUSINESS CASUAL”. At this juncture, the big question should be; what is the way forward? The way forward is to begin to look the part and be determined to command the attention you deserve by making an effort to look professional, irrespective of the dress code. In order to facilitate this, here is a simple guide to how to stepping out in business casual while maintaining class and professionalism in your appearance. Please keep in mind that since I don’t know the dress code guidelines in your office, the following suggestions are largely accepted in most places of work, therefore, it’s your duty to adjust accordingly.
OPTION 1. SUIT AND SHIRT: The easiest way to achieve a business casual look is to wear your complete suit with a Shirt and loose the neck-tie, the shirt could have a regular collar, but I would advice the more trendy shirts with the high rise collars.

OPTION2. SPORTS JACKET/BLAZER AND PANTS:
If you have a sports jacket/ Blazer in earthy tones like brown or khaki, or neutral colors like black or gray, you should be able to match it with a variety of shirts and pants. You can either go more conservative with a plain jacket, or a bit more stylish with tweed or an equally textured fabric.

OPTION3. DRESS SHIRT AND PANTS:
You can choose a simple oxford or dress shirt, or add a stylish touch with French cuffs or patterns like pinstripes or checkered stripes. In the case where your office dress code leans toward the conservative side, then you are free to use your discretion when choosing a patterned shirt; less can be more). As for pants, choose between dress pants, chinos, or Dockers.

OPTION4. TEES AND PANTS: Here, there are various types of T shirts, and they are usually identified with their collars, for instance, (turtle, mock, crew, V, or polo). You are free to choose which you prefer out of these, however, my personal favorite is the Polo neck T shirt. Just like option 3, your choice of pants could be either of these; dress pants, Chinos, or Dockers.

SHOES AND ACCESSORIES:
Oxford Loafers Cap toes Dress Boots
Monk strap
These shoes are appropriate for both Business attire and business casual, depending on how they are combined.